Communication system

Abstract

A communication system according to the present invention includes: a base station corresponding to a fifth generation radio access system; and a communication terminal connected to the base station. The communication system performs sensing processing by using a sensing beam between a transmission base station which is a base station for transmitting a sensing resource and a reception communication terminal which is a communication terminal for receiving the sensing resource. The communication terminal for performing beam management processing for sensing measures a sensing resource set comprising one or a plurality of sensing resources corresponding to a candidate for a sensing beam, and transmits the measurement result to the transmission base station. The transmission base station determines a sensing beam on the basis of the measurement result, and notifies the reception communication terminal of the determined sensing beam.

Description

communication systems

[0001] The present disclosure relates to wireless communication technology.

[0002] The 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP), a standardization organization for mobile communication systems, is considering a fifth-generation (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "5G") wireless access system as a successor to Long Term Evolution (LTE) and Long Term Evolution Advanced (LTE-A), one of the fourth-generation wireless access systems (see Non-Patent Document 1) (for example, Non-Patent Document 2). The technology for the wireless section of 5G is called "New Radio Access Technology" ("New Radio" is abbreviated as "NR"). The NR system is being studied based on the LTE system and the LTE-A system.

[0003] For example, in Europe, an organization called METIS has compiled 5G requirements (see Non-Patent Document 3). The requirements for a 5G wireless access system are that it must have 1000 times the system capacity, 100 times the data transmission speed, one-fifth the data processing delay, and 100 times the number of simultaneous connections of communication terminals compared to an LTE system, while also achieving further reductions in power consumption and cost reductions for the equipment (see Non-Patent Document 3).

[0004] In order to meet such demands, 3GPP is currently studying 5G standards (see Non-Patent Documents 4 to 23).

[0005] The NR access method uses OFDM (Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing) in the downlink direction and OFDM and DFT-s-OFDM (Discrete Fourier Transform-spread-OFDM) in the uplink direction. Also, like LTE and LTE-A, the 5G system does not include circuit switching and is only a packet communication method.

[0006] NR allows the use of higher frequencies than LTE in order to improve transmission speeds and reduce processing delays.

[0007] In NR, which may use higher frequencies than LTE, cell coverage is ensured by forming a narrow beam-shaped transmission and reception range (beam forming) and changing the direction of the beam (beam sweeping).

[0008] The decisions made by 3GPP regarding the frame structure in an NR system, as described in Non-Patent Document 1 (Chapter 5), are explained using Figure 1. Figure 1 is an explanatory diagram showing the structure of a radio frame used in an NR communication system. In Figure 1, one radio frame is 10 ms. The radio frame is divided into 10 equally sized subframes. The NR frame structure supports one or more numerologies, i.e., one or more subcarrier spacings (SCSs). In NR, one subframe is 1 ms long, and one slot consists of 14 symbols, regardless of the subcarrier spacing. Furthermore, the number of slots included in one subframe is one when the subcarrier spacing is 15 kHz, and the number of slots at other subcarrier spacings increases in proportion to the subcarrier spacing (see Non-Patent Document 11 (3GPP TS38.211)).

[0009] 3GPP's decisions regarding channel configuration in NR systems are described in Non-Patent Document 2 (Chapter 5) and Non-Patent Document 11.

[0010] A physical broadcast channel (PBCH) is a channel for downlink transmission from a base station device (hereinafter sometimes simply referred to as a "base station") to a communication terminal device (hereinafter sometimes referred to as a "communication terminal" or "terminal") such as a mobile terminal device (hereinafter sometimes simply referred to as a "mobile terminal"). The PBCH is transmitted together with a downlink synchronization signal.

[0011] Downlink synchronization signals in NR include a primary synchronization signal (P-SS) and a secondary synchronization signal (S-SS). Synchronization signals are transmitted from base stations as synchronization signal bursts (hereinafter sometimes referred to as SS bursts) at predetermined intervals and for a predetermined duration. SS bursts are composed of synchronization signal blocks (hereinafter sometimes referred to as SS blocks) for each beam of the base station.

[0012] The base station transmits the SS block of each beam by changing the beam during the duration of the SS burst. The SS block consists of the P-SS, S-SS, and PBCH.

[0013] The Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH) is a channel for downlink transmission from a base station to a communication terminal. The PDCCH carries downlink control information (DCI). The DCI includes resource allocation information for a Downlink Shared Channel (DL-SCH), which is one of the transport channels described below, resource allocation information for a Paging Channel (PCH), which is one of the transport channels described below, and Hybrid Automatic Repeat reQuest (HARQ) information related to the DL-SCH. The DCI may also include an uplink scheduling grant. The DCI may also include an acknowledgement (Ack) / negative acknowledgement (Nack), which is a response signal to the uplink transmission. In addition, in order to flexibly switch between DL and UL within a slot, the DCI may include a slot format indication (SFI). The PDCCH or the DCI is also called an L1 / L2 control signal.

[0014] In NR, a time-frequency region that is a candidate for including a PDCCH is provided. This region is called a control resource set (CORESET). A communication terminal monitors the CORESET and acquires a PDCCH.

[0015] The Physical Downlink Shared Channel (PDSCH) is a channel for downlink transmission from a base station to a communication terminal. The Downlink Shared Channel (DL-SCH), which is a transport channel, and the PCH, which is a transport channel, are mapped to the PDSCH.

[0016] The Physical Uplink Control Channel (PUCCH) is a channel for uplink transmission from a communication terminal to a base station. The PUCCH carries uplink control information (UCI). The UCI includes Ack / Nack, which is a response signal to a downlink transmission, CSI (Channel State Information), a scheduling request (SR), and the like. The CSI is composed of a Rank Indicator (RI), a Precoding Matrix Indicator (PMI), and a CQI (Channel Quality Indicator) report. The RI is rank information of a channel matrix in MIMO (Multiple Input Multiple Output). The PMI is information on a precoding weight matrix used in MIMO. The CQI is quality information indicating the quality of received data or the quality of a communication path. The UCI may be carried by the PUSCH, which will be described later. The PUCCH or UCI is also called an L1 / L2 control signal.

[0017] The Physical Uplink Shared Channel (PUSCH) is a channel for uplink transmission from a communication terminal to a base station. The Uplink Shared Channel (UL-SCH), which is one of the transport channels, is mapped to the PUSCH.

[0018] A physical random access channel (PRACH) is a channel for uplink transmission from a communication terminal to a base station. The PRACH carries a random access preamble.

[0019] A downlink reference signal (RS) is a known symbol in an NR communication system. The following four types of downlink reference signals are defined: a demodulation reference signal (DM-RS), which is a UE-specific reference signal, a phase tracking reference signal (PT-RS), a positioning reference signal (PRS), and a channel state information reference signal (CSI-RS). Measurements of the physical layer of a communication terminal include reference signal received power (RSRP) measurement and reference signal received quality (RSRQ) measurement.

[0020] Similarly, the uplink reference signal is a known symbol in an NR communication system. The following three types of uplink reference signals are defined: a data demodulation reference signal (DM-RS), a phase tracking reference signal (PT-RS), and a sounding reference signal (SRS).

[0021] The transport channels described in Non-Patent Document 2 (Chapter 5) will be described below. Among the downlink transport channels, a broadcast channel (BCH) is broadcast to the entire coverage of the base station (cell). The BCH is mapped to a physical broadcast channel (PBCH).

[0022] Retransmission control using HARQ is applied to the Downlink Shared Channel (DL-SCH). The DL-SCH can be broadcast to the entire coverage of the base station (cell). The DL-SCH supports dynamic or semi-static resource allocation. Semi-static resource allocation is also called semi-persistent scheduling. The DL-SCH supports discontinuous reception (DRX) in communication terminals to reduce power consumption of the communication terminals. The DL-SCH is mapped to the Physical Downlink Shared Channel (PDSCH).

[0023] The Paging Channel (PCH) supports DRX of communication terminals to enable low power consumption of the communication terminals. The PCH is required to broadcast to the entire coverage of the base station (cell). The PCH is mapped to physical resources such as the Physical Downlink Shared Channel (PDSCH) that can be dynamically used for traffic.

[0024] Among the uplink transport channels, the uplink shared channel (UL-SCH) is subject to retransmission control using HARQ. The UL-SCH supports dynamic or semi-static resource allocation. Semi-static resource allocation is also called configured grant. The UL-SCH is mapped to the physical uplink shared channel (PUSCH).

[0025] The Random Access Channel (RACH) is limited to control information, has a risk of collision, and is mapped to the Physical Random Access Channel (PRACH).

[0026] The following describes HARQ. HARQ is a technology that improves the communication quality of a transmission path by combining Automatic Repeat reQuest (ARQ) and Forward Error Correction. HARQ has the advantage that error correction functions effectively through retransmission even for transmission paths whose communication quality varies. In particular, by combining the reception result of the initial transmission and the reception result of the retransmission when retransmitting, it is possible to obtain further quality improvement.

[0027] An example of a retransmission method will be described below. If the receiving side is unable to decode the received data correctly, in other words, if a CRC (Cyclic Redundancy Check) error occurs (CRC=NG), the receiving side will send a "Nack" to the transmitting side. The transmitting side, having received the "Nack", will retransmit the data. If the receiving side is able to decode the received data correctly, in other words, if no CRC error occurs (CRC=OK), the receiving side will send an "Ack" to the transmitting side. The transmitting side, having received the "Ack", will send the next data.

[0028] Another example of a retransmission method will be described. If a CRC error occurs on the receiving side, the receiving side requests a retransmission from the transmitting side. The retransmission request is made by toggling an NDI (New Data Indicator). The transmitting side, upon receiving the retransmission request, retransmits the data. If no CRC error occurs on the receiving side, no retransmission request is made. If the transmitting side does not receive a retransmission request for a predetermined period of time, it assumes that no CRC error occurred on the receiving side.

[0029] The logical channels described in Non-Patent Document 1 (Chapter 6) are explained below. The Broadcast Control Channel (BCCH) is a downlink channel for broadcasting system control information. The BCCH, which is a logical channel, is mapped to the broadcast channel (BCH) or the downlink shared channel (DL-SCH), which are transport channels.

[0030] The Paging Control Channel (PCCH) is a downlink channel for transmitting paging information and changes to system information. The PCCH, which is a logical channel, is mapped to the Paging Channel (PCH), which is a transport channel.

[0031] The Common Control Channel (CCCH) is a channel for transmitting control information between a communication terminal and a base station. The CCCH is used when the communication terminal does not have an RRC connection with the network. In the downlink direction, the CCCH is mapped to the Downlink Shared Channel (DL-SCH), which is a transport channel. In the uplink direction, the CCCH is mapped to the Uplink Shared Channel (UL-SCH), which is a transport channel.

[0032] A Dedicated Control Channel (DCCH) is a channel that transmits dedicated control information between a communication terminal and a network in a one-to-one relationship. The DCCH is used when the communication terminal has an RRC connection with the network. The DCCH is mapped to an uplink shared channel (UL-SCH) in the uplink and to a downlink shared channel (DL-SCH) in the downlink.

[0033] A Dedicated Traffic Channel (DTCH) is a point-to-point communication channel for transmitting user information to a communication terminal. DTCH exists in both uplink and downlink. In uplink, DTCH is mapped to an uplink shared channel (UL-SCH) and in downlink, it is mapped to a downlink shared channel (DL-SCH).

[0034] The location of a communication terminal is tracked in units of an area consisting of one or more cells. Location tracking is performed to track the location of the communication terminal even when it is in standby mode and to call the communication terminal, in other words, to enable the communication terminal to receive calls. The area for tracking the location of this communication terminal is called a Tracking Area (TA).

[0035] In NR, paging of communication terminals within a range that is smaller than a tracking area is supported. This range is called a RAN Notification Area (RNA). Paging of communication terminals in the RRC_INACTIVE state, which will be described later, is performed within this range.

[0036] In NR, in order to support wide frequency bandwidths (transmission bandwidths), carrier aggregation (CA) is being considered, which aggregates (also referred to as "aggregation") two or more component carriers (CCs). CA is described in Non-Patent Document 1.

[0037] When CA is configured, a communication terminal (UE) has only one RRC connection with the network (NW). In the RRC connection, one serving cell provides NAS (Non-Access Stratum) mobility information and security input. This cell is called a primary cell (PCell). Depending on the UE's capabilities, a secondary cell (SCell) is configured to form a serving cell set together with the PCell. A serving cell set consisting of one PCell and one or more SCells is configured for one UE.

[0038] In addition, in 3GPP, in order to further increase communication capacity, there is a dual connectivity (abbreviated as DC) in which a UE connects to two base stations to communicate. DC is described in Non-Patent Documents 1 and 22.

[0039] Of the base stations performing dual connectivity (DC), one may be referred to as a "master base station (Master Node: MN)" and the other as a "secondary base station (Secondary Node: SN)." Serving cells configured by the master base station may be collectively referred to as a master cell group (MCG), and serving cells configured by secondary base stations may be collectively referred to as a secondary cell group (SCG). In DC, the primary cell in the MCG or SCG is referred to as a special cell (SpCell or SPCell). The special cell in the MCG is referred to as a PCell, and the special cell in the SCG is referred to as a primary SCG cell (PSCell).

[0040] In addition, in NR, the base station pre-sets a portion of the carrier frequency band (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the Bandwidth Part (BWP)) for the UE, and the UE transmits and receives data to and from the base station using this BWP, thereby reducing power consumption in the UE.

[0041] Additionally, 3GPP is considering supporting services (or applications) using side link (SL) communication (also referred to as PC5 communication) in both the Evolved Packet System (EPS) (described later) and the 5G core system (see Non-Patent Documents 1, 2, 26 to 28). SL communication involves communication between terminals. Services using SL communication include, for example, vehicle-to-everything (V2X) services and proximity services. In SL communication, not only direct communication between terminals but also communication between a UE and a network via a relay has been proposed (see Non-Patent Documents 26 and 28).

[0042] The physical channels used for SL (see Non-Patent Documents 2 and 11) are as follows: The physical sidelink broadcast channel (PSBCH) carries information related to the system and synchronization and is transmitted from the UE.

[0043] The physical sidelink control channel (PSCCH) carries control information from the UE for sidelink and V2X sidelink communications.

[0044] The physical sidelink shared channel (PSSCH) carries data from the UE for sidelink and V2X sidelink communications.

[0045] The physical sidelink feedback channel (PSFCH) carries HARQ feedback on the sidelink from a UE that received a PSSCH transmission to the UE that transmitted the PSSCH.

[0046] The transport channel used for SL (see Non-Patent Document 1) will be described. The sidelink broadcast channel (SL-BCH) has a predetermined transport format and is mapped to the PSBCH, which is a physical channel.

[0047] The Sidelink Shared Channel (SL-SCH) supports broadcast transmissions. The SL-SCH supports both UE autonomous resource selection and base station scheduled resource allocation. UE autonomous resource selection involves a collision risk, whereas when the UE is allocated dedicated resources by the base station, there is no collision. The SL-SCH also supports dynamic link adaptation by changing transmit power, modulation, and coding. The SL-SCH is mapped to the PSSCH, which is a physical channel.

[0048] The logical channels used for SL (see Non-Patent Document 2) will be described. The Sidelink Broadcast Control Channel (SBCCH) is a sidelink channel for broadcasting sidelink system information from one UE to other UEs. The SBCCH is mapped to the SL-BCH, which is a transport channel.

[0049] The Sidelink Traffic Channel (STCH) is a point-to-multipoint traffic channel for transmitting user information from one UE to other UEs. The STCH is used only by UEs with sidelink communication capability and UEs with V2X sidelink communication capability. Point-to-point communication between two sidelink-capable UEs is also realized by the STCH. The STCH is mapped to the SL-SCH, a transport channel.

[0050] The Sidelink Control Channel (SCCH) is a control channel for transmitting control information from one UE to another UE. The SCCH is mapped to the SL-SCH, which is a transport channel.

[0051] In LTE, only broadcast was supported for SL communication. In NR, support for unicast and groupcast as SL communication in addition to broadcast is being considered (see Non-Patent Document 27 (3GPP TS23.287)).

[0052] In unicast communication and groupcast communication in SL, HARQ feedback (Ack / Nack), CSI reporting, etc. are supported.

[0053] In addition, 3GPP is considering integrated access and backhaul (IAB), which performs both the access link between a UE and a base station and the backhaul link between base stations wirelessly (see Non-Patent Documents 2, 20, and 29).

[0054] Several new technologies have been proposed for mobile communication systems, including the integration of sensing (detection of objects using radio waves) and communication (see Non-Patent Documents 30 and 31).

[0055] 3GPP TS36.300 V17.5.03GPP TS38.300 V17.5.0“Scenarios, requirements and KPIs for 5G mobile and wireless system”、ICT-317669-METIS / D1.13GPP TR23.799 V14.0.03GPP TR38.801 V14.0.03GPP TR38.802 V14.2.03GPP TR38.804 V14.0.03GPP TR38.912 V16.0.03GPP RP-1721153GPP TS23.501 V18.2.23GPP TS38.211 V17.5.03GPP TS38.212 V17.5.03GPP TS38.213 V17.6.03GPP TS38.214 V17.6.03GPP TS38.321 V17.5.03GPP TS38.322 V17.3.03GPP TS38.323 V17.5.03GPP TS37.324 V17.0.03GPP TS38.331 V17.5.03GPP TS38.401 V17.5.03GPP TS38.413 V17.5.03GPP TS37.340 V17.5.03GPP TS38.423 V17.5.03GPP TS38.305 V17.5.03GPP TS23.273 V18.2.03GPP TR23.703 V12.0.03GPP TS23.287 V18.0.03GPP TS23.303 V17.1.03GPP TS38.340 V17.5.03GPP TR22.837 V19.0.03GPP RWS-2302503GPP SWS-2300503GPP RWS-2302273GPP RWS-2301053GPP TS23.502 V18.2.23GPP TR23.700-88 V18.0.0

[0056] In mobile communication systems, it has been proposed to detect targets by sensing in addition to communication with UEs (see Non-Patent Documents 30 and 31). Sensing targets include, for example, intruders, obstacles, rivers, and the atmosphere, which are not UEs (i.e., do not have UEs). Specific methods required for performing sensing in a mobile communication system to satisfy the required sensing performance have not been disclosed and are unclear. This can lead to problems such as the inability to perform sensing processing in the mobile communication system.

[0057] In view of the above-mentioned problems, one of the objects of the present disclosure is to realize not only communication with a UE but also sensing processing in a communication system.

[0058] The communication system disclosed herein includes a base station compatible with a fifth-generation wireless access system and a communication terminal connected to the base station, and performs sensing processing using a sensing beam between a transmitting base station, which is a base station that transmits sensing resources, and a receiving communication terminal, which is a communication terminal that receives the sensing resources.The communication terminal that performs the sensing beam management processing measures a sensing resource set consisting of one or more sensing resources corresponding to candidates for the sensing beam and transmits the measurement results to the transmitting base station, and the transmitting base station determines a sensing beam based on the measurement results and notifies the receiving communication terminal of the determined sensing beam.

[0059] According to the present disclosure, in a communication system, not only communication with a UE but also sensing processing can be realized.

[0060] The objects, features, aspects, and advantages of the present disclosure will become more apparent from the following detailed description and the accompanying drawings.

[0061] 1 is an explanatory diagram showing the configuration of a radio frame used in an NR communication system. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the overall configuration of an NR communication system 210 being discussed in 3GPP. FIG. 3 is a configuration diagram of DC by a base station connected to an NG core. FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a mobile terminal 202 shown in FIG. 2. FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a base station 213 shown in FIG. 2. FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a 5GC unit. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an overview of the process from cell search to standby operation performed by a communication terminal (UE) in an NR communication system. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a cell in an NR system. FIG. 9 is a connection configuration diagram showing an example of the connection configuration of a terminal in SL communication. FIG. 10 is a connection configuration diagram showing an example of the connection configuration of a base station that supports access / backhaul integration. FIG. 11 is a conceptual diagram of sensing when a base station is a transmitting node of sensing resources and a UE is a receiving node of sensing resources. FIG. 12 is a conceptual diagram of sensing when a base station is a transmitting node of sensing resources and a base station is a receiving node of sensing resources. FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram of sensing when a UE is a transmitting node of sensing resources and a UE is a receiving node of sensing resources. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a sequence of a BM for sensing for a first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a sequence of a BM for sensing when a receiving UE performs HO for a second embodiment. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a sequence of a BM for sensing when a sensing target moves for a third embodiment. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing another example of a sequence of a BM for sensing when a sensing target moves for a third embodiment. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a sequence of a non-3GPP sensing process for a fourth embodiment. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a sequence of a sensing process using a UP for a fifth embodiment. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing another example of a sequence of a sensing process using a UP for a fifth embodiment.

[0062] Embodiment 1. Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the overall configuration of an NR communication system 210 being discussed in 3GPP. Figure 2 will be explained. The radio access network is called an NG-RAN (Next Generation Radio Access Network) 211. A mobile terminal device (hereinafter referred to as a "mobile terminal (User Equipment: UE)") 202, which is a communication terminal device, is capable of wireless communication with a base station device (hereinafter referred to as an "NR base station (NG-RAN NodeB: gNB)") 213, and transmits and receives signals via wireless communication. The NG-RAN 211 is composed of one or more NR base stations 213.

[0063] Here, the term "communication terminal device" includes not only mobile terminal devices such as mobile cell phone terminal devices, but also stationary devices such as sensors. In the following description, the term "communication terminal device" may be simply referred to as a "communication terminal."

[0064] An access stratum (AS) protocol is terminated between the UE 202 and the NG-RAN 211. Examples of AS protocols include radio resource control (RRC), service data adaptation protocol (SDAP), packet data convergence protocol (PDCP), radio link control (RLC), medium access control (MAC), and physical layer (PHY). RRC is used in the control plane (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the C-plane, C-Plane, or CP), SDAP is used in the user plane (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the U-plane, U-Plane, or UP), and PDCP, MAC, RLC, and PHY are used in both the C-plane and the U-plane.

[0065] The control protocol RRC (Radio Resource Control) between the UE 202 and the NR base station 213 performs broadcasting, paging, RRC connection management, etc. The states of the NR base station 213 and the UE 202 in RRC include RRC_IDLE, RRC_CONNECTED, and RRC_INACTIVE.

[0066] In RRC_IDLE, PLMN (Public Land Mobile Network) selection, system information (SI) broadcast, paging, cell re-selection, mobility, etc. are performed. In RRC_CONNECTED, the mobile terminal has an RRC connection and can transmit and receive data with the network. In addition, in RRC_CONNECTED, handover (HO), measurement of neighbor cells, etc. are performed. In RRC_INACTIVE, the connection between the 5G core unit 214 and the NR base station 213 is maintained, and system information (SI) broadcast, paging, cell re-selection, mobility, etc. are performed.

[0067] The gNB 213 is connected to a 5G core unit (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the "5GC unit") 214, which includes an Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF), a Session Management Function (SMF), or a User Plane Function (UPF), via an NG interface. Control information and / or user data is communicated between the gNB 213 and the 5GC unit 214. The NG interface is a collective term for the N2 interface between the gNB 213 and the AMF 220, the N3 interface between the gNB 213 and the UPF 221, the N11 interface between the AMF 220 and the SMF 222, and the N4 interface between the UPF 221 and the SMF 222. Multiple 5GC units 214 may be connected to one gNB 213. The gNBs 213 are connected via an Xn interface, and control information and / or user data are communicated between the gNBs 213.

[0068] The 5GC unit 214 is a higher-level device, specifically a higher-level node, and controls the connection between the NR base station 213 and the mobile terminal (UE) 202, distributes paging signals to one or more NR base stations (gNB) 213 and / or LTE base stations (E-UTRAN NodeB: eNB), and performs other functions. The 5GC unit 214 also performs mobility control in the idle state. The 5GC unit 214 manages the tracking area list when the mobile terminal 202 is in the idle state, in the inactive state, and in the active state. The 5GC unit 214 initiates a paging protocol by transmitting a paging message to a cell belonging to the tracking area in which the mobile terminal 202 is registered.

[0069] The gNB 213 may configure one or more cells. When one gNB 213 configures multiple cells, each cell is configured to be able to communicate with the UE 202.

[0070] The gNB 213 may be divided into a central unit (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as CU) 215 and a distributed unit (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as DU) 216. One CU 215 is configured within the gNB 213. One or more DUs 216 are configured within the gNB 213. One DU 216 configures one or more cells. The CU 215 is connected to the DU 216 via an F1 interface, and control information and / or user data is communicated between the CU 215 and the DU 216. The F1 interface consists of an F1-C interface and an F1-U interface. The CU 215 is responsible for the functions of the RRC, SDAP, and PDCP protocols, and the DU 216 is responsible for the functions of the RLC, MAC, and PHY protocols. One or more TRPs (Transmission Reception Points) 219 may be connected to the DU 216. The TRP 219 transmits and receives radio signals to and from the UE.

[0071] The CU 215 may be divided into a C-plane CU (CU-C) 217 ​​and a U-plane CU (CU-U) 218. One CU-C 217 is configured within the CU 215. One or more CU-Us 218 are configured within the CU 215. The CU-C 217 is connected to the CU-U 218 via an E1 interface, and control information is communicated between the CU-C 217 and the CU-U 218. The CU-C 217 is connected to the DU 216 via an F1-C interface, and control information is communicated between the CU-C 217 and the DU 216. The CU-U 218 is connected to the DU 216 via an F1-U interface, and user data is communicated between the CU-U 218 and the DU 216.

[0072] In a 5G communication system, a Unified Data Management (UDM) function and a Policy Control Function (PCF) described in Non-Patent Document 10 (3GPP TS23.501) may be included. The UDM and / or PCF may be included in the 5GC unit 214 in FIG. 2 .

[0073] In a 5G communication system, a Location Management Function (LMF) described in Non-Patent Document 24 (3GPP TS 38.305) may be provided. The LMF may be connected to a base station via an AMF as disclosed in Non-Patent Document 25 (3GPP TS 23.273).

[0074] A 5G communication system may include a Non-3GPP Interworking Function (N3IWF) described in Non-Patent Document 10 (3GPP TS23.501). The N3IWF may terminate an Access Network (AN) between the UE and the N3IWF in non-3GPP access between the UE and the N3IWF.

[0075] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a DC (dual connectivity) configuration connected to an NG core. In FIG. 3, solid lines indicate U-Plane connections, and dashed lines indicate C-Plane connections. In FIG. 3, the master base station 240-1 may be a gNB or an eNB. Furthermore, the secondary base station 240-2 may be a gNB or an eNB. For example, in FIG. 3, a DC configuration in which the master base station 240-1 is a gNB and the secondary base station 240-2 is an eNB may be referred to as NG-EN-DC. In FIG. 3, an example is shown in which the U-Plane connection between the 5GC unit 214 and the secondary base station 240-2 is performed via the master base station 240-1, but it may also be performed directly between the 5GC unit 214 and the secondary base station 240-2. 3, an EPC (Evolved Packet Core), which is a core network connected to the LTE system and the LTE-A system, may be connected to the master base station 240-1 instead of the 5GC unit 214. A U-Plane connection may be directly established between the EPC and the secondary base station 240-2.

[0076] FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing the configuration of mobile terminal 202 shown in FIG. 2. The transmission process of mobile terminal 202 shown in FIG. 4 will be described. First, control data from control unit 310 and user data from application unit 302 are sent to protocol processing unit 301. Buffering of the control data and user data may be performed. Buffers for the control data and user data may be provided in control unit 310, application unit 302, or protocol processing unit 301. Protocol processing unit 301 performs protocol processing such as SDAP, PDCP, RLC, and MAC, for example, determining a destination base station in DC, and adding a header for each protocol. The protocol-processed data is passed to encoder unit 304, where it is subjected to encoding such as error correction. Some data may be output directly from protocol processing unit 301 to modulation unit 305 without being encoded. The data encoded by encoder unit 304 is modulated by modulation unit 305. Precoding in MIMO may be performed by modulation unit 305. The modulated data is converted into a baseband signal, and then output to frequency conversion section 306, where it is converted into a radio transmission frequency. Then, the transmission signal is transmitted from antennas 307-1 to 307-4 to base station 213. Although the example in FIG. 4 shows a case where the number of antennas is four, the number of antennas is not limited to four.

[0077] Furthermore, the reception process of the mobile terminal 202 is performed as follows. Radio signals from the base station 213 are received by the antennas 307-1 to 307-4. The received signals are converted from a radio reception frequency to a baseband signal by the frequency conversion unit 306, and demodulated by the demodulation unit 308. The demodulation unit 308 may also perform weight calculation and multiplication processing. The demodulated data is passed to the decoder unit 309, where decoding processes such as error correction are performed. The decoded data is passed to the protocol processing unit 301, where protocol processing such as MAC, RLC, PDCP, and SDAP is performed, for example, operations such as removing headers in each protocol. Of the data that has undergone protocol processing, the control data is passed to the control unit 310, and the user data is passed to the application unit 302.

[0078] A series of processes in the mobile terminal 202 is controlled by a control unit 310. Therefore, the control unit 310 is also connected to each of the units 302, 304 to 309, although this is omitted in FIG.

[0079] Each unit of the mobile terminal 202, such as the control unit 310, protocol processing unit 301, encoder unit 304, and decoder unit 309, is implemented by a processing circuit including, for example, a processor and memory. For example, the control unit 310 is implemented by a processor executing a program describing a series of processes performed by the mobile terminal 202. The program describing the series of processes performed by the mobile terminal 202 is stored in memory. Examples of memory include non-volatile or volatile semiconductor memory such as RAM (Random Access Memory), ROM (Read Only Memory), and flash memory. Each unit of the mobile terminal 202, such as the control unit 310, protocol processing unit 301, encoder unit 304, and decoder unit 309, may be implemented by a dedicated processing circuit such as an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), or a DSP (Digital Signal Processor). In FIG. 4, the number of antennas used by the mobile terminal 202 for transmission and the number of antennas used for reception may be the same or different.

[0080] 5 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the base station 213 shown in FIG. 2. The transmission process of the base station 213 shown in FIG. 5 will be described. The EPC communication unit 401 transmits and receives data between the base station 213 and the EPC. The 5GC communication unit 412 transmits and receives data between the base station 213 and the 5GC (such as the 5GC unit 214). The other base station communication unit 402 transmits and receives data with other base stations. The EPC communication unit 401, the 5GC communication unit 412, and the other base station communication unit 402 each exchange information with the protocol processing unit 403. Control data from the control unit 411, and user data and control data from the EPC communication unit 401, the 5GC communication unit 412, and the other base station communication unit 402 are sent to the protocol processing unit 403. Buffering of the control data and user data may be performed. Buffers for control data and user data may be provided in the control unit 411, the EPC communication unit 401, the 5GC communication unit 412, or the other base station communication unit 402.

[0081] The protocol processing unit 403 performs protocol processing such as SDAP, PDCP, RLC, MAC, etc., such as routing transmission data in DC, etc., and adding headers for each protocol. The protocol-processed data is passed to the encoder unit 405, where it is subjected to encoding processing such as error correction. Some data may be output directly from the protocol processing unit 403 to the modulation unit 406 without being encoded. Data may also be sent from the protocol processing unit 403 to the other base station communication unit 402. For example, in DC, data sent from the 5GC communication unit 412 or the EPC communication unit 401 may be sent to another base station, such as a secondary base station, via the other base station communication unit 402. The encoded data is modulated by the modulation unit 406. The modulation unit 406 may also perform MIMO precoding. The modulated data is converted into a baseband signal, and then output to the frequency conversion unit 407, where it is converted into a radio transmission frequency. Thereafter, the transmission signals are transmitted from antennas 408-1 to 408-4 to one or more mobile terminals 202. Although the number of antennas is four in the example shown in Fig. 5, the number of antennas is not limited to four.

[0082] Furthermore, the reception process of the base station 213 is performed as follows. Radio signals from one or more mobile terminals 202 are received by antennas 408-1 to 408-4. The received signals are converted from a radio reception frequency to a baseband signal by a frequency conversion unit 407, and demodulated by a demodulation unit 409. The demodulated data is passed to a decoder unit 410, where decoding processes such as error correction are performed. The decoded data is passed to a protocol processing unit 403, where protocol processes such as MAC, RLC, PDCP, and SDAP are performed, for example, operations such as removing headers in each protocol. Of the data that has undergone protocol processing, control data is passed to the control unit 411, 5GC communication unit 412, EPC communication unit 401, or other base station communication unit 402, and user data is passed to the 5GC communication unit 412, EPC communication unit 401, or other base station communication unit 402. Data sent from the other base station communication unit 402 may be sent to the 5GC communication unit 412 or the EPC communication unit 401. The data may be, for example, uplink data sent to the 5GC communication unit 412 or the EPC communication unit 401 via another base station in DC.

[0083] A series of processes in the base station 213 is controlled by a control unit 411. Therefore, the control unit 411 is also connected to each of the units 401, 402, 405 to 410, and 412, although this is omitted in FIG.

[0084] Each unit of the base station 213, for example, the control unit 411, the protocol processing unit 403, the 5GC communication unit 412, the EPC communication unit 401, the other base station communication unit 402, the encoder unit 405, and the decoder unit 410, is realized by a processing circuit including a processor and a memory, or a dedicated processing circuit such as an FPGA, an ASIC, or a DSP, similar to the above-mentioned mobile terminal 202. In Fig. 5, the number of antennas used by the base station 213 for transmission and the number of antennas used for reception may be the same or different.

[0085] As an example of the configuration of the CU 215 shown in Fig. 2, a configuration in which a DU communication unit is provided is sometimes used, excluding the encoder unit 405, modulation unit 406, frequency conversion unit 407, antennas 408-1 to 408-4, demodulation unit 409, and decoder unit 410 shown in Fig. 5. The DU communication unit is connected to a protocol processing unit 403. The protocol processing unit 403 in the CU 215 performs protocol processing such as PDCP and SDAP.

[0086] As an example of the configuration of the DU 216 shown in Fig. 2, a configuration in which a CU communication unit is provided may be used, excluding the EPC communication unit 401, other base station communication unit 402, and 5GC communication unit 412 shown in Fig. 5. The CU communication unit is connected to a protocol processing unit 403. The protocol processing unit 403 in the DU 216 performs protocol processing such as PHY, MAC, and RLC.

[0087] FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the 5GC unit. FIG. 6 shows the configuration of the 5GC unit 214 shown in FIG. 2 described above. FIG. 6 shows a case where the 5GC unit 214 shown in FIG. 2 includes an AMF configuration, an SMF configuration, and a UPF configuration. In the example shown in FIG. 6, the AMF may have the function of the control plane control unit 525, the SMF may have the function of the session management unit 527, and the UPF may have the functions of the user plane communication unit 523 and the Data Network communication unit 521. The Data Network communication unit 521 transmits and receives data between the 5GC unit 214 and the Data Network. The base station communication unit 522 transmits and receives data via the NG interface between the 5GC unit 214 and the base station 213. User data sent from the Data Network is passed from the Data Network communication unit 521 to the base station communication unit 522 via the user plane communication unit 523, and then transmitted to one or more base stations 213. User data sent from the base station 213 is passed from the base station communication unit 522 to the Data Network communication unit 521 via the user plane communication unit 523, and then transmitted to the Data Network.

[0088] The control data sent from the base station 213 is passed from the base station communication unit 522 to the control plane control unit 525. The control plane control unit 525 may pass the control data to the session management unit 527. The control data may be sent from the Data Network. The control data sent from the Data Network may be sent from the Data Network communication unit 521 to the session management unit 527 via the user plane communication unit 523. The session management unit 527 may send the control data to the control plane control unit 525.

[0089] The user plane communication unit 523 includes a PDU processing unit 523-1, a mobility anchoring unit 523-2, etc., and performs general processing for the user plane (hereinafter sometimes referred to as U-Plane). The PDU processing unit 523-1 processes data packets, for example, transmitting and receiving packets to and from the Data Network communication unit 521, and transmitting and receiving packets to and from the base station communication unit 522. The mobility anchoring unit 523-2 is responsible for anchoring the data path during UE mobility.

[0090] The session management unit 527 manages the PDU session established between the UE and the UPF. The session management unit 527 includes a PDU session control unit 527-1, a UE IP address allocation unit 527-2, etc. The PDU session control unit 527-1 manages the PDU session between the mobile terminal 202 and the 5GC unit 214. The UE IP address allocation unit 527-2 assigns an IP address to the mobile terminal 202, etc.

[0091] The control plane control unit 525 includes a NAS security unit 525-1, an idle state mobility management unit 525-2, etc., and performs overall processing for the control plane (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the C-Plane). The NAS security unit 525-1 performs security for NAS (Non-Access Stratum) messages, etc. The idle state mobility management unit 525-2 performs mobility management in the standby state (idle state: also referred to as RRC_IDLE state or simply idle), generation and control of paging signals in the standby state, addition, deletion, update, search, tracking area list management, etc. for one or more mobile terminals 202 under its control.

[0092] A series of processes of the 5GC unit 214 is controlled by a control unit 526. Therefore, although the control unit 526 is omitted in Fig. 6, it is connected to each unit 521 to 523, 525, and 527. Like the control unit 310 of the mobile terminal 202 described above, each unit of the 5GC unit 214 is realized by, for example, a processing circuit configured to include a processor and memory, or a dedicated processing circuit such as an FPGA, ASIC, or DSP.

[0093] Next, an example of a cell search method in a communication system is shown. Fig. 7 is a flowchart showing an outline of the process from cell search to standby operation performed by a communication terminal (UE) in an NR communication system. When the communication terminal starts a cell search, in step ST601, it synchronizes slot timing and frame timing using a primary synchronization signal (P-SS) and a secondary synchronization signal (S-SS) transmitted from a surrounding base station.

[0094] P-SS and S-SS are collectively called a synchronization signal (SS). A synchronization code is assigned to the synchronization signal (SS) in one-to-one correspondence with a PCI (Physical Cell Identifier) ​​assigned to each cell. 1008 different PCIs are being considered. A communication terminal synchronizes using these 1008 different PCIs and detects (identifies) the PCI of the synchronized cell.

[0095] In step ST602, the communication terminal receives the PBCH for the next synchronized cell. A master information block (MIB) including cell configuration information is mapped to the BCCH on the PBCH. Therefore, the MIB can be obtained by receiving the PBCH and obtaining the BCCH. Examples of MIB information include a system frame number (SFN), scheduling information for system information block (SIB) 1, subcarrier spacing for SIB1 and the like, and information on the DM-RS position.

[0096] Furthermore, the communication terminal acquires an SS block identifier from the PBCH. A part of the bit string of the SS block identifier is included in the MIB. The remaining bit string is included in an identifier used to generate a sequence of DM-RS associated with the PBCH. The communication terminal acquires the SS block identifier using the MIB included in the PBCH and the sequence of DM-RS associated with the PBCH.

[0097] Next, in step ST603, the communication terminal measures the received power of the SS block.

[0098] Next, in step ST604, the communication terminal selects the cell with the best reception quality, for example, the cell with the highest reception power, that is, the best cell, from among the one or more cells detected up to step ST603. The communication terminal also selects the beam with the best reception quality, for example, the beam with the highest reception power of the SS block, that is, the best beam. The reception power of the SS block for each SS block identifier is used, for example, to select the best beam.

[0099] Next, in step ST605, the communication terminal receives DL-SCH based on the scheduling information of SIB1 included in the MIB, and obtains SIB (System Information Block) 1 in the broadcast information BCCH. SIB1 includes information on access to the cell, cell configuration information, and scheduling information of other SIBs (SIBk: k is an integer greater than or equal to 2). SIB1 also includes a tracking area code (TAC).

[0100] Next, in step ST606, the communication terminal compares the TAC of SIB1 received in step ST605 with the TAC portion of the tracking area identity (TAI) in the tracking area list already held by the communication terminal. The tracking area list is also called a TAI list. The TAI is identification information for identifying a tracking area, and is composed of an MCC (Mobile Country Code), an MNC (Mobile Network Code), and a TAC (Tracking Area Code). The MCC is a country code. The MNC is a network code. The TAC is a tracking area code number.

[0101] If the comparison in step ST606 shows that the TAC received in step ST605 is the same as the TAC included in the tracking area list, the communication terminal enters standby mode in the cell. If the comparison shows that the TAC received in step ST605 is not included in the tracking area list, the communication terminal requests a core network (EPC) including an MME and the like to change the tracking area through the cell in order to perform a Tracking Area Update (TAU).

[0102] An apparatus constituting a core network (hereinafter sometimes referred to as a "core network apparatus") updates the tracking area list based on the identification number (e.g., UE-ID) of a communication terminal sent from the communication terminal together with a TAU request signal. The core network apparatus transmits the updated tracking area list to the communication terminal. The communication terminal rewrites (updates) the TAC list held by the communication terminal based on the received tracking area list. Thereafter, the communication terminal enters standby mode in the cell.

[0103] Next, examples of random access methods in a communication system are shown. Four-step random access and two-step random access are used for random access. For each of the four-step and two-step random access methods, there is contention-based random access, i.e., random access in which timing collisions with other mobile terminals may occur, and contention-free random access.

[0104] An example of a collision-based four-step random access method is shown below. In the first step, the mobile terminal transmits a random access preamble to the base station. The random access preamble may be selected by the mobile terminal from a predetermined range, or may be individually assigned to the mobile terminal and notified by the base station.

[0105] In the second step, the base station transmits a random access response to the mobile terminal, which includes uplink scheduling information used in the third step, a terminal identifier used in the uplink transmission in the third step, and the like.

[0106] In the third step, the mobile terminal performs uplink transmission to the base station. The mobile terminal uses the information acquired in the second step for uplink transmission. In the fourth step, the base station notifies the mobile terminal whether or not the collision has been resolved. If the mobile terminal is notified that there is no collision, it ends the random access process. If the mobile terminal is notified that there is a collision, it starts the process over from the first step.

[0107] The contention-free four-step random access method differs from the contention-based four-step random access method in the following points: Prior to the first step, the base station pre-assigns a random access preamble and uplink scheduling to the mobile terminal, and the notification of whether or not contention has been resolved in the fourth step is not required.

[0108] An example of a collision-based two-step random access method is shown below. In the first step, the mobile terminal transmits a random access preamble and performs uplink transmission to the base station. In the second step, the base station notifies the mobile terminal whether there is a collision. If the mobile terminal is notified that there is no collision, it terminates the random access process. If the mobile terminal is notified that there is a collision, it restarts the process from the first step.

[0109] The contention-free two-step random access method differs from the contention-based two-step random access method in the following points: prior to the first step, the base station pre-assigns a random access preamble and uplink scheduling to the mobile terminal, and in the second step, the base station transmits a random access response to the mobile terminal.

[0110] FIG. 8 shows an example of a cell configuration in NR. In an NR cell, narrow beams are formed and transmitted in different directions. In the example shown in FIG. 8, at certain times, base station 750 transmits and receives signals to and from a mobile terminal using beam 751-1. At other times, base station 750 transmits and receives signals to and from a mobile terminal using beam 751-2. In a similar manner, base station 750 transmits and receives signals to and from a mobile terminal using one or more of beams 751-3 to 751-8. In this way, base station 750 forms a wide-area cell 752.

[0111] 8 shows an example in which the number of beams used by the base station 750 is 8, but the number of beams may be different from 8. Also, in the example shown in FIG. 8, the number of beams used simultaneously by the base station 750 is 1, but it may be multiple.

[0112] The concept of Quasi-CoLocation (QCL) is used to identify beams (see Non-Patent Document 14 (3GPP TS38.214)). That is, the beam is identified by information indicating which reference signal (e.g., SS block, CSI-RS) the beam can be considered to be the same as. The information may include types of information regarding the aspects of the beams that can be considered to be the same, such as Doppler shift, Doppler shift spread, mean delay, mean delay spread, and spatial Rx parameters (see Non-Patent Document 14 (3GPP TS38.214)).

[0113] In 3GPP, a side link (SL) is supported for D2D (Device to Device) communication and V2V (Vehicle to Vehicle) communication (see Non-Patent Document 1 and Non-Patent Document 16). The SL is defined by the PC5 interface.

[0114] In order to support unicast and groupcast in addition to broadcast in SL communication, support for PC5-S signaling is being considered (see Non-Patent Document 27 (3GPP TS23.287)). For example, PC5-S signaling is implemented to establish a link for implementing SL, i.e., PC5 communication. The link is implemented in the V2X layer and is also called a Layer 2 link.

[0115] Furthermore, support for RRC signaling in SL communication is being considered (see Non-Patent Document 27 (3GPP TS23.287)). RRC signaling in SL communication is also referred to as PC5 RRC signaling. For example, it has been proposed to notify UE capabilities between UEs performing PC5 communication, or to notify AS layer settings for performing V2X communication using PC5 communication.

[0116] An example of a connection configuration of mobile terminals in SL communication is shown in Fig. 9. In the example shown in Fig. 9, UE 805 and UE 806 exist within the coverage 803 of base station 801. UL / DL communication 807 is performed between base station 801 and UE 805. UL / DL communication 808 is performed between base station 801 and UE 806. SL communication 810 is performed between UE 805 and UE 806. UE 811 and UE 812 exist outside the coverage 803. SL communication 814 is performed between UE 805 and UE 811. In addition, SL communication 816 is performed between UE 811 and UE 812.

[0117] As an example of communication between a UE and a NW via a relay in SL communication, a UE 805 shown in FIG. 9 relays communication between a UE 811 and a base station 801.

[0118] A configuration similar to that shown in FIG. 4 may be used for a UE that performs relaying. The relaying process in the UE will be described using FIG. 4. The relaying process by UE 805 in communication from UE 811 to base station 801 will be described. A radio signal from UE 811 is received by antennas 307-1 to 307-4. The received signal is converted from a radio reception frequency to a baseband signal by frequency conversion unit 306, and demodulated by demodulation unit 308. Weight calculation and multiplication processing may also be performed by demodulation unit 308. The demodulated data is passed to decoder unit 309, where decoding processing such as error correction is performed. The decoded data is passed to protocol processing unit 301, where protocol processing such as MAC and RLC used for communication with UE 811 is performed, such as removing headers in each protocol. Protocol processing such as RLC and MAC used for communication with base station 801 is also performed, such as adding headers in each protocol. Protocol processing of PDCP and SDAP may be performed in protocol processing unit 301 of UE 811. The protocol-processed data is passed to encoder unit 304, where encoding such as error correction is performed. Some data may be output directly from protocol processing unit 301 to modulation unit 305 without being encoded. The data encoded by encoder unit 304 is modulated by modulation unit 305. Precoding in MIMO may be performed by modulation unit 305. The modulated data is converted into a baseband signal, and then output to frequency conversion unit 306, where it is converted into a radio transmission frequency. Thereafter, a transmission signal is transmitted to base station 801 from antennas 307-1 to 307-4.

[0119] In the above, an example of relaying by UE 805 in communication from UE 811 to base station 801 has been shown, but similar processing is also used in relaying communication from base station 801 to UE 811.

[0120] 5G base stations can support integrated access and backhaul (IAB) (see Non-Patent Documents 2 and 20). A base station supporting IAB (hereinafter sometimes referred to as an IAB base station) is composed of an IAB donor CU, which is a CU of the base station operating as an IAB donor that provides IAB functions, an IAB donor DU, which is a DU of the base station operating as an IAB donor, and an IAB node connected to the IAB donor DU and to a UE via a radio interface. An F1 interface is provided between the IAB node and the IAB donor CU (see Non-Patent Document 2).

[0121] An example of IAB base station connections is shown in Figure 10. IAB donor CU 901 is connected to IAB donor DU 902. IAB node 903 is connected to IAB donor DU 902 using a wireless interface. IAB node 903 is connected to IAB node 904 using a wireless interface. In other words, IAB nodes may be connected in cascade. UE 905 is connected to IAB node 904 using a wireless interface. UE 906 may be connected to IAB node 903 using a wireless interface, and UE 907 may be connected to IAB donor DU 902 using a wireless interface. Multiple IAB donor DUs 902 may be connected to an IAB donor CU 901, multiple IAB nodes 903 may be connected to an IAB donor DU 902, and multiple IAB nodes 904 may be connected to an IAB node 903.

[0122] A BAP (Backhaul Adaptation Protocol) layer is provided in the connection between the IAB donor DU and the IAB node and in the connection between the IAB nodes (see Non-Patent Document 29). The BAP layer performs operations such as routing received data to the IAB donor DU and / or the IAB node, and mapping to an RLC channel (see Non-Patent Document 29).

[0123] As an example of the configuration of the IAB donor CU, a configuration similar to that of CU 215 is used.

[0124] An example of the configuration of the IAB donor DU is the same as that of the DU 216. The protocol processing unit of the IAB donor DU performs BAP layer processing, such as adding a BAP header to downstream data, routing to an IAB node, and removing the BAP header from upstream data.

[0125] As an example of the configuration of an IAB node, a configuration excluding the EPC communication unit 401, other base station communication unit 402, and 5GC communication unit 412 shown in Figure 5 may be used.

[0126] The transmission and reception processing at the IAB node will be described using FIGS. 5 and 10 . The transmission and reception processing at the IAB node 903 in communication between the IAB donor CU 901 and the UE 905 will be described. In uplink communication from the UE 905 to the IAB donor CU 901, a radio signal from the IAB node 904 is received by the antenna 408 (some or all of the antennas 408-1 to 408-4). The received signal is converted from a radio reception frequency to a baseband signal by the frequency conversion unit 407, and demodulated by the demodulation unit 409. The demodulated data is passed to the decoder unit 410, where decoding processing such as error correction is performed. The decoded data is passed to the protocol processing unit 403, where protocol processing such as MAC and RLC used for communication with the IAB node 904 is performed, such as removing headers in each protocol. In addition, routing to the IAB donor DU 902 is performed using a BAP header, and protocol processing such as RLC and MAC used for communication with the IAB donor DU 902, such as adding headers for each protocol, is performed. The protocol-processed data is passed to the encoder unit 405, where it is subjected to encoding processing such as error correction. Some data may be output directly from the protocol processing unit 403 to the modulation unit 406 without being encoded. The encoded data is modulated by the modulation unit 406. The modulation unit 406 may also perform precoding in MIMO. The modulated data is converted into a baseband signal, and then output to the frequency conversion unit 407, where it is converted into a radio transmission frequency. Then, a transmission signal is transmitted to the IAB donor DU 902 from antennas 408-1 to 408-4. Similar processing is performed in downlink communication from the IAB donor CU 901 to the UE 905.

[0127] The IAB node 904 also performs the same transmission and reception processing as the IAB node 903. The protocol processing unit 403 of the IAB node 903 performs BAP layer processing, such as adding a BAP header and routing to the IAB node 904 in upstream communication, and removing the BAP header in downstream communication.

[0128] In a mobile communication system in 3GPP, it has been proposed to detect targets by sensing in addition to communication with UEs (see Non-Patent Documents 30 and 31). Since sensing targets include entities other than UEs, the location management function introduced in the mobile communication system in 3GPP cannot simply be applied to sensing. A specific method for performing sensing in a mobile communication system is required.

[0129] It has been proposed to provide a function (which may be a node or an entity) that has the function of managing sensing (see Non-Patent Document 32). For example, this is called a sensing function (SF). However, Non-Patent Document 32 does not disclose specific sensing management, such as what to manage and how to manage it.

[0130] Sensing management includes, for example, management of sensing-related processes such as sensing requests, sensing settings, and sensing termination. The SF may also have the functionality of a sensing server. By providing a function with the functionality to manage sensing, it becomes possible to unify and manage the sensing process, thereby reducing the complexity of the sensing process.

[0131] The SF may be provided separately from other functions in the network. This can reduce the complexity of processing and reduce malfunctions. Alternatively, the SF may be included in other functions in the network. This can facilitate cooperation with other functions and reduce the amount of signaling.

[0132] In sensing using a mobile communication system, it has been proposed to sense targets using a UE or a base station (see Non-Patent Document 31). Figures 11 to 14 are conceptual diagrams of sensing using a UE or a base station. Figure 11 shows a case where the base station is the transmitting node of the resources used for sensing (sensing resources), and the UE is the receiving node of the sensing resources. Figure 12 shows a case where the base station is the transmitting node of the sensing resources, and the base station is the receiving node of the sensing resources. Figure 13 shows a case where the UE is the transmitting node of the sensing resources, and the base station is the receiving node of the sensing resources. Figure 14 shows a case where the UE is the transmitting node of the sensing resources, and the UE is the receiving node of the sensing resources.

[0133] A node that transmits sensing resources may be simply referred to as a transmitting node. If the node that transmits sensing resources is a base station, it may be simply referred to as a transmitting base station. A node that receives sensing resources may be simply referred to as a receiving node. If the node that receives sensing resources is a UE, it may be simply referred to as a receiving UE.

[0134] The transmitting base station transmits sensing radio waves toward the target. The transmitting base station transmits resources used for sensing (sensing resources) on the sensing radio waves. The transmitting base station may transmit the sensing resources using beams. The sensing resources may be resources on the frequency-time axis. For example, the sensing resources may be signals provided for sensing. For example, the sensing resources may be RSs transmitted on the frequency-time axis. For example, the sensing resources may be RSs provided for sensing, PRSs, CSI-RSs, SSBs (Synchronization Signal Blocks), SSs, MIBs, DM-RSs of MIBs, etc.

[0135] The transmitting base station determines a beam to be used for sensing. The transmitting base station may use a communication beam as a sensing beam. The communication beam is not limited to a beam that actually transmits data, but may also be a beam that the transmitting base station has set for the UE. For example, the base station may determine a sensing beam using a measurement result report from the UE of an RS corresponding to the communication beam. The transmitting base station may determine a sensing beam using a measurement result report of an SSB, CSI-RS, or PRS, for example. The transmitting base station may use, for example, information about a receiving UE received from an SF to determine a beam to be used for sensing using a beam for communication with the receiving UE. For example, using information about a receiving UE received from an SF, the transmitting base station may determine a beam to be used for sensing using a beam to be transmitted in the vicinity of the beam for communication with the receiving UE.

[0136] The transmitting base station may select one of multiple communication beams as the sensing beam. This is effective when there are multiple receiving UEs and multiple beams to use for communication with the UEs. Using one beam for sensing can simplify the sensing process.

[0137] The transmitting base station transmits sensing resources using the determined sensing beam. The sensing resources may be, for example, RSs set for sensing. Alternatively, the sensing resources may be PRSs, CSI-RSs, SSBs, etc. The transmitting base station determines the sensing resources to be used for sensing.

[0138] The transmitting base station may transmit QCL information of the sensing resource to the UE to identify the beam. The QCL information can indicate which RS and Quasi-CoLocation the sensing resource is.

[0139] The transmitting base station performs sensing configuration including sensing resource information, QCL information, etc. In this way, it is possible to derive the sensing configuration used to detect the sensing target. The transmitting base station may transmit the sensing configuration to the SF.

[0140] The transmitting base station may sweep a beam. It may transmit multiple beams in different directions. It may perform beam sweeping using multiple beams. The transmitting base station may select multiple beams as sensing beams from multiple communication beams. The transmitting base station may determine beams to be used for sensing using multiple communication beams with the receiving UE, for example, using information about the receiving UE received from the SF. For example, a communication beam through which one receiving UE is communicating data and a beam in a nearby direction may be used as sensing beams. For example, the transmitting base station may use communication beams through which multiple receiving UEs are communicating data as sensing beams. The transmitting base station may sweep these multiple sensing beams. The transmitting base station may transmit sensing resources set for each beam using the determined multiple sensing beams. The transmitting base station may set sensing configuration including sensing resource information, QCL information, etc. for the multiple beams. In this way, it is possible to derive sensing configurations to be used to detect sensing targets. The transmitting base station may transmit the sensing configurations to the SF.

[0141] It has been disclosed that the UE reports measurement results of a communication beam to a transmitting base station, and the transmitting base station uses the measurement results to determine a sensing beam. The UE may transmit measurement results of multiple paths for the same beam to the base station. The UE may transmit measurement results for each path to the base station. The UE may transmit measurement results of LOS and / or NLOS to the base station. The UE may transmit measurement results of LOS and NLOS for each path to the base station. The UE may transmit information indicating whether the measurement results for each path are LOS or NLOS. As another method, the UE may transmit information indicating whether the measurement results transmitted to the base station are NLOS or not, by including the information in the measurement results. The UE may transmit information indicating the probability or likelihood that the measurement results are NLOS, by including the information in the measurement results. The UE may transmit information indicating whether the measurement results are LOS, by including the information in the measurement results. The UE may transmit information indicating the probability or likelihood that the measurement results are LOS, by including the information in the measurement results. The UE may transmit information indicating whether the measurement results are LOS, by including the information in the measurement results. The UE may transmit information indicating the probability or likelihood that the measurement results are LOS, by including the information in the measurement results. The LOS may be FAP (First Arriving Path). The UE may assume that the FAP is LOS.

[0142] The transmitting base station may select a beam having a non-linear path as a sensing beam. In sensing, the receiving UE may measure the non-linear path from the transmitting base station. The receiving UE can receive and measure reflected waves from the target.

[0143] A sensing configuration method is disclosed, in which the sensing configuration is shared between a transmitting node and a receiving node, for example, between a transmitting base station and one or more receiving UEs.

[0144] The SF transmits a sensing configuration request to the base station. Upon receiving the request, the base station performs sensing configuration. The base station transmits sensing configuration information to the SF. The SF transmits the sensing configuration information to one or more receiving UEs. The SF may transmit the sensing configuration information to one or more receiving UEs via the base station serving the receiving UEs. In this way, the receiving UE can obtain the sensing configuration. The sensing configuration can be shared between the transmitting base station and the receiving UE.

[0145] The transmitting base station may change the sensing setting and transmit the changed sensing setting to the SF. The SF transmits the changed sensing setting information to one or more receiving UEs. In this way, the receiving UEs can obtain the changed sensing setting. The transmitting base station and the receiving UEs can share the sensing setting.

[0146] In the method disclosed above, the transmitting base station determines a sensing beam, and sensing setting information including sensing resources to be transmitted by the sensing beam is transmitted from the transmitting base station to the SF and then transmitted from the SF to the receiving UE. Even when the sensing beam is changed, the sensing setting information including sensing resources to be transmitted by the changed sensing beam is transmitted from the transmitting base station to the SF and then transmitted from the SF to the receiving UE.

[0147] For example, if the sensing target moves, it is necessary to change the sensing beam from the transmitting base station to track the sensing target. However, in the method disclosed above, sensing setting information is transmitted from the transmitting base station to the receiving UE via the SF. This makes it time-consuming to change the sensing beam. Furthermore, it is not possible to issue precise timing instructions from the SF to the receiving UE in units of one slot or one symbol. These problems result in problems such as a deterioration in sensing accuracy and an inability to track a moving sensing target, i.e., difficulty in tracking the sensing target.

[0148] A method for solving such problems is disclosed.

[0149] The transmitting base station manages the sensing beam (sensing beam management (BM)). A sensing BM method is disclosed.

[0150] Sensing BM is performed between the transmitting base station and the UE. The number of UEs is not limited to one, and may be multiple. The SF may request the transmitting base station to perform sensing BM. Upon receiving the request, the SF may perform sensing BM between the transmitting base station and the UE.

[0151] The transmitting base station performs sensing BM configuration for the UE. A sensing resource set consisting of one or more sensing resources may be provided for the sensing BM. The sensing BM configuration may include at least one of a sensing resource set configuration used for the sensing BM, a measurement configuration, and a measurement result reporting configuration. Each of the one or more sensing resources included in the sensing resource set is associated with a sensing beam candidate and is transmitted using the associated beam. The transmitting base station transmits sensing BM configuration information, which is information indicating the contents of the sensing BM configuration, to the UE. The sensing BM configuration information may include multiple pieces of configuration information. For example, the sensing BM configuration information may include resource set configuration information indicating the sensing resources included in the sensing resource set, resource set measurement configuration information indicating the configuration contents related to measurements of the sensing resource set, and resource set measurement result reporting configuration information indicating the configuration contents related to reporting measurement results of the sensing resource set. For example, the sensing BM configuration information may include information for identifying the sensing BM configuration. This information may be, for example, an identifier. These pieces of configuration information may be transmitted together or separately, which allows the transmitting base station and the UE to share the sensing BM resource configuration, measurement configuration, and reporting configuration.

[0152] One or more sensing BM settings may be made from the transmitting base station to the UE. One or more pieces of sensing BM setting information may be transmitted from the transmitting base station to the UE. For example, a different sensing BM setting may be made for each sensing service. For example, even when different KPIs (Key Performance Indicators) are required for the sensing services, a sensing BM setting suitable for each service can be made.

[0153] Four examples of information included in the sensing settings are disclosed below.

[0154] (1) Information about the configuration of a sensing resource set, (2) Information about the configuration of measurements of sensing resources, (3) Information about reporting of measurement results of sensing resources, and (4) A combination of (1) to (3).

[0155] The information regarding the configuration of the sensing resource set (1) may include, for example, an identifier of the sensing resource set and information regarding the configuration of the sensing resources included in the sensing resource set.

[0156] Eight examples of information relating to sensing resource configuration are disclosed below.

[0157] (1-1) Information about resources used for sensing BM. (1-2) Allocation information of sensing resources. (1-3) Period and offset information of sensing resources. (1-4) Start time, end time, and sensing resource transmission period information of sensing resources. (1-5) Information about beams used for sensing. (1-6) QCL information of sensing resources. (1-7) Information about power of sensing resources. (1-8) Combination of (1-1) to (1-7).

[0158] (1-1) may be, for example, information about the frequency used for the sensing BM. For example, (1-1) may be information about the RS used for the sensing BM. The information about the frequency used for the sensing BM may be, for example, information about the frequency band, frequency layer, BWP, etc. A frequency band, frequency layer, BWP, etc. may be provided for the sensing BM. These may be dedicated to the sensing BM. By specifying the frequency used for the sensing BM, it is possible to reduce the complexity of processing in nodes that perform sensing processing, such as UEs and base stations. The information about the RS used for the sensing BM may be, for example, an RS, PRS, SSB, CSI-RS, etc. provided for sensing. The receiving UE can recognize what sensing resources it should receive.

[0159] (1-2) may be, for example, time-frequency information for mapping sensing resources. Examples of time information include symbols, slots, radio frames, etc. for mapping sensing resources. Alternatively, it may be time units such as seconds, hours, days, or years. Examples of frequency information include subcarriers, resource blocks, subbands, BWPs, carrier frequencies, and sensing frequency layers for mapping sensing resources.

[0160] The sensing BM may be supported by the SCell (which may be a CC). The sensing BM may be supported by the SCG. The sensing BM may be supported by the PSCell. An SCell, SCG, and PSCell dedicated to the sensing BM may be provided. For example, the complexity of the sensing BM process during communication can be reduced by performing communication using the PCell and performing the sensing BM using the SCell.

[0161] The sensing resource allocation information of (1-2) may be information for identifying the SCell, SCG, or PSCell. The receiving UE can receive configuration information of the sensing resources in the SCell, SCG, or PSCell.

[0162] The sensing resource may be transmitted periodically. (1-3) may be the period and offset information of the periodically transmitted sensing resource.

[0163] (1-4) is information on the start time, end time, and transmission period of the sensing resource transmission. For example, the sensing resource is transmitted periodically during the transmission period. The unit of time may be a symbol, a slot, a radio frame, or a second, an hour, a day, a year, etc.

[0164] (1-5) is information about the beam used for the sensing BM that transmits the sensing resource. An identifier may be set for the beam used for the sensing BM. The receiving UE can identify the beam used for the sensing BM. For example, the identifier used for the communication beam may be the identifier of the beam used for the sensing BM. It is possible to indicate the association with the communication beam, and also to utilize the settings of the communication beam.

[0165] (1-6) is information on a resource that has a QCL relationship with the sensing resource. For example, the RS for the sensing BM may be information on a communication RS that has a QCL relationship with the sensing resource. For example, the RS for the sensing BM may be information on a sensing RS that has a QCL relationship with the sensing resource. Focusing conditions may be included as a type of information on the viewpoint of whether the QCL information can be considered to be the same beam. For example, it is possible to determine whether the beam formed by the antenna used for sensing can be considered to be the same beam based on the focusing conditions. This can facilitate processing, for example, by using measurement results on communication resources that have a QCL relationship with the sensing resource or measurement results on the sensing RS as a substitute for measurement results on the sensing resource used in the sensing BM.

[0166] For example, when configuring a communication RS, an RS for a sensing BM that has a QCL relationship with the RS may be configured. For example, when configuring a sensing RS, an RS for a sensing BM that has a QCL relationship with the RS may be configured. This may be notified to the UE as configuration information for the communication RS or the sensing RS. In this way, processing can be simplified, for example, by using measurement results of sensing resources used for the sensing BM as a substitute for measurement results related to communication resources or measurement results of the sensing RS.

[0167] (1-7) is information about the transmission power of the sensing resource. For example, the transmission power information may be the absolute value of the transmission power. For example, the transmission information may be the difference between the sensing resource and another channel or another RS. The receiving UE can recognize the transmission power of the sensing resource. For example, the receiving UE may use the transmission power information to derive the path loss. The path loss may be used as a sensing measurement index.

[0168] Four examples of information regarding the measurement settings of sensing resources (2) are disclosed below.

[0169] (2-1) Information about measurement gaps used for sensing BM. (2-2) Information about windows for measuring sensing resources. (2-3) Information about sensing resource measurement indices. (2-4) A combination of (2-1) to (2-3).

[0170] A measurement gap may be provided for the sensing BM. (2-1) is, for example, the measurement gap period, start time, end time, etc. for the sensing BM. The unit of time may be a symbol, slot, radio frame, or second, hour, day, year, etc. The measurement gap for the sensing BM is not limited to one, and multiple measurement gaps may be set. The measurement gap for the sensing BM is effective, for example, when the sensing BM is performed at a frequency different from the communication frequency. The receiving UE can switch from the communication frequency to the sensing BM frequency during the gap, making it possible to perform measurements of the sensing BM.

[0171] A window may be set for measuring the sensing BM. (2-2) is, for example, the period, start time, end time, etc. of the sensing BM window. The unit of time may be a symbol, slot, radio frame, or second, hour, day, year, etc. The sensing BM window is not limited to one, and multiple windows may be set. The sensing BM window is effective, for example, when performing sensing BM at a communication frequency. For example, the receiving UE may not need to receive communication channels or signals in the sensing BM window. The receiving UE can perform sensing BM measurements in the sensing BM window.

[0172] As examples of information regarding the sensing resource measurement index (2-3), 12 items are disclosed below.

[0173] (2-3-1) RSRP. (2-3-2) RSRQ. (2-3-3) Doppler frequency. (2-3-4) AOA (Angle Of Arrival). (2-3-5) AOD (Angle Of Departure). (2-3-6) TDOA (Time Difference Of Arrival). (2-3-7) CIR (Channel Impulse Response). (2-3-8) PDP (Power Delay Profile). (2-3-9) Sensing measurement time. (2-3-10) SIR (Signal to Interference Ratio). (2-3-11) SINR (Signal to Interference plus Noise Ratio). (2-3-12) Combination of (2-3-1) to (2-3-11).

[0174] It is possible to set in the receiving UE which indicators to measure as the measurement of the sensing BM. By receiving this information, the receiving UE can recognize which indicators to measure as the measurement of the sensing BM.

[0175] Furthermore, the information on the sensing resource measurement configuration may include information on the sensing resource. Information on the sensing resource on which the sensing resource measurement is to be performed may be included. For example, when multiple sensing resources are configured, it becomes possible to identify which sensing resource is to be measured.

[0176] When the receiving UE receives the sensing resource measurement configuration, it becomes possible to perform measurements of the sensing BM.

[0177] Three examples of information regarding the reporting of the measurement results of the sensing resource (3) are disclosed below.

[0178] (3-1) Report trigger. (3-2) Information about measurement results. (3-3) Combination of (3-1) to (3-2).

[0179] (3-1) may be, for example, information indicating whether the timing for reporting the measurement results of the sensing resources is periodic or event-triggered. If the timing for reporting the measurement results of the sensing resources is periodic, it may be information such as the measurement result reporting period, start time, and end time. If the timing for reporting the measurement results of the sensing resources is event-triggered, it may be information regarding the conditions for reporting the measurement results of the sensing resources. The conditions may be, for example, a predetermined threshold for the measurement index of the sensing resources. For example, an RSRP threshold may be set. The receiving UE may report the measurement results when the RSRP is equal to or greater than the threshold. The conditions may be, for example, when the radio wave propagation conditions or channel conditions change. For example, the measurement results may be reported when the LOS or NLOS path changes. For example, the measurement results may be reported when the FAP changes.

[0180] Alternatively, in the case of an event trigger, the receiving UE may report that the event has occurred. The node receiving the report can recognize that the event has occurred. For example, the report can be used to change the sensing BM setting. This allows for more appropriate sensing BM processing to be performed.

[0181] (3-2) may be, for example, information about the transmitting base station, information about the measured sensing resource, information about the beam used for the measured sensing BM, a sensing resource measurement index, etc. (3-2) may be an identifier of the transmitting base station, an identifier of the sensing resource, or an identifier of the beam used for the sensing BM. A node that receives the measurement results can identify which sensing resource of which beam is used for which sensing BM of which transmitting base station.

[0182] The sensing BM setting, sensing resource set setting, sensing resource setting, sensing measurement setting, and sensing measurement result reporting setting may be configured with one or more of these setting information. Information for identifying the setting or information may be provided for each setting or each piece of information. For example, the identifying information may be an identifier. For example, the transmitting base station may configure multiple sensing BM settings and setting information for the UE, and notify the UE of the setting or information to be activated from the settings or setting information. The UE can identify which setting or information is being used from the multiple sensing BM settings and setting information. In this way, the sensing BM setting may be changed depending on the measurement environment, for example, enabling flexible sensing BM setting.

[0183] The UE measures the sensing resource set. The UE measures the sensing resource set indicated by the resource set configuration information included in the sensing BM configuration information. The UE may measure the resource set using the resource set measurement configuration information included in the sensing BM configuration information. The UE transmits the measurement results of the resource set to the transmitting base station. The UE transmits the measurement results of one or more sensing resources included in the resource set to the transmitting base station. The sensing resource measurement results indicate the reception quality of the sensing resource, and may be, for example, received power. The UE may transmit the measurement results of the resource set to the transmitting base station using the resource set measurement result reporting configuration information included in the sensing BM configuration information. The measurement results of the sensing resource may be transmitted in association with the identifier of the UE that performed the measurement. The measurement results of the sensing resource may be transmitted in association with information identifying the sensing resource. The transmitting base station can recognize which UE the measurement results are from and which sensing resource the measurement results are for. In this way, the transmitting base station can recognize the measurement results of the sensing resource set in the UE.

[0184] Measurement of the sensing resource set may be performed continuously. Even when a UE repeatedly measures the sensing resource set after receiving sensing BM configuration information once, the measurement of the sensing resource set may be performed using the resource set measurement configuration information included in the sensing BM configuration information. The sensing BM configuration information may include configuration information for repeated measurement of the sensing resource set. The configuration information may be included in the sensing resource set measurement configuration information. The configuration information may be, for example, information regarding a measurement period. For example, it may be a measurement period or an offset. The configuration information may be, for example, information regarding the number of measurements. For example, if the configuration information is not transmitted to the UE, continuous measurement may not be performed. This method enables the transmitting base station to configure continuous measurement. Transmission of sensing resource measurement results to the transmitting base station may be performed continuously. Even in this case, transmission of sensing resource measurement results to the transmitting base station may be performed using resource set measurement result reporting configuration information included in the sensing BM configuration. The sensing BM configuration information may include repeated measurement result reporting configuration information for the sensing resource set. The reporting configuration information may be included in reporting configuration information of the sensing resource set measurement result. The reporting configuration information may be, for example, information about a reporting period. For example, it may be a reporting period or an offset. The reporting configuration information may be, for example, information about the number of reports. For example, if the reporting configuration information is not transmitted to the UE, reporting may not be continued. In this way, the transmitting base station can continuously obtain the measurement result of the sensing resource set from the UE.

[0185] The transmitting base station determines the sensing beam. The transmitting base station may use the measurement results of the sensing resource set received from the UE to determine the sensing beam. The sensing beam may be a beam within the sensing resource set.

[0186] The transmitting base station may determine the receiving UE. The number of receiving UEs is not limited to one, and may be multiple. The transmitting base station may use measurement results of the sensing resource set received from the UE to determine the receiving UE. The receiving UE may be determined from within the UE.

[0187] The transmitting base station transmits information about the sensing beam to the receiving UE. An identifier may be provided for the sensing resource in the sensing resource set. The identifier may be included in the sensing resource set configuration. The information about the sensing beam may include, for example, a sensing resource identifier. For example, the sensing resource identifier may be TCI (Transmission Configuration Indication) state information. As another method, information indicating the corresponding activation / deactivation (sometimes referred to as act / deact) for each sensing resource in the sensing resource set may be provided. The information about the sensing beam may include, for example, information indicating act / deact for each sensing resource. In the case of act, the sensing beam is used, and in the case of deact, the sensing beam is not used. In the case of deact, measurement of the sensing BM may be performed. It is possible to set a sensing beam for the receiving UE.

[0188] The receiving UE uses the received information about the sensing beam to receive sensing resources transmitted by the sensing beam and performs sensing measurement. The sensing measurement may use sensing configuration information received from the SF. The sensing configuration information may include sensing measurement configuration information and sensing measurement result reporting configuration information.

[0189] The receiving UE transmits the sensing measurement result to the transmitting base station. The sensing measurement result may be a measurement result of the sensing resource of the sensing beam used for sensing. The transmitting base station transmits the sensing measurement result to the SF. The sensing measurement result may be transmitted in association with the identifier of the UE that performed the measurement. The sensing measurement result may be transmitted in association with information specifying the measured sensing resource. The transmitting base station can recognize which UE's measurement result is the measurement result and which sensing resource the measurement result is for. The sensing measurement result may be reported using sensing configuration information received from the SF. In this way, the transmitting base station can obtain the sensing measurement result of the receiving UE.

[0190] The transmitting base station transmits sensing measurement results to the SF. The sensing measurement results may be transmitted in association with the identifier of the UE that performed the measurement. The sensing measurement results may be transmitted in association with information identifying the measured sensing resource. The sensing measurement results may be transmitted in association with information identifying the transmitting base station. An interface may be provided between the transmitting base station and the SF. The interface may be used to transmit the sensing measurement results. The transmitting base station may transmit the sensing measurement results to the SF for each receiving UE. For example, the transmitting base station may transmit the sensing measurement results to the SF immediately after receiving the sensing measurement results from the receiving UE. The SF can obtain the sensing measurement results from the receiving UE at an early stage. Alternatively, the transmitting base station may transmit the sensing measurement results of multiple receiving UEs in a single message to the SF. This reduces the amount of signaling between the transmitting base station and the SF.

[0191] The receiving UE may transmit the sensing measurement results to the SF. An interface between the UE and the SF may be provided, and the interface may be used to transmit the sensing measurement results.

[0192] The SF derives sensing results, such as three-dimensional object detection results for a target, six-dimensional (three-dimensional coordinates + three axis directions) object detection results, object shape, size, position, speed, movement direction, water level, humidity, air pressure, heartbeat, etc. The SF may use sensing measurement results acquired from one or more receiving UEs to derive the sensing results. In this way, the SF can derive the sensing results.

[0193] The sensing beam may be changed. The transmitting base station may change the sensing beam. The transmitting base station may change the sensing beam using the measurement result of the sensing resource set used for the sensing BM from the UE. The transmitting base station may change the sensing beam using the sensing measurement result from the receiving UE. For example, if the sensing measurement result from the receiving UE is smaller than a threshold (e.g., it may be below a predetermined threshold) and the measurement result of any sensing resource in the sensing resource set from the UE is larger than a threshold (e.g., it may be above a predetermined threshold), the sensing beam is changed to a beam that transmits the sensing resource that is larger than the threshold. For example, if either one of these conditions is satisfied, the beam may be changed to a beam that transmits the sensing resource with the largest value. In this way, the sensing beam can be changed to a beam that provides a good sensing measurement result. For example, the sensing measurement result may be received power, and the beam may be changed to one that provides a good received power.

[0194] The receiving UE may be changed. The transmitting base station may change the receiving UE. The transmitting base station may change the receiving UE using the measurement results of the sensing resource set used for the sensing BM from the UE. The transmitting base station may change the receiving UE using the sensing results from the receiving UE. For example, a receiving UE whose sensing measurement result is smaller than a threshold (e.g., may be equal to or smaller than a predetermined threshold) is changed to a UE whose measurement result of the sensing resource transmitted by the sensing beam is larger than a threshold (e.g., may be equal to or larger than a predetermined threshold). For example, when the sensing beam is changed, all UEs whose measurement result of the changed sensing beam is larger than a threshold (e.g., may be equal to or larger than a predetermined threshold) are changed to receiving UEs. In this way, the receiving UE that measures the sensing beam can be changed to a UE whose sensing measurement result is good.

[0195] The transmitting base station transmits information about the changed sensing beam to the receiving UE. Information about the sensing beam before the change may also be transmitted. The method for transmitting information about the sensing beam disclosed above may be applied as appropriate. The sensing beam can be changed. The changed sensing beam can be set for the receiving UE.

[0196] The receiving UE uses the received information regarding the changed sensing beam to receive the sensing resource transmitted in the changed sensing beam and perform sensing measurements.

[0197] The methods disclosed above may be applied as appropriate to transmit the measurement results of the changed sensing beam from the receiving UE to the transmitting base station or SF, and to derive the sensing results in the SF. The transmitting base station can obtain the sensing measurement results of the changed sensing beam by the receiving UE. In the SF, the sensing results can be derived using the measurement results of the changed sensing beam. Even if the sensing target moves and the beam suitable for sensing changes, the sensing beam can be changed to an appropriate beam, and sensing measurement results using the changed sensing beam can be obtained, and sensing results can be derived using the changed sensing beam.

[0198] The method of transmitting information regarding sensing from the transmitting base station to the UE or receiving UE, for example, information regarding sensing BM setting information or sensing beams, may use RRC signaling, for example. For example, a new RRC message for sensing may be provided. For example, the information may be included in an RRC Reconfiguration message and transmitted. This allows for the transmission of more information. As another transmission method, MAC signaling may be used. For example, new MAC signaling for sensing may be provided. For example, the information may be included in a MAC CE and transmitted. A MAC CE for sensing may be provided. For example, the information may be included in a MAC PDU and transmitted. A MAC PDU for sensing may be provided. This allows for earlier transmission. As another transmission method, L1 / L2 signaling may be used. For example, the information may be included in DCI. For example, the information may be transmitted on the PDCCH. A DCI for sensing may be provided. This allows for earlier transmission.

[0199] These transmission methods may be combined. For example, RRC signaling may be used to transmit sensing BM configuration information, and DCI may be used to transmit information about the sensing beam. A large amount of information can be configured in the UE as the sensing BM configuration including the sensing resource set, and the sensing beam can be transmitted earlier. For example, when the sensing target moves quickly, the sensing beam can be configured and changed earlier.

[0200] The method of transmitting sensing information from a UE or a receiving UE to a transmitting base station, for example, measurement results of a sensing resource set or sensing measurement results, may use RRC signaling, for example. For example, a new RRC message for sensing may be provided. For example, the sensing information may be included in a Measurement Report message and transmitted, allowing for the transmission of more information. MAC signaling may be used as another transmission method. For example, new MAC signaling for sensing may be provided. For example, the sensing information may be included in a MAC CE and transmitted. A MAC CE for sensing may be provided. For example, the sensing information may be included in a MAC PDU and transmitted. A MAC PDU for sensing may be provided. Early transmission is possible. L1 / L2 signaling may be used as another transmission method. For example, the sensing information may be included in UCI. For example, the sensing information may be transmitted on the PUCCH. For example, the sensing information may be transmitted on the PUSCH. A UCI for sensing may be provided, which allows for earlier transmission.

[0201] These transmission methods may be combined. For example, UCI may be used to transmit the measurement results of the sensing resource set, and RRC signaling may be used to transmit the sensing measurement results. The measurement results of the sensing resource set can be transmitted earlier, and a large amount of information can be transmitted as the sensing measurement results. For example, when the sensing target is moving quickly, the sensing beam can be set or changed earlier.

[0202] The UE that performs sensing BM (which may be a UE for which sensing BM setting is performed) may be determined by the transmitting base station or by the SF. When the SF determines the UE that performs sensing BM, the SF may transmit information about the UE to the transmitting base station. The transmitting base station may request information about the UE that performs sensing BM from the SF.

[0203] The UE performing the sensing BM may be, for example, a UE under the control of the transmitting base station, a UE corresponding to a service that performs sensing, or a sensing-related UE.

[0204] UEs present in the sensing area are derived from information about the sensing area. UEs present in the vicinity of the sensing area, UEs capable of performing sensing processing, or UEs capable of receiving sensing resources may be derived. These UEs are referred to as sensing-related UEs (sensing-related communication terminals). Information about a predetermined area may be used as information about the sensing area. One or more UEs may be derived. Sensing-related UEs may be derived as candidates for UEs that receive sensing resources (sometimes referred to as receiving UEs).

[0205] The LMF may derive sensing-related UEs from information about the sensing area. The LMF knows the location information of the UEs. Using the LMF, sensing-related UEs can be identified. The sensing-related UEs may be UEs that have location information within a predetermined time period. The sensing-related UEs may be UEs that have the most recent location information. The sensing-related UEs may be UEs that are currently performing location management or location measurement. Using UEs with more recent location information enables more accurate sensing.

[0206] The SF may request the LMF to derive sensing-associated UEs. The SF transmits information about the sensing area to the LMF, and the LMF uses the information to derive sensing-associated UEs. The LMF transmits information about the derived sensing-associated UEs to the SF. The SF may transmit information about the sensing-associated UEs to the transmitting base station. The transmitting base station may request the LMF to derive sensing-associated UEs. The LMF may transmit information about the sensing-associated UEs to the transmitting base station. The transmitting base station may request information about the sensing-associated UEs from the SF. The SF may transmit information about the sensing-associated UEs received from the LMF to the transmitting base station.

[0207] Information about the sensing service may be stored in the UDM or PCF. The information about the sensing service may include, for example, information for identifying the sensing service. For example, it may include a service identifier. The information may be associated with information about the UE. For example, it may be stored together with information about the UE. The information about the UE may be, for example, subscription information about the UE. The SF receives information about the sensing service from an external device or an AF. The SF may request information about UEs corresponding to the sensing service from the UDM or PCF. The request may include information about the sensing service. The UDM or PCF may derive UEs corresponding to the sensing service using information about the sensing service. The UDM or PCF may transmit information about UEs corresponding to the derived sensing service to the SF. The SF becomes able to recognize UEs corresponding to the sensing service and derive UEs to perform sensing BM.

[0208] The other NF may request information about UEs corresponding to the sensing service from the UDM or PCF, and the UDM or PCF may transmit the derived information about UEs corresponding to the sensing service to the other NF, which may be, for example, an SMF.

[0209] 15 is a diagram showing an example of a sensing BM sequence. In ST1501, the SF transmits a sensing request to the transmitting base station. The request includes sensing setting information and information about sensing-related UEs. The sensing setting information may be, for example, sensing measurement setting information, sensing measurement result reporting setting information, etc.

[0210] In ST1505, the transmitting base station that has received the sensing request performs sensing BM configuration. In ST1511, the transmitting base station transmits sensing configuration information and sensing BM configuration information to one or more sensing-associated UEs (UE #1, UE #2, UE #3). The sensing BM configuration information includes, for example, resource set configuration information, resource set measurement configuration information, and resource set measurement result reporting configuration information. The sensing BM configuration information may include, for example, information for identifying the sensing BM configuration. This information may be, for example, an identifier. The sensing-associated UE receives the sensing BM configuration information. The sensing-associated UE can recognize that it is the UE that will perform sensing BM measurement.

[0211] In ST1512, the transmitting base station transmits BM resources, which are sensing resources of the sensing resource set corresponding to the beam used for the configured sensing BM. In ST1513, the sensing-associated UE that has received the sensing BM setting information measures the sensing resource set. The sensing BM setting received from the transmitting base station may be used for this measurement. The sensing-associated UE may store the measurement results. In ST1514, the sensing-associated UE transmits the measurement results to the transmitting base station. The sensing BM setting received from the transmitting base station may be used for this transmission.

[0212] Transmission of sensing resources of the sensing resource set corresponding to the beam used for the sensing BM may be continued. Measurements for the sensing BM and transmission of measurement results may be continued. These may be performed according to the sensing BM configuration. For example, if periodic configuration of sensing resources, periodic measurement, and periodic reporting are configured in the sensing BM configuration, measurements and transmission of measurement results may be performed continuously at the same period.

[0213] In ST1521, the transmitting base station receives the measurement results from the sensing-associated UE and determines the sensing beam using the measurement results. In ST1522, the transmitting base station uses the measurement results to determine the receiving UE (UE #1, UE #2) that will perform the sensing measurement. The receiving UE may be selected from the sensing-associated UE. In ST1523, the transmitting base station transmits information about the sensing beam to the receiving UE. For example, this may be information indicating the sensing beam, such as an identifier of the sensing resource transmitted by the sensing beam. The receiving UE receives the information about the sensing beam. The receiving UE can recognize that it is the UE that will perform the sensing measurement.

[0214] In ST1524, the transmitting base station transmits sensing resources corresponding to the sensing beam. In ST1525, the receiving UE that has received the information about the sensing beam measures the sensing resources of the sensing beam. This measurement may use the sensing configuration received from the transmitting base station. The receiving UE may store the measurement results. In ST1526, the receiving UE transmits the sensing measurement results to the transmitting base station. The transmitting base station can obtain the sensing measurement results from the receiving UE.

[0215] In ST1527, the transmitting base station transmits the sensing measurement result to the SF. The sensing measurement results of multiple receiving UEs may be transmitted together. In ST1528, the SF derives the sensing result using the received sensing measurement result. For example, location information of the receiving UE and location information of the transmitting base station may be used for this derivation. The location information of the receiving UE and the transmitting base station may be acquired, for example, from the LMF. The location information of the receiving UE may be derived by the receiving UE and transmitted to the SF, for example. This transmission may be performed via the transmitting base station. The location information may be transmitted together with the sensing measurement result. The location information is not limited to two-dimensional information and may be three-dimensional information.

[0216] In ST1529, the transmitting base station continues to transmit the sensing resources of the sensing resource set corresponding to the beam used for the configured sensing BM. In ST1530, the sensing-associated UE continues to measure the sensing resource set. In ST1531, the sensing-associated UE continues to transmit the measurement results to the transmitting base station.

[0217] In ST1532, the transmitting base station, having received the measurement results from the sensing-related UE, determines the sensing beam using the measurement results. The sensing beam may or may not be changed. This figure shows the case where it is changed. In ST1533, the transmitting base station uses the measurement results to determine the receiving UE that will perform the sensing measurement. The receiving UE may or may not be changed. This figure shows the case where it is not changed. In ST1534, the transmitting base station transmits information about the newly determined sensing beam to the newly determined receiving UE. The receiving UE can recognize that it is the UE that will perform the sensing measurement and the new sensing beam.

[0218] In ST1535, the transmitting base station transmits sensing resources corresponding to the changed sensing beam. The receiving UE that has received information about the changed sensing beam measures the sensing resources of the changed sensing beam in ST1536. The measurement may use the sensing configuration received from the transmitting base station. The receiving UE may store the measurement results. In ST1537, the receiving UE transmits the sensing measurement results of the changed sensing beam to the transmitting base station. The transmitting base station can obtain the sensing measurement results of the changed sensing beam from the receiving UE.

[0219] In ST1538, the transmitting base station transmits the sensing measurement result to the SF. The sensing measurement results of multiple receiving UEs may be transmitted together. In ST1539, the SF derives the sensing result using the received sensing measurement result. In this way, the SF can derive the sensing result using the sensing measurement result of the changed sensing beam.

[0220] In this way, the sensing BM can appropriately change the sensing beam and receiving UE. Therefore, even if, for example, the sensing target moves, the receiving UE moves, the radio wave propagation conditions between the transmitting base station and the sensing target deteriorate, or the radio wave propagation conditions between the sensing target and the receiving UE deteriorate, better sensing of the sensing target becomes possible by changing the sensing beam or receiving UE.

[0221] The processing for terminating sensing will be described. The SF decides to terminate the sensing requested in ST1501. In ST1541, the SF transmits information indicating the termination of sensing to the transmitting base station. This information may include, for example, information about the requested sensing. For example, it may include information for identifying which sensing request it is.

[0222] In ST1542, the transmitting base station that has received the sensing end transmits information indicating the sensing end to the sensing-associated UE. This information may include, for example, information indicating the release of the sensing configuration and information indicating the release of the sensing BM configuration. This information may also include, for example, information for specifying the sensing configuration to be released and information for specifying the sensing BM configuration to be released. In this way, the sensing-associated UE can recognize which sensing configuration and which sensing BM configuration to terminate or release.

[0223] In ST1543, the sensing-associated UE ends the sensing measurement and ends the measurement of the sensing resource set of the sensing BM. The sensing configuration may be released. In ST1544, the transmitting base station ends the transmission of the sensing resource set of the sensing BM and ends the sensing BM. The sensing configuration may be released. In this way, it is possible to have the sensing-associated UE and the transmitting base station end sensing, and to avoid unnecessary processing.

[0224] By using a sequence such as the example shown in this figure, sensing using a sensing BM becomes possible.

[0225] The transmitting base station may transmit information regarding the beam to be used for the determined sensing BM to the SF. The transmitting base station may transmit the determined sensing BM setting to the SF. The transmitting base station may transmit information regarding the determined sensing beam to the SF. The transmitting base station may transmit setting information for the determined sensing beam to the SF. The SF will be able to recognize this information. For example, the SF can adjust sensing resource settings, etc., with sensing processing using other base stations. For example, it is advisable to make adjustments to reduce the effects of interference. More appropriate sensing processing can be performed in the network.

[0226] A beam used for communication may be used for the sensing beammaster. Measurement results of a communication beam may be used for the sensing beammaster. A specific UE measures a communication beam and transmits the measurement results to a transmitting base station. A beam used for communication may be used for the sensing beammaster. The sensing beam may be determined from among the beams used for the sensing beammaster. As a method of using a communication beam for the sensing beammaster or sensing, for example, information regarding the QCL with the communication beam resource (e.g., SSB or RS) may be set when configuring the sensing resource. For example, an identifier identifying the communication beam resource may be included as information regarding the QCL. The receiving UE may treat the communication beam configured with information regarding the QCL as equivalent to the sensing beammaster or a beam used for sensing. In this way, the beam used for communication may be used for the sensing beammaster or sensing. For example, the sensing process can be simplified by eliminating the need to configure a separate beam for sensing and by utilizing the measurement results of the communication beam.

[0227] A beam set for sensing may be used for the sensing BM. The measurement results of the beam may be used for the sensing BM. The UE measures the beam and transmits the measurement results to the transmitting base station. A beam set for sensing may be used for the sensing beam. The sensing beam may be determined from among the beams used for the sensing BM. As a method of using the sensing BM or the beam for sensing, for example, it is preferable to set information regarding the resources of the beam set for sensing (e.g., SSB or RS) in the sensing resource setting. A beam set for sensing may be used for the sensing BM or sensing. The sensing BM and the sensing beam can be set differently from the communication beam. For example, more accurate sensing is possible.

[0228] As described above, continuous measurement and reporting of the sensing resource set for the sensing BM has been disclosed. Measurement and reporting of the sensing resource set for the sensing BM may be performed prior to the sensing measurement. For example, the measurement period and report period of the sensing BM may be aligned with the sensing period. For example, the measurement period and report period of the sensing BM may be n times or 1 / n times (n is a natural number) the sensing measurement period. The offset of the measurement timing and report timing of the sensing BM and the offset of the sensing measurement timing may be configured so that measurement and reporting of the sensing resources for the sensing BM are performed prior to the sensing measurement. These settings may be configured in the sensing BM configuration and the sensing measurement configuration. This allows the transmitting base station to use the measurement results of the sensing resource set in a timely manner and appropriately determine the sensing beam.

[0229] A method for determining a sensing beam is disclosed. For example, among the measurement results of the sensing resource set of the sensing BM, the beam with the best measurement result may be selected as the sensing beam. The receiving UE may be the UE that transmitted the measurement result. A good sensing measurement result can be obtained. For example, the beam with the best average value of the measurement results of a predetermined number of UEs, starting from the largest measurement results, may be selected as the sensing beam. The predetermined number of UEs may be selected as the receiving UE. For example, among the beams for which measurement results greater than a predetermined threshold (e.g., equal to or greater than the predetermined threshold) have been obtained, the beam with the largest number of UEs may be selected as the sensing beam. The UE that transmitted a measurement result of the beam greater than the predetermined threshold (e.g., equal to or greater than the predetermined threshold) may be selected as the receiving UE. In this way, a good sensing measurement result can be obtained using not only one but multiple receiving UEs.

[0230] The measurement index used to determine the sensing beam is, for example, the RSRP, RSRQ, SIR, or SINR of the sensing resource. Other indices may be used. A combination of these may also be used. The transmitting base station may transmit the measurement index to the UE. The measurement index may also be transmitted by being included in information on the measurement configuration and reporting configuration of the sensing BM.

[0231] Sensing measurement results from one or more receiving UEs may be used to determine the sensing beam. Both the measurement results of the sensing resource set of the UE's sensing BM and the sensing measurement results from the receiving UE may be used. The sensing measurement results may be used in the sensing BM. More accurate sensing results can be obtained.

[0232] The measurement of the sensing BM may be triggered. For example, the measurement of the sensing BM may be performed when the sensing measurement result of the receiving UE falls below a predetermined threshold. The measurement index may be, for example, the RSRP, RSRQ, SIR, or SINR of the sensing resource. Other indexes may also be used, or a combination of these may be used. The transmitting base station may instruct the receiving UE to measure the sensing BM using the sensing measurement result received from the receiving UE.

[0233] As described above, it has been disclosed that a beam used for communication may be used for a sensing BM. A sensing BM configuration method when using a beam used for communication is disclosed. The sensing resources included in the sensing resource set of the sensing BM may be an RS (e.g., a CSI-RS) or an SSB used for communication. As a sensing BM configuration method, a configuration method (including measurement configuration and report configuration) using an RS or SSB used for communication (see Non-Patent Document 19) may be applied as appropriate. Such a configuration may be referred to as a sensing-compatible communication beam configuration. When a configuration used for communication is used for a sensing BM configuration, information indicating that the configuration is used for sensing may be added to the configuration information. This allows the receiving UE to recognize that the configuration used for communication is used for sensing.

[0234] The sensing-compatible communication beam setting may be used only for sensing, or may be used for both sensing and communication. The same setting can be used for sensing and communication. For example, the measurement results for communication by the receiving UE can be used for sensing.

[0235] Measurement and reporting in the sensing-enabled communication beam settings may be performed prior to the sensing measurement. For example, the measurement period and report period of the sensing-enabled communication beam may be aligned with the sensing period. For example, the measurement period and report period of the sensing-enabled communication beam may be n times or 1 / n times (n is a natural number) the sensing measurement period. An offset of the measurement timing and report timing of the sensing-enabled communication beam and an offset of the sensing measurement timing may be set so that measurement and reporting of the sensing-enabled communication beam are performed prior to the sensing measurement.

[0236] A sensing window (SW) or a sensing gap (SGAP) may be provided, and sensing measurements may be performed in the SW or SGAP.

[0237] The measurement period and report period of the sensing-enabled communication beam may be set to include at least the timing before the SW or SGAP. The setting method may be, for example, the aforementioned method, as appropriate. This allows the sensing-enabled communication beam to be measured and reported before the sensing measurement at the SW or SGAP.

[0238] These settings may be made in the sensing-enabled communication beam settings and the sensing measurement settings. By doing so, the transmitting base station can timely use the measurement results of the sensing resource set using the communication beam, and can appropriately determine the sensing beam.

[0239] The carrier frequency of the sensing-enabled communication beam may be the sensing carrier frequency. The cell of the sensing-enabled communication beam may be the sensing cell. For example, the carrier frequency may be used when a cell is set for sensing. The frequency or cell does not have to be used for communication. Since there is no concurrent use with communication, the complexity of the sensing process is reduced. The frequency or cell may be used for communication. The concurrent use of communication and sensing improves resource usage efficiency.

[0240] Another method for configuring a BM for sensing is disclosed. The configuration is configured for sensing. One or more sensing resource configurations, measurement configurations, and reporting configurations are provided for sensing. Existing communication configurations are not used. An RS other than an existing RS may be provided as a sensing resource. An existing RS (e.g., CSI-RS) or SSB may be used as a sensing resource. The sensing resource is configured for sensing. Since it is configured for sensing, a new RS can be configured as a sensing resource.

[0241] The sensing resource configuration information may include, for example, RS configuration. The RS configuration may include allocation information on the frequency axis and the time axis, sequence information, orthogonal code information, etc. The sensing resource configuration information may include information for identifying the sensing resource, such as an identifier.

[0242] The configuration information of the sensing resource may be, for example, spatial direction information of the sensing resource. The spatial direction information of the sensing resource may be, for example, angle information (azimuth, zenith (elevation)).

[0243] The measurement setting information for sensing resources may include, for example, information on sensing resources to be measured, information on paths, and information on measurement indicators. The information on sensing resources may be, for example, information for identifying sensing resources. The information on paths may be, for example, information on the number of paths to be measured, information indicating whether to measure LOS or NLOS, etc. The information on measurement indicators may be, for example, RSRP, RSRQ, SIR, Doppler frequency, delay, AOA, AOD, time difference, etc.

[0244] The reporting configuration information for sensing resources may include, for example, information on sensing resources to be measured, information on paths to be reported, measurement indicators to be reported, information such as whether reporting is periodic, aperiodic, or trigger-based, a reporting period, trigger conditions, thresholds used for the trigger conditions, filter information, and control channel information to be used for reporting. The sensing resource information may be, for example, information for identifying a sensing resource. The trigger condition may be, for example, reporting when a measurement result exceeds a predetermined threshold (e.g., may be equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold). The filter information may be, for example, information indicating whether to average multiple measurement results or information for averaging. The control channel information to be used for reporting may be, for example, information on the PUCCH when the transmission result is included in UCI and reported on the PUCCH. For example, the control channel information to be used for reporting may be information on the PUCCH configuration, such as an identifier of the PUCCH configuration.

[0245] The information on the sensing resource set may be information for identifying one or more sensing resources included in the sensing resource set. Some or all of the sensing resources in the sensing resource set may have the same information.

[0246] By setting the sensing BM settings for sensing, it becomes possible to set information that is not included in the existing communication settings, and settings suitable for sensing become possible.

[0247] Other sensing BM setting methods are disclosed. The methods disclosed above may be combined. For example, sensing setting information may be added to communication settings. For example, setting information used only for sensing may be added to communication settings. Also, setting information used only for communication may be deleted. In this way, settings suitable for sensing can be set in communication settings.

[0248] The SF may transmit a change request for the sensing BM configuration to the transmitting base station. For example, the SF may initiate a change request for the sensing BM configuration using sensing results derived using sensing measurement results acquired from the receiving UE. The SF may transmit a change request for the sensing BM configuration, for example, when it becomes difficult to identify a sensing target or when it becomes difficult to track a sensing target. Information included in the change request may include, for example, information indicating the change request, information for identifying the sensing BM configuration, information about the receiving UE, sensing resource information associated with the sensing measurement results, sensing measurement results, sensing results, information about the sensing service, and request reason information. As another example, information desired to be changed may be included. Information included in the change request may include information about the receiving UE, information about sensing resources, information about the sensing resource set, measurement configuration information, reporting configuration information, and the like. For example, the information may include identifiers of sensing resources corresponding to sensing measurement results that do not contribute to deriving the sensing results. For example, the information may include sensing resource periodicity information or reporting periodicity information for improving sensing accuracy. In addition to the information to be changed, the setting value after the change may be included. This information may be transmitted from the SF to the transmitting base station separately from the change request.

[0249] The transmitting base station that has received the sensing BM setting change request may change the sensing BM setting. For example, the transmitting base station changes the sensing resource used for the sensing BM to a sensing resource transmitted by a different beam. For example, the transmitting base station shortens the transmission period of the sensing resource and shortens the reporting period.

[0250] This makes it possible to request a change to the sensing BM settings taking into account the sensing results derived in SF, enabling flexible control of the sensing process, improved sensing accuracy, and reduced power consumption in the sensing process.

[0251] The SF may transmit sensing BM setting information to the UE. The transmitting base station may perform sensing BM setting and transmit sensing BM setting information to the SF. The SF may transmit sensing BM setting information received from the transmitting base station to the UE. The transmission may use an interface between the SF and the UE.

[0252] The transmitting base station transmits to the UE an identifier of the sensing resource (which may be an identifier of the sensing resource set) to be used for the sensing BM. The UE measures the sensing resource and transmits the measurement results to the transmitting base station. The UE may use the sensing BM setting information received from the SF for the sensing BM. In this way, the amount of information transmitted from the transmitting base station to the UE in the sensing BM can be reduced.

[0253] The transmitting base station, which has determined the sensing resource and the receiving UE to be used for sensing, transmits an identifier of the sensing resource to the receiving UE. The receiving UE measures the sensing resource and transmits the sensing measurement result to the transmitting base station. The transmitting base station transmits the sensing measurement result received from the receiving UE to the SF. The UE may transmit the sensing measurement result to the SF.

[0254] By transmitting the sensing BM setting from the SF to the UE, it becomes possible to control the sensing BM at the interface between the transmitting base station and the UE. This makes it possible to control the sensing BM between the transmitting base station and the UE with low latency, making it possible to use an appropriate sensing beam in a more timely manner, thereby improving sensing accuracy.

[0255] As mentioned above, it has been disclosed that an SF may be provided within another NF (Network Function), but an SF may also be provided within a base station. A function within a network is referred to as an NF. Some or all of the functions of an SF may be provided within a base station. For example, if a base station has the function of deriving sensing results from sensing measurement results, which is a function of an SF, the base station can derive the sensing results. This makes it possible to quickly and easily change sensing BM settings using sensing results. It becomes possible to use appropriate sensing beams in a more timely manner.

[0256] In this way, sensing BM can be executed. The transmitting base station can execute sensing BM between the UE. Since the SF does not need to set or change the beam used for sensing, it can be executed early. The sensing beam can be appropriately determined even for a moving sensing target, improving sensing accuracy and enabling tracking of the sensing target.

[0257] When a UE moves, it may not be possible to receive sensing resources properly. In such a case, it is advisable to use the method disclosed in the first embodiment. By implementing the methods disclosed in the first embodiment, such as changing the beam used for sensing, changing the receiving UE, or changing the UE, it becomes possible to perform good sensing even when the UE moves.

[0258] Embodiment 2. The cell (which may be a base station) to which the UE is connected may change due to the movement of the UE, etc. For example, if the UE moves between base stations while a sensing BM is being performed between the base stations to which the UE is connected, it becomes difficult to process the sensing BM, resulting in problems such as a deterioration in the accuracy of the sensing process and an inability to track the sensing target.

[0259] This embodiment discloses a method for solving such a problem.

[0260] A process for changing the UE that performs the sensing BM is performed. A process for changing the receiving UE may also be performed. The receiving UE may be changed in accordance with a change in the UE that performs the sensing BM.

[0261] As the receiving UE moves, HO is performed from the HO source base station to the HO destination base station. If the HO of the receiving UE is successful, the receiving UE transmits a HO success notification to the HO destination base station. The base station makes the receiving UE perform communication measurement and report the results to be used in determining the HO activation conditions.

[0262] The HO-source base station transmits information about the HO-target UE to the HO-destination base station. If the UE is a receiving UE, the information about the HO-target UE may include information indicating that it is a receiving UE. If the UE is a UE that performs sensing BM, the information about the HO-target UE may include information indicating that it is a UE that performs sensing BM. The HO-destination base station can recognize that the HO-target UE is a UE involved in sensing.

[0263] The information about the HO target UE may include the measurement results of the sensing BM of the UE. The information about the HO target UE may include the sensing measurement results of the UE. These measurement results may be a predetermined number of the most recent measurement results. The predetermined number may be statically determined by a standard or the like, or may be notified to the UE from the base station or SF. The HO-destination base station becomes able to recognize the measurement results used for sensing the HO target UE.

[0264] The HO-destination base station transmits a notification of a change in the base station of the HO-target UE to the SF. The notification may include information about the base station itself. The notification may include information about the HO-source base station, such as a base station identifier. The SF can recognize the HO-source base station and the HO-target base station. If the HO-target UE is a receiving UE, the notification may include information indicating that it is a receiving UE. If the UE is a UE that performs sensing BM, the notification may include information indicating that it is a UE that performs sensing BM. The notification may be transmitted using an interface provided between the base station and the SF. The interface may be set up between the HO-destination base station and the SF. Alternatively, the notification may be transmitted from the base station to the AMF and from the AMF to the SF. The SF can recognize that the receiving UE or the UE that performs sensing BM has changed base stations due to HO.

[0265] The HO-destination base station may notify the HO-source base station that the HO of the HO-target UE has been successful. For example, the notification may be made during the HO process. For example, a UE context release notification during the HO process may be used. The HO-source base station can recognize that the HO of the HO-target UE has been successful.

[0266] The HO-source base station may transmit a notification of a change in the base station of the HO target UE to the SF. The notification may include information about the own base station. The notification may include information about the HO-destination base station. The information about the own base station may be, for example, an identifier of the HO-source base station, and the information about the HO-destination base station may be, for example, an identifier of the HO-destination base station. The SF can recognize the HO-source base station and the HO-destination base station. If the HO target UE is a receiving UE, the notification may include information indicating that it is a receiving UE. If the UE is a UE that performs sensing BM, the notification may include information indicating that it is a UE that performs sensing BM. The notification may be transmitted using an interface provided between the base station and the SF. Alternatively, the notification may be transmitted from the base station to the AMF and from the AMF to the SF. The SF can recognize that the receiving UE or the UE that performs sensing BM has changed its base station due to HO.

[0267] The HO target UE may transmit a notification of a change of base station to the SF. The notification may include information about the HO-source base station. The notification may include information about the HO-destination base station. The information about the HO-source base station may be, for example, an identifier of the HO-source base station, and the information about the HO-destination base station may be, for example, an identifier of the HO-destination base station. The SF can recognize the HO-source base station and the HO-destination base station. If the HO target UE is a receiving UE, the notification may include information indicating that it is a receiving UE. If the UE is a UE that performs sensing BM, the notification may include information indicating that it is a UE that performs sensing BM. The notification may be transmitted using an interface provided between the UE and the SF. Alternatively, the notification may be transmitted from the UE to the AMF and from the AMF to the SF. The SF can recognize that the receiving UE or the UE that performs sensing BM has changed base stations due to HO.

[0268] The SF may change the UE that performs the sensing BM. For example, if the UE that performs the sensing BM or the receiving UE moves between base stations, the SF may change the UE that performs the sensing BM. The SF may change the UE that performs the sensing BM used for the sensing BM, for example, using received information about the HO target UE or information about the HO source and HO destination base stations. For example, the HO target UE may be deleted from the UEs that perform the sensing BM and a new UE may be added. The new UE may be a UE that is suitable for the receiving UE. The method for determining the UE that performs the sensing BM disclosed above may be applied as appropriate.

[0269] The SF may inquire about sensing-associated UEs from the LMF. The LMF may derive sensing-associated UEs and transmit information about the sensing-associated UEs to the SF. The LMF may transmit information about only changed sensing-associated UEs to the SF. The processing method between the SF and the LMF may be appropriately applied as disclosed above. The SF can obtain the latest sensing-associated UE information from, for example, the latest location information of the UE. The SF can use the latest sensing-associated UE information to determine the UEs that will perform sensing BM.

[0270] The SF transmits information indicating the end of the sensing process to the HO target UE. The SF may transmit a notification of the end of the sensing process for the HO target UE to the HO destination base station, and the HO destination base station may transmit a notification of the end of the sensing process to the HO target UE. Alternatively, the SF may transmit a notification of the end of the sensing process for the HO target UE to the AMF, and the AMF may transmit a notification of the end of the sensing process to the HO target UE. The HO target UE that receives this information terminates the sensing process. The HO target UE also terminates the sensing process at a HO destination base station that is far from the sensing target, thereby avoiding the continuation of unnecessary processing.

[0271] The SF transmits information indicating the end of the sensing process of the HO target UE to the HO source base station. The HO source base station can recognize the end of the sensing process of the HO target UE. For example, after the HO target UE HOs to another base station, the HO source base station can exclude the HO target UE from the UEs that perform sensing BM or the receiving UEs. This reduces unnecessary signaling.

[0272] 16 is a diagram showing an example of a sensing BM sequence when a receiving UE performs HO. This diagram illustrates a case where UE #2, the receiving UE, moves and performs HO from base station #1 to base station #2. Steps common to those in FIG. 15 are assigned the same step numbers, and common explanations will be omitted.

[0273] In ST1501 and ST1560, sensing processing is performed by UE #1, UE #2, UE #3, and base station #1 using a sensing BM. The transmitting base station is base station #1, sensing-related UEs are UE #1, UE #2, and UE #3, and receiving UEs are UE #1 and UE #2. In ST1601, HO processing is performed to UE #2, base station #1 (HO source base station), and base station #2 (HO destination base station). The HO processing may use the processing described in Non-Patent Document 2.

[0274] In ST1611, base station #1 transmits information about UE #2 to base station #2. This information may be, for example, the identifier of UE #2 or information indicating that UE #2 is the receiving UE. This information may be transmitted after the HO process is completed or during the HO process. For example, it may be transmitted in a HO request ACK. In ST1612, base station #2 transmits information about UE #2 to SF, notifying it that the base station to which UE #2 is connected has changed. This information may be, for example, the identifier of UE #2, information indicating that UE #2 is the receiving UE, or information indicating that UE #2 has HO'd to base station #2. SF can recognize that UE #2 has HO'd from the transmitting base station (base station #1) to another base station (base station #2).

[0275] The SF, having recognized that UE #2 has HO'd from the transmitting base station (base station #1) to another base station (base station #2), changes the sensing-associated UEs in ST1613. It is advisable to remove UE #2 from the sensing-associated UEs. In ST1614, the SF transmits information indicating the change of sensing-associated UEs to the transmitting base station. This information may include, for example, information about the sensing-associated UEs excluding UE #2. In this way, the transmitting base station can recognize that UE #2 has been removed from the sensing-associated UEs.

[0276] The transmitting base station excludes UE #2 from the sensing-associated UEs, and in ST1560 performs a new sensing BM setting and performs sensing BM with the new sensing-associated UE. In ST1560, sensing processing is performed using the sensing BM.

[0277] By doing this, even if the receiving UE moves from the transmitting base station to another base station by HO, it becomes possible to perform sensing processing using the sensing BM, excluding the receiving UE.

[0278] In ST1621, SF transmits information indicating the end of sensing to UE #2. This information is transmitted to UE #2 via the HO-destination base station (base station #2). UE #2 is then able to receive this information. Having received this information, UE #2 ends the sensing measurement in ST1622 and terminates the measurement of the sensing resource set of the sensing BM. The sensing setting may be released. In this way, it is possible to cause UE #2 that has HO'd to another base station to end sensing, thereby avoiding unnecessary processing.

[0279] When a UE performing sensing BM or a receiving UE HOs from a transmitting base station to another base station, the UE may terminate the sensing process. The UE may transmit a notification of the end of the sensing process to the SF. When a UE performing sensing BM or a receiving UE HOs to another base station, the transmitting base station may exclude the UE from the UE performing sensing BM or the receiving UE. The transmitting base station may transmit a notification of the exclusion of the receiving UE to the SF. In this way, the sensing process can be terminated early when the UE performing sensing BM or the receiving UE HOs to another base station.

[0280] The following describes processing performed when a UE is HO'd to a transmitting base station. The HO-source base station of the UE transmits information regarding the UE's sensing processing capability (sometimes referred to as sensing capability) to the HO-destination base station. This information may be transmitted during the HO processing. The HO-source base station may transmit, to the HO-destination base station, a UE identifier, information regarding the HO-source base station, information indicating whether the HO-source base station is a transmitting base station, and the like. The HO-destination base station transmits information regarding the UE's sensing capability to the SF. When the HO-destination base station is a transmitting base station, the HO-destination base station may transmit, to the SF, a UE identifier, information regarding the HO-source base station, information regarding the HO-destination base station, information indicating whether the HO-destination base station is a transmitting base station, and the like. The SF can determine whether the UE HO'd to the transmitting base station has sensing capability.

[0281] The HO source base station or the HOed UE may notify the SF of a change in the base station of the HOed UE or information about the sensing capability of the HOed UE. The methods disclosed above may be applied as appropriate.

[0282] The SF, which receives information from the HO-destination base station that the UE has been HO'd, derives sensing-associated UEs. The SF may determine whether the HO-destination base station is a transmitting base station. The SF may also determine whether the HO'd UE has sensing capability. For example, if the HO-destination base station is a transmitting base station and the HO'd UE has sensing capability, the SF may derive sensing-associated UEs. The method disclosed above may be applied as appropriate to derive sensing-associated UEs.

[0283] The SF transmits information indicating a change in sensing-associated UEs to the HO-destination base station. This may include information on newly derived sensing-associated UEs. The HOed UE may also be included in the sensing-associated UEs. In this way, the SF can transmit information on newly derived sensing-associated UEs, including the HOed UE, to the transmitting base station. The transmitting base station can perform sensing BM between the UE and the transmitting base station using the information on sensing-associated UEs received from the SF. The sensing BM and sensing process may be performed by applying the methods disclosed above as appropriate.

[0284] In this way, even when a UE is HO'd to a transmitting base station, it is possible to execute a sensing BM that takes into account the HO'd UE. It is possible to execute a sensing process using the sensing BM.

[0285] The transmitting base station may include the HO'd UE in the UEs that perform the sensing BM. The transmitting base station may determine whether the HO'd UE has sensing capability, and if it has sensing capability, may include the HO'd UE in the UEs that perform the sensing BM, and perform the sensing BM. In this way, it is possible to quickly execute the sensing BM and sensing process using the HO'd UE. After starting the sensing BM, the transmitting base station may transmit to the SF information on the sensing capability of the HO'd UE, the UE identifier, information on the HO-source base station and the HO-destination base station, information indicating whether the HO-destination base station is a transmitting base station, information indicating that the UE has been included in the UEs that perform the sensing BM, and the like. For example, the SF can use this information to change the sensing-related UEs.

[0286] The transmitting base station may transmit the number of UEs performing sensing BM to the SF. For example, this may be transmitted periodically. For example, this may be transmitted when the number of UEs is changed. When the number of UEs performing sensing BM falls below a predetermined number of UEs, the transmitting base station may transmit information indicating this to the SF. This number of UEs may also be included in the transmission. When there are no more UEs performing sensing BM, the transmitting base station may transmit information indicating that there are no more UEs performing sensing BM to the SF. In this way, the SF can recognize the number of UEs for which sensing BM is being performed at the transmitting base station. The SF may change the sensing-associated UEs. The number of UEs for which sensing BM is being performed may be used to determine this change in the SF. For example, the SF may widen the selection range of sensing-associated UEs. For example, the SF may select sensing-associated UEs by widening the distance from the sensing target. This allows the sensing process to continue. The SF may transmit a sensing end signal to the transmitting base station when there are no more UEs performing sensing BM or when the number of UEs falls below a predetermined number, etc. This can prevent unnecessary sensing processes from occurring.

[0287] When a receiving UE or a UE performing sensing BM HOs from a transmitting base station to another base station, the UE may notify the user that the base station has changed. When the receiving UE or the UE performing sensing BM receives RSRP, RSRQ, SIR, SINR, etc. from the transmitting base station and the UE receives RSRP, RSRQ, SIR, SINR, etc. that fall below a predetermined threshold (e.g., below a predetermined threshold), the UE may notify the user that the RSRP, RSRQ, SIR, SINR, etc. from the transmitting base station have fallen below a predetermined threshold. When a UE HOs from another base station to a transmitting base station, the UE may notify the user that the base station has changed. When the UE receives RSRP, RSRQ, SIR, SINR, etc. from the transmitting base station and the UE receives RSRP, RSRQ, SIR, SINR, etc. that exceed a predetermined threshold (e.g., above a predetermined threshold), the UE may notify the user that the RSRP, RSRQ, SIR, SINR, etc. from the transmitting base station have risen above a predetermined threshold. The UE may be a UE with sensing capability. This allows the user to recognize whether or not the user is within the transmitting base station. For example, the user can avoid moving from the transmitting base station. The user can continue to perform sensing within the transmitting base station.

[0288] By doing this, even when a UE involved in sensing moves between cells, the sensing BM can be continuously executed, improving the accuracy of the sensing process and enabling tracking of the sensing target.

[0289] Embodiment 3. There are cases where a sensing target moves between cells (which may be base stations). For example, when a sensing target moves from the coverage of a base station (e.g., a transmitting base station) used for sensing into the coverage of another base station, it becomes difficult to perform sensing processing using the transmitting base station, resulting in problems such as a deterioration in the accuracy of the sensing processing and an inability to track the sensing target. The sensing target may not be a UE. For this reason, the HO processing of the UE cannot simply be applied to the movement of the sensing target between base stations.

[0290] This embodiment discloses a method for solving such a problem.

[0291] The transmitting base station may be changed.

[0292] Position information of the sensing target may be used to determine whether to change the transmitting base station. Sensing results of the sensing target may also be used. For example, a change of the transmitting base station may be determined when the sensing target moves outside a predetermined area. For example, the distance between the transmitting base station and the sensing target may be derived. A change of the transmitting base station may be determined when the distance exceeds a predetermined threshold (for example, may be equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold). In this way, by using the position information of the sensing target, it is possible to determine whether to change the transmitting base station due to movement of the sensing target.

[0293] Measurement results of a beam used for sensing may be used to determine whether to change the transmitting base station. Measurement results of a sensing resource set used for sensing BM may be used. Measurement results of a sensing beam may be used. Measurement results of a beam used for communication may be used to determine whether to change the transmitting base station. For example, when a communication beam is used as the sensing beam, measurement results of the communication beam may be used. The measurement results of the UE performing sensing BM or the receiving UE may be used.

[0294] The measurement results of all beams used in the sensing BM may be used to determine whether to change the transmitting base station. The measurement results of a UE that performs all sensing BM may be used to determine whether to change the transmitting base station. For example, when the measurement results of all beams of a UE that performs all sensing BM fall below a predetermined threshold (for example, it may be equal to or less than a predetermined threshold), a change of the transmitting base station is determined.

[0295] The measurement index used to determine whether to change the transmitting base station may be the measurement index disclosed in the first embodiment. It is not limited to one, and multiple measurement indexes may be used. For example, RSRP or delay may be used. For example, RSRP and delay may be used.

[0296] The measurement results of LOS and NLOS may be used to determine whether to change the transmitting base station. The measurement results at the UE performing sensing BM or the receiving UE may also be used. For example, if the measurement result of LOS from the transmitting base station is greater than a predetermined threshold (e.g., may be greater than or equal to the predetermined threshold) and the measurement result of NLOS is smaller than a predetermined threshold (e.g., may be less than or equal to the predetermined threshold), a change of the transmitting base station may be determined. The path of radio waves transmitted from the transmitting base station and reflected by a target is NLOS. On the other hand, the path of radio waves transmitted from the transmitting base station and directly received is LOS. Therefore, if the LOS result at the UE performing sensing BM or the receiving UE is good and the NLOS result is poor, it can be determined that the distance from the transmitting base station to the UE is short, but the distance from the transmitting base station to the sensing target is far. Therefore, by using the measurement results of LOS and NLOS to determine whether to change the transmitting base station, it is possible to determine that the sensing target has moved significantly away from the transmitting base station.

[0297] The measurement index used to determine whether to change the transmitting base station based on the measurement results of LOS and NLOS may be the measurement index disclosed in the first embodiment. It is not limited to one, and multiple measurement indexes may be used. For example, RSRP or delay may be used. For example, RSRP and delay may be used.

[0298] In this way, by using the measurement results to determine whether to change the transmitting base station, it is possible to eliminate the need for location information of the sensing target. In order to obtain the location information of the sensing target, it is no longer necessary to derive the sensing result from the sensing measurement results. This makes it possible to quickly determine whether to change the transmitting base station.

[0299] The SF may determine a change of the transmitting base station, may transmit a sensing request to the post-change transmitting base station, or may transmit a sensing end notification to the pre-change transmitting base station.

[0300] 17 is a diagram showing an example of a sequence of the sensing BM when the sensing target moves. This figure illustrates an example in which the sensing target moves from base station #1 to base station #2. Steps common to those in FIG. 15 are given the same step numbers, and common explanations will be omitted.

[0301] In ST1560, sensing processing is being performed by UE #11, UE #12, UE #13, and base station #1 using the sensing BM. The transmitting base station is base station #1. Sensing-related UEs are, for example, UE #11, UE #12, and UE #13, and receiving UEs are, for example, UE #11 and UE #12. The sensing BM is being performed continuously.

[0302] In ST1701, base station #1 transmits sensing resources in the sensing resource set of the sensing BM. In ST1702, the sensing-associated UE measures the resources. In ST1703, the sensing-associated UE transmits the measurement results to base station #1. In ST1711, base station #1 determines whether to initiate a change of transmitting base station. The measurement results received from the sensing-associated UE may be used for this determination. For example, if the measurement values ​​of the beams used for all sensing BMs and all sensing-associated UEs are smaller than a predetermined threshold (for example, they may be equal to or less than the predetermined threshold), base station #1 initiates a change of transmitting base station. The predetermined threshold may be included in the sensing configuration information.

[0303] In ST1712, base station #1 transmits information indicating a transmission base station change request to SF. Having received this request information in ST1721, SF transmits information to LMF requesting the provision of sensing-associated base station and sensing-associated UE information. The request information may include the sensing results derived by SF. For example, it may include location information of the sensing target. The LMF derives information about the sensing-associated base station and sensing-associated UE. The LMF may use the sensing results received from SF in this derivation. In ST1722, the LMF transmits information about the sensing-associated base station and sensing-associated UE to SF. In this way, the SF can obtain information about the sensing-associated base station and sensing-associated UE that can be used for sensing measurement of the sensing target.

[0304] In ST1731, SF changes the transmitting base station to base station #2, with the sensing-related base station as the transmitting base station.

[0305] In ST1732, SF transmits information indicating the end of sensing to base station #1. In ST1570, sensing processing by UE #11, UE #12, UE #13, and base station #1 ends. In ST1733, SF transmits information indicating a sensing request to base station #2, which is the new transmitting base station. The information regarding sensing-associated UEs in the request information should be the information regarding sensing-associated UEs received in ST1722.

[0306] In ST1560, base station #2 receives the sensing request from SF and performs sensing processing as a transmitting base station. Sensing processing is performed using the sensing BM by UE #21, UE #22, UE #23, and base station #2. SF obtains the sensing measurement results from the new transmitting base station (base station #2) and derives the sensing results.

[0307] By doing so, even when the sensing target moves between base stations, it becomes possible to continue the sensing process using the sensing BM at the destination base station.

[0308] The sensing end notification to the pre-change transmitting base station may be sent after a sensing request is sent to the post-change transmitting base station. The sensing end notification to the pre-change transmitting base station may be sent after the post-change transmitting base station receives the sensing measurement result or after the sensing result is derived. Since the post-change transmitting base station can start the sensing BM before the post-change transmitting base station ends the sensing BM, the continuity of the sensing process is maintained.

[0309] Another method is disclosed. The transmitting base station may determine whether to change the transmitting base station. The transmitting base station may select the transmitting base station after the change.

[0310] The transmitting base station transmits a sensing BM configuration request to a neighboring base station. The request may include information about the transmitting base station (e.g., a base station identifier), information about sensing, information about the UE performing sensing BM, information about the receiving UE, sensing BM configuration information, etc. The neighboring base station that receives the request configures a sensing resource set corresponding to one or more beams to be used for sensing BM. It may also perform measurement configuration and reporting configuration for sensing BM. The neighboring base station transmits sensing BM configuration information to the transmitting base station. An interface between base stations may be used for communication between the transmitting base station and the neighboring base station. For example, Xn may be used. The transmitting base station transmits the sensing BM configuration information received from the neighboring base station to the UE performing sensing BM or the receiving UE.

[0311] The sensing BM setting information may be appropriately applied to the sensing BM setting information disclosed in embodiment 1. The method of transmitting the sensing BM setting information of the neighboring base station from the transmitting base station to the UE may be appropriately applied to the method disclosed in embodiment 1.

[0312] The UE performing the sensing BM or the receiving UE measures the neighboring base station. For this measurement, it is preferable to use the sensing BM setting information of the neighboring base station received from the transmitting base station. The UE performing the sensing BM or the receiving UE transmits the measurement results of the neighboring base station to the transmitting base station. The method of transmitting the measurement results of the neighboring base station from the UE to the transmitting base station may be the method disclosed in the first embodiment, as appropriate. The transmitting base station may use the measurement results of the neighboring base station from the UE performing the sensing BM or the receiving UE to determine whether to change the transmitting base station or to select the transmitting base station after the change.

[0313] The number of neighboring base stations is not limited to one, and may be multiple. In this way, the transmitting base station can obtain the measurement results of the beams used in the sensing BMs of the neighboring base stations.

[0314] The transmitting base station may determine a change in transmitting base station using measurement results of beams used in the sensing BM of neighboring base stations obtained from the UE performing the sensing BM or the receiving UE. The transmitting base station may use the measurement results to select a new transmitting base station. For example, if the sensing target moves and enters the coverage area of ​​another base station, the measurement results from that base station will be better, so that base station can be selected as the new transmitting base station. The measurement results of neighboring base stations of the receiving UE for which the sensing BM is being performed at the transmitting base station may also be used. The sensing BM allows the receiving UE to be appropriately changed in accordance with the movement of the sensing target. By using the measurement results of neighboring base stations from the receiving UE, it is possible to select a neighboring base station suitable for the movement of the sensing target as the new transmitting base station.

[0315] A condition may be set for the transmitting base station to initiate a sensing BM setting request to a neighboring base station. The condition may be statically determined by a standard, etc. For example, the condition may be set when all beams used for sensing BM and all measurement values ​​from UEs performing sensing BM fall below a predetermined threshold.

[0316] Although the use of measurement results of the sensing resource set used in the sensing BM has been disclosed, other methods may also use communication measurement results. For example, a neighboring base station may transmit a communication beam configuration, such as a resource configuration, measurement configuration, and report configuration transmitted by the communication beam, to a transmitting base station. Resources for the communication beam include, for example, RS and SSB used for communication. The transmitting base station transmits communication beam configuration information to a UE performing the sensing BM or a receiving UE. The UE performing the sensing BM or a receiving UE measures the communication beam of the neighboring base station. The UE performing the sensing BM or a receiving UE transmits the measurement results of the communication beam of the neighboring base station to the transmitting base station. The transmitting base station may determine a change in the transmitting base station using the measurement results of the communication beam of the neighboring base station obtained from the UE performing the sensing BM or a receiving UE. The transmitting base station may use the measurement results to select a new transmitting base station after the change. Using the communication beam configuration can simplify processing.

[0317] The transmitting base station may transmit a transmitting base station change request to the changed transmitting base station. The request may include information about the base station itself, sensing setting information, sensing BM setting information, sensing resource set measurement results of the UE performing the sensing BM or the receiving UE (at least one of the transmitting base station and the changed transmitting base station), sensing measurement results of the receiving UE, information about the changed transmitting base station, sensing beam candidates at the changed transmitting base station, etc.

[0318] Upon receiving the request, the post-change transmitting base station starts sensing processing. Upon receiving the request, the post-change transmitting base station sets the sensing BM. The sensing BM setting sent to the pre-change transmitting base station may be changed. For example, the beam used for the sensing BM may be changed using information included in the transmitting base station change request. By changing to a better beam, more accurate sensing can be performed.

[0319] The post-change transmitting base station that receives the request determines the UE that will perform sensing BM. For example, information included in the transmission base station change request may be used for this determination. For example, the receiving UE may derive a beam corresponding to the best sensing resource in the post-change transmitting base station, and the UE may be designated as being able to receive the beam.

[0320] The post-change transmitting base station may configure one or more UEs under its control to measure the sensing resource set used for the sensing BM transmitted to the pre-change transmitting base station. The measurement may be configured after receiving a sensing BM configuration request from the transmitting base station to configure the sensing BM. The UE performs the measurement and transmits the measurement results to the post-change transmitting base station. The post-change transmitting base station that has received the transmission base station change request may use the measurement results from the UE to determine the UE for which the sensing BM is to be configured.

[0321] After the change, the transmitting base station may send a request to the SF to provide information about UEs that perform sensing BM. Upon receiving the request, the SF derives the UEs that perform sensing BM. The SF may request the LMF to provide information about UEs that perform sensing BM. The LMF may derive the UEs that perform sensing BM and transmit the information about the UEs that perform sensing BM to the SF. The method disclosed above may be applied as appropriate to the transmission and reception of information between the SF and the LMF.

[0322] The post-change transmitting base station transmits a sensing BM setting to the UE that performs the sensing BM. The post-change transmitting base station transmits a sensing setting to the UE that performs the sensing BM. The UE that performs the sensing BM measures the sensing resource set of the sensing BM. The UE that performs the sensing BM transmits the measurement results to the post-change transmitting base station. The post-change transmitting base station determines the sensing beam and the receiving UE. The transmitting base station transmits information about the sensing beam to the receiving UE. The receiving UE receives the sensing resource transmitted by the sensing beam using the received information about the sensing beam and performs sensing measurement. The receiving UE transmits the sensing measurement results to the transmitting base station. The transmitting base station transmits the sensing measurement results to the SF. The methods for these sensing BMs may be the methods disclosed in embodiment 1, as appropriate. In this way, sensing using the sensing BM is performed at the post-change transmitting base station.

[0323] The post-change transmitting base station that has received the transmission base station change request may not start the sensing process. If the sensing process is not to be started, it may transmit a rejection of the transmission base station change request to the pre-change transmitting base station. The rejection may include reason information. For example, the reason may be that the load on the own base station is high or that there is no UE capable of sensing process within the own base station. The pre-change transmitting base station that has received the rejection may reselect the post-change transmitting base station from another neighboring base station.

[0324] Figure 18 is a diagram showing another example of the sequence of the sensing BM when the sensing target moves. This figure illustrates the case where the sensing target moves from base station #1 to base station #2. Steps common to Figures 15 and 17 are assigned the same step numbers, and common explanations will be omitted.

[0325] In ST1560, sensing processing is being performed by UE #11, UE #12, UE #13, and base station #1 using the sensing BM. The transmitting base station is base station #1. Sensing-related UEs are, for example, UE #11, UE #12, and UE #13, and receiving UEs are, for example, UE #11 and UE #12. The sensing BM is being performed continuously.

[0326] In ST1701 to ST1703, the sensing-associated UE measures the sensing BM and transmits the measurement results to base station #1. In ST1801, base station #1 determines whether to initiate a change of transmitting base station. The measurement results received from the sensing-associated UE may be used for this determination. For example, if the beams used for all sensing BMs and the measurement values ​​of all sensing-associated UEs are smaller than a predetermined threshold A1 (for example, they may be equal to or less than the predetermined threshold A1), base station #1 initiates a change of transmitting base station. The predetermined threshold may be included in the sensing setting information.

[0327] In ST1802, base station #1 transmits information requesting sensing BM setting to an adjacent base station (shown as base station #2 in this figure). In ST1803, the adjacent base station that receives the request information performs sensing BM setting in its own base station. In ST1804, the adjacent base station transmits a sensing BM setting response to base station #1. It is preferable to include sensing BM setting information in the response.

[0328] In ST1811, base station #1 transmits sensing BM configuration information of a neighboring base station to the sensing-associated UE. Base station #1 that transmitted the configuration information may transmit information to the neighboring base station indicating that it has transmitted the sensing BM configuration information of the neighboring base station to the sensing-associated UE. In ST1815, the neighboring base station transmits BM resources that are sensing resources in the sensing resource set of the sensing BM. Also, in ST1812, base station #1 transmits BM resources that are sensing resources in the sensing resource set of the sensing BM.

[0329] In ST1821, the sensing-associated UE measures the sensing resources of the sensing resource set of the sensing BM of each of the transmitting base station (base station #1) and the neighboring base station (base station #2). The sensing-associated UE may store the measurement results. In ST1822, the sensing-associated UE transmits the measurement results to base station #1.

[0330] In this way, the transmitting base station (base station #1) can obtain the measurement results of the sensing resource sets used for the sensing BM of not only its own base station but also neighboring base stations.

[0331] In ST1831, base station #1 determines whether to initiate a change of transmitting base station. This determination may use measurement results received from sensing-associated UEs. For example, if the beams used for all sensing BMs of the transmitting base station (base station #1) and the measurement values ​​of all sensing-associated UEs are smaller than a predetermined threshold B1 (e.g., may be equal to or smaller than the predetermined threshold B1), and the measurement values ​​of a certain beam of a neighboring base station (base station #2) and a certain sensing-associated UE are larger than a predetermined threshold C1 (e.g., may be equal to or larger than the predetermined threshold C1), base station #1 initiates a change of transmitting base station. As another determination method, for example, base station #1 may initiate a change of transmitting base station when either one of the conditions is satisfied. The predetermined threshold may be included in the sensing configuration information. If there is a neighboring base station that satisfies the condition, base station #1 decides in ST1832 to change the transmitting base station to that neighboring base station.

[0332] In ST1833, base station #1 transmits information indicating a transmission base station change request to the post-change transmitting base station (base station #2 in this figure). Base station #2, which has received this information, may determine sensing-associated UEs in ST1841. UEs under its own base station may be determined as sensing-associated UEs. In ST1560, sensing processing is performed using the sensing BM by base station #2, UE #21, UE #22, and UE #23. The transmitting base station is changed to base station #2, the sensing-associated UEs are changed to, for example, UE #21, UE #22, and UE #23, and the receiving UEs are changed to, for example, UE #21 and UE #22. As a result, the sensing BM continues to be performed.

[0333] In ST1845, base station #2 may transmit information indicating the end of sensing to base station #1. For example, this may be transmitted when the sensing process by base station #2 using the sensing BM is successful. In ST1570, the sensing process by UE #11, UE #12, UE #13, and base station #1 ends.

[0334] In this way, even when the sensing target moves between base stations, the sensing process using the sensing BM can be continued at the destination base station. In addition, since a request to change the transmitting base station is made between base stations, the transmitting base station can be changed quickly.

[0335] By using this method, even when the sensing target moves between cells, the sensing BM can be executed, improving the accuracy of the sensing process and enabling tracking of the sensing target.

[0336] Fourth Embodiment Sensing technologies that do not use methods specified by 3GPP (sometimes referred to as non-3GPP sensing) include, for example, LiDAR, radar, Wi-Fi sensing, and camera. UEs and base stations may have non-3GPP sensing sensors. This allows the UE and base station to acquire sensing measurement results using non-3GPP sensing. It is required that such non-3GPP sensing measurement results acquired by UEs and base stations be incorporated into the mobile communication network (Non-Patent Document 33). However, since no specific methods are disclosed, it is not possible to incorporate non-3GPP sensing results into the mobile communication network.

[0337] This embodiment discloses a method for solving such a problem.

[0338] The UE transmits information regarding support for non-3GPP sensing to the NF. The information may be included in the UE's capabilities. The information may include, for example, whether or not non-3GPP sensing is supported, the types of non-3GPP sensors supported, the types of non-3GPP sensing services supported, the types of targets that can be sensed, and the non-3GPP sensing measurement results that can be acquired. The NF may be, for example, a RAN, an AMF, or a SF. The UE may transmit information regarding support for non-3GPP sensing to a management node. The management node may be, for example, an MnS (Management Service) or an OAM (Operations, Administration and Management).

[0339] In this way, the NF or the management node can recognize the non-3GPP sensing capability of the UE. For example, the NF or the management node that has received information regarding support for non-3GPP sensing can identify the UE that is capable of performing non-3GPP sensing.

[0340] The SF may manage non-3GPP sensing. Management of non-3GPP sensing may include management of processes related to non-3GPP sensing, such as a non-3GPP sensing request, non-3GPP sensing setting, and non-3GPP sensing termination. The SF may have the function of a non-3GPP sensing server. By providing a function having a function for managing sensing, it becomes possible to unify and manage the sensing process, thereby reducing the complexity of the sensing process.

[0341] The SF having the function of managing non-3GPP sensing may be provided separately from other functions in the network. This can reduce the complexity of processing and malfunctions. As another method, the SF having the function of managing non-3GPP sensing may be included in another function in the network. This can facilitate cooperation with other functions and reduce the amount of signaling.

[0342] The SF sends a non-3GPP sensing request to the UE. The request may include information about the sensing service, information about the sensor type, information about the sensing target, etc. The SF sends non-3GPP sensing configuration information indicating the contents of the non-3GPP sensing configuration to the UE. The non-3GPP sensing configuration information may include measurement configuration information and reporting configuration information. An identifier may be provided in the configuration information. The request may include this configuration information.

[0343] Alternatively, the non-3GPP sensing configuration may be configured by the base station. The base station may transmit non-3GPP sensing configuration information to the UE. The base station may transmit non-3GPP sensing configuration information to the SF, and the SF may transmit non-3GPP sensing configuration information to the UE. For example, the base station may perform non-3GPP sensing configuration while coordinating radio resources with other UEs. This can improve the efficiency of radio resource usage. The UE may transmit a non-3GPP sensing configuration request to the base station. Upon receiving the request, the base station may perform non-3GPP sensing configuration and transmit the configuration information to the UE.

[0344] The SF may send a non-3GPP sensing configuration request to the base station. After receiving the request, the base station may perform non-3GPP sensing configuration and send non-3GPP sensing configuration information to the SF. The SF may send the configuration information to the UE.

[0345] The non-3GPP sensing configuration information may include, for example, information on whether at least one of measurement and reporting is periodic, aperiodic, or trigger-based. If periodic, the information may include information on the period, offset, sensing period, etc. If trigger-based, the information may include conditions for initiating at least one of measurement and reporting and thresholds used for those conditions. The non-3GPP sensing configuration may be set for each UE, for each UE group, or for each cell. This allows for configuration taking into account resources used for communication. Alternatively, the information may be set for each sensing service or for each sensor type. This allows for configuration according to the characteristics of the sensor, etc.

[0346] A measurement GAP may be provided for non-3GPP sensing measurement (sometimes referred to as N3SMG). Communication may not be performed in the N3SMG. 3GPP sensing may not be performed in the N3SMG. The non-3GPP sensing configuration may be information such as a period, an offset, or a gap period, for example. The N3SMG may be configured for each UE, for each UE group, or for each cell. Configuration taking into account resources used for communication becomes possible. Alternatively, configuration may be performed for each sensing service or for each sensor type. Configuration according to the characteristics of the sensor, etc. becomes possible.

[0347] The N3SMG may be configured by the SF. The SF may send N3SMG configuration information to the UE. The N3SMG configuration information may be included in non-3GPP sensing configuration information. The UE may send an N3SMG configuration request to the SF. Upon receiving the request, the SF may configure the N3SMG and send the configuration information to the UE.

[0348] Alternatively, the N3SMG may be configured by the base station. The base station may transmit N3SMG configuration information to the UE. The base station may transmit N3SMG configuration information to the SF, and the SF may transmit the N3SMG configuration information to the UE. For example, the base station may configure the N3SMG while coordinating radio resources with other UEs. This can improve the efficiency of radio resource usage. The UE may transmit an N3SMG configuration request to the base station. The base station that receives the request may configure the N3SMG and transmit the configuration information to the UE.

[0349] The SF may send an N3SMG configuration request to the base station, and the base station may configure the N3SMG and send the configuration information to the SF, which may then send the configuration information to the UE.

[0350] By providing a measurement GAP for non-3GPP sensing measurements, it is possible to facilitate coexistence with communication and 3GPP sensing processing within the same network.

[0351] The UE performs non-3GPP sensing measurement. The received non-3GPP sensing configuration may be used for the measurement. The UE stores the measurement results. The number of non-3GPP sensing operations performed by the UE is not limited to one, and may be multiple. For example, non-3GPP sensing may be performed using multiple sensing services or multiple sensors. For example, multiple non-3GPP configurations may be configured for the UE. The UE may perform sensing using multiple non-3GPP sensing configurations. The UE can acquire a wide variety of sensing measurement results.

[0352] The SF may send a request for non-3GPP sensing measurement results to the UE. The request may include information about the sensing service for which the measurement results are requested, information about the sensor type, and information about the sensing target. The request may also include information about the non-3GPP sensing configuration for which the measurement results are requested, such as an identifier. In this way, the UE can identify which non-3GPP sensing measurement the received measurement result request is for.

[0353] The UE transmits non-3GPP sensing measurement results to the SF. The received non-3GPP sensing configuration may be used to transmit the measurement results. The measurement results may include information about the measured sensing service, information about the sensor type, and information about the sensing target. The measurement results may also include information about the measured non-3GPP sensing configuration, such as an identifier. In this way, the SF can identify which non-3GPP sensing measurement the received measurement results are.

[0354] Non-3GPP sensing measurement results may be transmitted together with 3GPP sensing measurement results. Non-3GPP sensing measurement results may be included in 3GPP sensing measurement results, or 3GPP sensing measurement results may be included in non-3GPP sensing measurement results. For example, if a non-3GPP sensing UE is a UE that performs 3GPP sensing (e.g., a receiving UE), the UE may transmit non-3GPP sensing measurement results and 3GPP sensing measurement results together to the SF. The measurement results transmitted together may include information indicating whether they are non-3GPP sensing measurement results or 3GPP sensing measurement results. The SF can recognize which measurement results the measurement results are. Regarding the method of transmitting 3GPP sensing measurement results, the methods disclosed in embodiments 1 to 3 and embodiment 5 may be applied as appropriate.

[0355] The non-3GPP sensing configuration information may be transmitted together with the 3GPP sensing configuration information or the 3GPP sensing BM configuration information. The non-3GPP sensing measurement results may be included in the 3GPP sensing configuration information or the 3GPP sensing BM configuration information, or the 3GPP sensing configuration information or the 3GPP sensing BM configuration information may be included in the non-3GPP sensing configuration information. For example, when a non-3GPP sensing UE is a UE that performs 3GPP sensing (for example, a receiving UE), the SF may transmit the non-3GPP sensing configuration information and the 3GPP sensing BM configuration information together to the UE. The configuration information transmitted together may include information indicating whether the non-3GPP sensing configuration information, the 3GPP sensing configuration information, or the 3GPP sensing BM configuration information is. The UE can recognize which configuration information is the configuration information. As for the method of transmitting the 3GPP sensing configuration information and the BM configuration information for 3GPP sensing, the methods disclosed in the first to third and fifth embodiments may be applied as appropriate.

[0356] The interface between the UE and the SF may be used to transmit information related to non-3GPP sensing between the UE and the SF.

[0357] The Uu interface may be used to transmit information related to non-3GPP sensing between the UE and the base station.

[0358] The method of transmitting the non-3GPP sensing configuration information from the transmitting base station to the UE may use, for example, RRC signaling. For example, a new RRC message for non-3GPP sensing may be provided. For example, the non-3GPP sensing configuration information may be included in an RRCReconfiguration message and transmitted. This allows for the transmission of a large amount of information. As another transmission method, MAC signaling may be used. For example, a new MAC signaling for non-3GPP sensing may be provided. For example, the non-3GPP sensing configuration information may be included in a MAC CE and transmitted. A MAC CE for non-3GPP sensing may be provided. For example, the non-3GPP sensing configuration information may be included in a MAC PDU and transmitted. A MAC PDU for non-3GPP sensing may be provided. This allows for earlier transmission. As another transmission method, L1 / L2 signaling may be used. For example, the non-3GPP sensing configuration information may be included in DCI. For example, the non-3GPP sensing configuration information may be transmitted on a PDCCH. A non-3GPP sensing DCI may be provided. This allows for earlier transmission.

[0359] These transmission methods may be combined. For example, RRC signaling may be used to transmit non-3GPP sensing configuration information, and DCI may be used to transmit non-3GPP sensing measurement requests. A large amount of information can be configured in the UE as non-3GPP sensing configuration information, and activation / deactivation information for non-3GPP sensing measurements can be transmitted earlier. For example, measurement timing according to the non-3GPP sensing service can be flexibly controlled.

[0360] The method of transmitting the non-3GPP sensing measurement results from the UE to the transmitting base station may use, for example, RRC signaling. For example, a new RRC message for non-3GPP sensing may be provided. For example, the measurement results may be included in a Measurement Report message and transmitted. This allows for the transmission of a large amount of information. As another transmission method, MAC signaling may be used. For example, a new MAC signaling for non-3GPP sensing may be provided. For example, the measurement results may be included in a MAC CE and transmitted. A MAC CE for non-3GPP sensing may be provided. For example, the measurement results may be included in a MAC PDU and transmitted. A MAC PDU for non-3GPP sensing may be provided. This allows for early transmission. As another transmission method, L1 / L2 signaling may be used. For example, the measurement results may be included in UCI. For example, the measurement results may be transmitted on the PUCCH. For example, the measurement results may be transmitted on the PUSCH. A UCI for non-3GPP sensing may be provided. This allows for faster transmission.

[0361] The SF derives the sensing result. The sensing result may be derived using non-3GPP sensing measurement results received from the UE. The SF may store the measurement results received from the UE. The SF may store the derived sensing result.

[0362] The measurement results and sensing results may be stored in association with information about the UE that performed the measurement. Alternatively, for example, the measurement results and sensing results may be stored in association with non-3GPP sensing setting information, information about the sensing service, or information about the sensor type. The SF can manage the measurement results and sensing results. For example, when a specific sensing service is requested from another NF, AF, or external storage device, the SF can identify the sensing results of the sensing service and transmit the sensing results of the sensing service to the requested other NF, AF, or external storage device.

[0363] 19 is a diagram showing an example sequence of non-3GPP sensing processing. In ST1901, the SF transmits information indicating a non-3GPP sensing request to the UEs (UE #1, UE #2, UE #3) that will perform non-3GPP sensing. In ST1903, the non-3GPP sensing UEs that receive the request information perform non-3GPP sensing measurement. The measurement may use the non-3GPP sensing measurement configuration received from the SF. In ST1905, the non-3GPP sensing UEs store the measurement results.

[0364] In ST1907, the SF transmits information indicating a request for non-3GPP sensing measurement results to the non-3GPP sensing UE. The non-3GPP sensing UE that has received this request transmits the non-3GPP sensing measurement results in ST1909. This transmission may use the reporting setting for the non-3GPP sensing measurement results received from the SF. In this way, the SF can obtain the non-3GPP sensing measurement results measured by the non-3GPP sensing UE.

[0365] In ST1911, the SF derives the sensing result of the non-3GPP sensing. The received non-3GPP sensing measurement result may be used for this derivation. In this way, the SF can derive the sensing result of the non-3GPP sensing using the non-3GPP sensing measurement result measured by the non-3GPP sensing UE.

[0366] In ST1913, the SF transmits information indicating the end of non-3GPP sensing to the non-3GPP sensing UE. In ST1915, the non-3GPP sensing UE ends the non-3GPP sensing measurement. It may release the non-3GPP sensing measurement configuration and reporting configuration. In this way, it is possible to prevent the non-3GPP sensing UE from continuing unnecessary measurements.

[0367] A non-3GPP sensing measurement request may be provided. A non-3GPP sensing measurement start request and a non-3GPP sensing measurement end request may be provided. Activation / deactivation information for non-3GPP sensing measurement may be provided. For example, activation / deactivation information for non-3GPP sensing measurement may be included in the non-3GPP sensing measurement request. Activation may indicate the start of non-3GPP sensing measurement, and deactivation may indicate the end of non-3GPP sensing measurement. These may be provided separately from the non-3GPP sensing request, non-3GPP sensing measurement configuration, and non-3GPP sensing end.

[0368] The SF may first send a non-3GPP sensing measurement configuration to the UE via a non-3GPP sensing request, and then send a non-3GPP sensing measurement request. The UE does not perform non-3GPP sensing upon receiving the non-3GPP sensing measurement configuration, but performs non-3GPP sensing measurement upon receiving activation via the non-3GPP sensing measurement request. The SF may send a non-3GPP sensing measurement request to the UE before sending a non-3GPP sensing termination signal. The UE may terminate non-3GPP sensing measurement upon receiving deactivation via the non-3GPP sensing measurement request. The UE may maintain the sensing measurement configuration and the sensing measurement result report configuration set in the non-3GPP sensing request until receiving the non-3GPP sensing end signal, and release these configurations upon receiving the non-3GPP sensing end signal. This enables flexible control of non-3GPP sensing measurements.

[0369] The base station may transmit information required for non-3GPP sensing to the UE. The SF transmits information to the base station to assist non-3GPP sensing. The information may be, for example, per UE, per UE group, or per cell. For example, the information may be per sensing service or per sensor type. For example, the information may be per non-3GPP sensing setting. The base station transmits information to the UE to assist non-3GPP sensing. The information to assist non-3GPP sensing includes, for example, information indicating the relationship between time information used in non-3GPP sensing and time information used in the network. As a transmission method, UE-specific signaling may be used, or the information may be included in an SIB and broadcast. As UE-specific signaling, RRC signaling or MAC signaling may be used. The information may be included in DCI and transmitted on the PDCCH. The UE can obtain information that assists non-3GPP sensing.

[0370] By doing this, even if the UE has a non-3GPP sensing sensor, the UE can acquire sensing measurement results and sensing results using non-3GPP sensing, and these results can be incorporated into the mobile communication network.

[0371] The base station may transmit information regarding support for non-3GPP sensing to the UE or the NF. The NF may be, for example, a RAN, an AMF, or a SF. The RAN may be another base station. The base station may transmit information regarding support for non-3GPP sensing to a management node. The management node may be, for example, an MnS or an OAM.

[0372] In this way, the NF or management node can recognize the non-3GPP sensing capability of the base station. For example, the NF or management node that has received information regarding support for non-3GPP sensing can identify the base station that is capable of performing non-3GPP sensing.

[0373] The SF may send a non-3GPP sensing request to the base station. The SF may send a non-3GPP sensing configuration to the base station.

[0374] The SF may configure the N3SMG. The SF may transmit N3SMG configuration information to the base station. The N3SMG configuration information may be included in non-3GPP sensing configuration information. The base station may transmit an N3SMG configuration request to the SF. Upon receiving the request, the SF may configure the N3SMG and transmit the configuration information to the base station. The base station may configure the N3SMG. The base station may transmit N3SMG configuration information to the SF. The SF may transmit an N3SMG configuration request to the base station. Upon receiving the request, the base station may configure the N3SMG and transmit the configuration information to the SF. For example, the SF may use N3SMGs from multiple base stations to derive N3SMGs to be configured in one or more base stations. The SF may transmit the configuration information to the base station.

[0375] The base station may perform non-3GPP sensing measurement. The received non-3GPP sensing configuration may be used for the measurement. The base station stores the measurement results. The number of non-3GPP sensing operations performed by the base station is not limited to one, and may be multiple. For example, non-3GPP sensing may be performed using multiple sensing services or multiple sensors. For example, multiple non-3GPP configurations may be configured for the base station. The base station may perform sensing using multiple non-3GPP sensing configurations. The base station can acquire a wide variety of sensing measurement results.

[0376] The SF may transmit a request for non-3GPP sensing measurement results to the base station. The request may include information about the sensing service for which the measurement results are requested, information about the sensor type, and information about the sensing target. The request may also include information about the non-3GPP sensing configuration for which the measurement results are requested, such as an identifier. In this way, the base station can identify which non-3GPP sensing measurement the received measurement result request is for.

[0377] The base station transmits non-3GPP sensing measurement results to the SF. The received non-3GPP sensing configuration may be used to transmit the measurement results. The measurement results may include information about the measured sensing service, information about the sensor type, and information about the sensing target. The measurement results may also include information about the measured non-3GPP sensing configuration, such as an identifier. In this way, the SF can identify which non-3GPP sensing measurement the received measurement results are.

[0378] The interface between the base station and the SF may be used to transmit information related to non-3GPP sensing between the base station and the SF.

[0379] Although it has been disclosed that the SF derives the non-3GPP sensing result from the non-3GPP sensing measurement result, the UE or base station may derive the non-3GPP sensing result from the non-3GPP sensing measurement result. The UE or base station may transmit the derived non-3GPP sensing result to the SF. Even when the UE or base station derives the non-3GPP sensing result, it is possible to incorporate the non-3GPP sensing result into the NW.

[0380] Although it has been disclosed that the function for managing non-3GPP sensing is provided in the SF, as an alternative method, the function for managing non-3GPP sensing may be provided separately from the function for managing 3GPP sensing. For example, this may be referred to as N3SF. By providing the N3SF separately from the SF, processing optimized for non-3GPP sensing can be performed.

[0381] The N3SF having the function of managing non-3GPP sensing may be provided separately from other functions in the network. This can reduce the complexity of processing and malfunctions. As another method, the N3SF having the function of managing non-3GPP sensing may be included in another function in the network. This can facilitate cooperation with other functions and reduce the amount of signaling.

[0382] In this way, even if the base station has a non-3GPP sensing sensor, the base station can acquire sensing measurement results and sensing results by non-3GPP sensing, and these results can be incorporated into the mobile communication network. Unless otherwise specified in these methods, the methods disclosed above may be applied as appropriate.

[0383] The NW can acquire sensing measurement results and sensing results obtained by non-3GPP sensing performed by UEs and base stations. The NW can also acquire sensing results obtained by sensing using technology defined by 3GPP, as disclosed in the first embodiment. The NW may combine these various sensing measurement results and sensing results. The NW can provide various sensing services requested by other NFs, AFs, and external storage devices.

[0384] Fifth Embodiment In sensing processing using a CP, it is difficult to control performance, such as KPIs, required for sensing. To control this performance, it has been proposed to use a UP capable of managing Quality of Service (QoS) for sensing processing (Non-Patent Document 34). It discloses the establishment of a PDU session as a UP connection. However, it does not disclose specific processing methods, such as how to establish a PDU session in sensing processing. This results in the problem that UP cannot be used in sensing processing.

[0385] This embodiment discloses a method for solving such a problem.

[0386] The UP is used for the sensing process. A UP connection may be established between the UE and the SF. A PDU session may be established between the UE and the SF. The PDU session may be established via the UPF. Sensing messages between the UE and the SF may be transmitted and received using the UP connection established between the UE and the SF. As sensing messages, not only messages for 3GPP sensing but also messages for non-3GPP sensing may be transmitted and received.

[0387] A UP connection establishment method is disclosed. A UP connection establishment function is provided in an NF within a CN (Core Network). The NF may be an SF. The SF may have the UP connection establishment function. Alternatively, another NF may be provided. For example, a new function having the UP connection establishment function may be provided. By providing a new function, the function can be directly accessed from, for example, an external storage device, an AF (Application Function), or an NWDAF (Network Data Analytics Function), thereby avoiding increased delays due to increased load with other processes.

[0388] Alternatively, the UP connection establishment function may be provided outside the CN. For example, the UP connection establishment function outside the CN may initiate the UP connection establishment process for the SF. An interface may be provided between the function outside the CN and the SF. The interface may be used for communication between the function outside the CN and the SF.

[0389] As mentioned above, the sensing target may not be a UE. As a result, it becomes unclear which UE to establish a UP connection with, and the UP cannot be used for sensing. Here, a method for solving this problem is disclosed.

[0390] A UP connection is established using the receiving UE. A UP connection is established between the receiving UE and the SF. A PDU session may be established between the receiving UE and the SF. The number of receiving UEs may be one or more. In this way, the sensing measurement results measured by the receiving UE can be transmitted to the SF using the UP.

[0391] Another method is disclosed. A UP connection is established using a UE that performs sensing BM. A UP connection is established between the UE that performs sensing BM and the SF. A PDU session may be established between the UE that performs sensing BM and the SF. This UE may be one or more. In this way, even if the receiving UE is dynamically changed within the UE due to the sensing BM, the sensing measurement results measured by the receiving UE can be transmitted to the SF quickly using UP.

[0392] Another method is disclosed. A master UE is provided. The master UE may or may not be a receiving UE. The master UE may be PEGC (PIN (Personal IoT Networks) Elements with Gateway Capability) / PEMC (PIN Elements with Management Capability) (see Non-Patent Document 36 TR23.700-88). The master UE has a function to collect sensing measurement results. The master UE has a function to connect to a UE performing sensing BM or a receiving UE. A UE-to-UE interface may be used for this connection. For example, PC5 may be used. Sensing messages are transmitted and received between the UE performing sensing BM or the receiving UE and the master UE. The number of master UEs is not limited to one, and multiple master UEs may be provided. For example, if it is not possible for all UEs performing sensing BM or all receiving UEs to connect to a single master UE, multiple master UEs may be provided so that all UEs performing sensing BM or all receiving UEs can connect to one of the master UEs. The sensing measurements of all receiving UEs can be collected.

[0393] A UP connection is established between the master UE and the SF. A PDU session may be established between the master UE and the SF. In this way, the sensing measurement results collected by the master UE can be transmitted to the SF using the UP. For example, when there are many receiving UEs performing sensing, it is not necessary to establish many PDU sessions. This reduces the complexity of the process of using a UP connection for sensing.

[0394] The method of determining the UE that performs the sensing BM or the receiving UE may be, for example, the method disclosed in the first embodiment, as appropriate.

[0395] It has been disclosed that a UP connection is established using a UE performing a sensing BM or a receiving UE. The UE performing the sensing BM or the receiving UE establishes a PDU session individually. When there are multiple UEs performing a sensing BM or multiple receiving UEs, multiple PDU sessions are established. The multiple PDU sessions may be associated. For example, association information may be included in the information about the PDU session. For example, when multiple PDU sessions are established for the same sensing service, association information indicating that the sessions are the same sensing service may be included in the information about the PDU session. For example, when multiple PDU sessions are established for the same sensing request, association information indicating that the sessions are the same sensing request may be included in the information about the PDU session. For example, the SF can recognize that the sensing measurement results received using the PDU session are measurement results for the same sensing service or the same sensing request.

[0396] Sensing requires a different QoS than communication. A method for setting the QoS used for sensing is disclosed.

[0397] Fourteen examples of information relating to QoS for sensing are disclosed below.

[0398] (1) Horizontal accuracy of position information. (2) Vertical accuracy of position information. (3) Response time of position information. (4) Information indicating whether speed is required. (5) Speed ​​accuracy. (6) Resolution. (7) Range resolution. (8) Speed ​​resolution. (9) Delay amount. (10) Sensing service delay. (11) Refreshing rate. (12) Missing detection rate. (13) False alarm rate. (14) A combination of (1) to (13).

[0399] A QoS setting method is disclosed. The SF receives information regarding the QoS required for sensing (sometimes referred to as sensing QoS) from an external device, an AF (which may be a sensing AF described later), or an NEF (Network Exposure Function). The information may be an index such as a KPI required for sensing. For example, the external device, AF, or NEF may include the information or index in a sensing request and transmit it to the SF. The SF may derive information regarding the sensing QoS used in the NW from an index such as a KPI required for sensing.

[0400] The SF transmits information about the sensing QoS to the receiving node. The SF may, for example, transmit the information about the sensing QoS to the receiving UE. The SF may transmit the information about the sensing QoS to the transmitting node. The SF may, for example, transmit the information about the sensing QoS to the transmitting base station. The SF may transmit the information about the sensing QoS to the base station serving the receiving UE. The SF may transmit the information about the sensing QoS to the AMF. The AMF may transmit the information about the QoS to the transmitting base station and / or the base station serving the receiving UE. In this way, the receiving UE, the transmitting base station, the base station serving the receiving UE, and the AMF can recognize the QoS required for sensing. For example, sensing configuration and sensing measurement can be performed to satisfy the QoS.

[0401] The SF may transmit information about the sensing QoS to the SMF or UPF. The SF may transmit the information about the QoS via the AMF. The SMF or UPF that receives the information about the sensing QoS can use the information about the QoS for data transmission control in a PDU session, for example. This enables more appropriate control to satisfy the QoS required for sensing.

[0402] The SMF or UPF may derive information about the sensing QoS used in the network from indicators such as KPIs required for sensing. For example, the SF may transmit the KPIs required for sensing to the SMF or UPF. The SMF or UPF can derive information about the sensing QoS using the KPIs required for sensing. This is effective, for example, when the sensing measurement results are transmitted using a UP. The SMF may transmit information about the QoS to the UPF or the receiving UE. The UPF may transmit information about the QoS to the receiving UE. The SMF or UPF may transmit information about the QoS to the transmitting base station or the base station serving the receiving UE. It may also be transmitted via the AMF. In this way, the receiving UE, the transmitting base station, and the base station serving the receiving UE can recognize the QoS required for sensing. For example, sensing measurements can be transmitted in the UP to satisfy the QoS.

[0403] The NEF may derive information about the sensing QoS used in the network from indicators such as KPIs required for sensing. For example, an external device or an AF may transmit KPIs required for sensing to the NEF. The NEF can derive the sensing QoS used in the network using the KPIs. The NEF may transmit information about the derived sensing QoS to the PCF or UDM.

[0404] A sensing AF may be provided. The sensing AF may derive information about the sensing QoS used in the network from indicators such as KPIs required for sensing. For example, an external device or an AF may transmit KPIs required for sensing to the sensing AF. The sensing AF can derive the sensing QoS used in the network using the KPIs. For example, the sensing AF may be provided with a conversion table for converting KPIs used in the sensing service to the sensing QoS used in the network. This facilitates the conversion. The sensing AF may transmit information about the derived sensing QoS to the NEF. The NEF may transmit information about the QoS to the PCF or UDM. The sensing AF may transmit information about the sensing QoS to the PCF or UDM. This simplifies processing.

[0405] An AF (e.g., referred to as a unified AF) that supports multiple services may be provided. The unified AF may derive information about the sensing QoS used in the network from indicators such as KPIs required for sensing. The unified AF may derive information about the QoS used in the network from indicators such as KPIs required for not only the sensing service but also other services. An external device or AF may transmit the KPIs required for each service to the unified AF. The unified AF can derive the QoS for each service used in the network using the KPIs required for each service. The unified AF may be provided with a conversion table for converting the KPIs used for each service to the QoS for each service used in the network. This facilitates the conversion. The unified AF may transmit information about the derived QoS for each service to the NEF. The NEF may transmit the QoS information to the PCF or UDM. The unified AF may transmit information about the QoS for each service to the PCF or UDM. This simplifies processing. By providing a unified AF with the function of deriving information about the QoS used in the network from indicators such as KPIs required for various services, it becomes unnecessary to communicate with a different AF for each service. For example, the network can easily provide a service that combines multiple services.

[0406] The SMF may request information about the QoS for sensing from the PCF or UDM. The PCF or UDM may provide the QoS to the SMF. The information about the QoS required for sensing may be, for example, a QoS rule required for sensing. The QoS rule required for sensing may be derived by the PCF. The provision of the QoS information to the SMF may be performed, for example, during the PDU session establishment process. The SMF may transmit the QoS information to the UPF or the receiving UE. The UPF may transmit the QoS information to the receiving UE. The SMF or UPF may transmit the QoS information to the transmitting base station or the base station serving the receiving UE. The QoS information may also be transmitted via the AMF. In this way, the receiving UE, the transmitting base station, and the base station serving the receiving UE can recognize the QoS required for sensing. For example, sensing measurements can be transmitted in the UP to satisfy the QoS.

[0407] Information regarding the QoS required for sensing may be measured. Some or all of this information may be measured by the receiving UE, the transmitting base station, the base station, the AMF, the SMF, the UPF, and / or the SF. Alternatively, one of the nodes, for example, the SF, may derive measurement results regarding the information regarding the QoS required for sensing. From the measurement results, it can be determined whether the QoS required for sensing is satisfied. The SF can use this determination to perform more appropriate control to satisfy the QoS required for sensing, such as changing the transmitting base station or the receiving UE.

[0408] When another node derives a measurement result of information regarding the QoS required for sensing, the node may transmit to the SF a determination result as to whether the QoS required for sensing is satisfied. The node may request information on desired control indicator changes, such as a change in the transmitting base station or a change in the receiving UE, from the SF. The SF may use the determination result or the information on desired control indicator changes to perform more appropriate control to satisfy the QoS required for sensing, such as a change in the transmitting base station or a change in the receiving UE.

[0409] The SF may request some or all of the nodes to measure some or all of the information related to the sensing QoS. The request may include, for example, information indicating the information related to the sensing QoS to be measured. The request may include, for example, measurement configuration information. The measurement configuration information may be, for example, a measurement period. The request may include, for example, reporting configuration information for the measurement results. The reporting configuration information may be, for example, information indicating whether the report is periodic or event-triggered. It may also be, for example, information related to the reporting period or the reporting event. The node that receives the request may transmit a report of the measurement results to the SF. The SF may then perform more appropriate control to satisfy the QoS required for sensing, such as changing the transmitting base station or the receiving UE.

[0410] The SMF may request some or all of the nodes to measure some or all of the information related to the QoS for sensing. The nodes receiving the request may transmit the report to the SF. For example, the SMF may request the UPF to measure some or all of the information related to the QoS for sensing. The UPF may transmit a report of the measurement results to the SMF. The UPF used in the PDU session established for sensing can measure the information related to the QoS for sensing.

[0411] Multiple QoS levels may be set for sensing. Priorities may be set for the multiple QoS levels. For example, a primary QoS and a secondary QoS may be set. If the QoS level required for sensing with a higher priority level is not met, control may be performed so that the QoS level required for sensing with the next higher priority level is met. For example, if the SF determines that the primary QoS level is not met, it changes the setting to the secondary QoS level. In this way, even if the sensing capability deteriorates in a bad environment, the sensing process can be prevented from stopping by changing to a QoS with a lower priority level. It is possible to continue the sensing process with a QoS with a lower priority level.

[0412] In this way, it is possible to set the QoS required for sensing. Even if the QoS required for sensing differs from the QoS required for communication, the sensing process is executed so as to satisfy the QoS required for sensing. It is possible to satisfy indicators such as KPIs required for sensing.

[0413] The method disclosed above may be used not only for 3GPP sensing but also for non-3GPP sensing. Even when a message for non-3GPP sensing is transmitted and received using a UP connection established between the UE and the SF, the sensing process is performed to satisfy the QoS required for non-3GPP sensing. It is possible to satisfy indicators such as KPIs required for non-3GPP sensing.

[0414] 20 is a diagram showing an example of a sequence of sensing processing using UP. This figure discloses a method in which sensing-related UEs individually establish UP connections for sensing.

[0415] The SF determines to use a UP connection for sensing. In Step ST2001, the SF determines to use a UP connection for sensing. For example, this may be determined based on an increase in the load on the CP. The SF may acquire load information from the AMF and gNB-CU. The SF may use this information to determine an increase in the load on the CP. In Step ST2003, the SF transmits information about the UP to the sensing-related UE. The information may be, for example, the address of the SF and security-related information. This transmission may be performed via the AMF. NAS signaling may be used between the AMF and the UE.

[0416] In ST2005, the sensing-associated UE may transmit a reception response of the information on the sensing UP to the SF. The response may include, for example, information on the UP sensing-associated PDU session. The information may be, for example, the UE IP address, UE MAC address, or UE identifier of the sensing-associated UE. For example, the information may be information on an individual DN (Data Network) used for sensing, such as a DNN (Data Network Name). For example, the information may be information on slicing used for sensing, such as S-NSSAI (Single Network Slice Selection Assistance Information). The transmission may be performed via the AMF. NAS signaling may be used between the AMF and the UE.

[0417] The information about the UP sensing-related PDU session may be obtained from the PCF. The information about the sensing-related PDU session may be included in a URSP (UE Route Selection Policy). The URSP may be used in the response. The UE may obtain the URSP from the PCF in advance.

[0418] In ST2007, the SF transmits information indicating a UP connection setup request to the sensing-associated UE. The SF may use the UE IP address received from the sensing-associated UE for this transmission. The transmission may be performed via the AMF.

[0419] In ST2011, ST2012, and ST2013, each sensing-associated UE transmits a request for establishing a sensing UP connection with the SF. This request causes a sensing PDU session establishment process to be performed between each sensing-associated UE, base station, AMF, SMF, UPF, PCF, UDM, and SF. The PDU session establishment process may be appropriately performed using the process described in Non-Patent Document 35 (TS23.502 (Chapter 4.3.2.2)). The SF address may be used in the sensing PDU session establishment process. If the SF address is a FQDN (Fully Qualified Domain Name), a DNS (Domain Name System) server or resolver may be used to derive the SF's IP address. The DNS server or resolver may be an Edge Application Server Discovery Function (EASDF) or a local DNS for local SF address resolution. The UE may transmit a sensing PDU session establishment request including the address of the SF. In the sensing PDU session establishment process, the interface establishment process between the SF and the UPF may appropriately apply the method for establishing the N6 interface between the DN and the UPF.

[0420] In ST2015, the SF notifies the AMF that a sensing UP connection has been established between each sensing-associated UE and the SF. In ST2017, the AMF stores information about the sensing UP connection in the UE context of each sensing-associated UE. The AMF can recognize that each sensing-associated UE has established a sensing UP connection between the SF.

[0421] In steps ST2021 to ST2023, sensing messages are transmitted and received using the sensing UP connection established between each sensing-related UE and the SF. The sensing message may be, for example, sensing assistance data, a sensing request, a sensing capability, a sensing setting, a sensing measurement result, or a sensing result. The sensing message can be transmitted and received using the UP connection.

[0422] In a sensing UP connection, a priority may be set according to the type of sensing message. For example, the transmission and reception of sensing measurement results may be prioritized over the transmission and reception of sensing assistance data, sensing requests, sensing capabilities, and sensing settings. This allows the sensing measurement results to be transmitted and received quickly, and the sensing results to be derived with low latency.

[0423] Depending on the type of sensing message, the sensing message may be transmitted and received using either a sensing UP connection or a CP. For example, the sensing UP connection may be used to transmit and receive sensing measurement results, and the CP may be used to transmit and receive sensing assistance data, sensing requests, sensing capabilities, and sensing settings without using a sensing UP connection. In the CP, data may be transmitted and received using signaling using the interface between each node. The amount of data transmitted and received using a sensing UP connection can be reduced.

[0424] In ST2025, the SF may derive the sensing result using the sensing measurement result acquired from the sensing-associated UE using the UP connection for sensing.

[0425] An example sequence for terminating sensing is disclosed. In ST2027, the SF transmits information indicating a request to terminate the sensing UP connection to the sensing-associated UE. In ST2031, ST2032, and ST2033, each sensing-associated UE transmits a request to release the sensing PDU session. In response to this request, a sensing PDU session release process is performed between each sensing-associated UE, the base station, AMF, SMF, UPF, PCF, UDM, and SF. The PDU session release process may be the process described in Non-Patent Document 35 (TS23.502 (Chapter 4.3.4)) as appropriate.

[0426] Although it has been disclosed that the sensing-related UE sends the sensing PDU session release request, another NF may alternatively send the sensing PDU session release request. For example, the AMF, SMF, PCF, etc. may send the sensing PDU session release request. The SF may also send information indicating a sensing UP connection termination request to the NF.

[0427] In ST2035, the SF sends a sensing UP connection termination notification to the AMF. In ST2037, the AMF releases the context related to the sensing UP connection from the context of each sensing-related UE. The AMF can recognize that each sensing-related UE has not established a sensing UP connection. The AMF can manage the establishment status of the sensing UP connection in each sensing-related UE.

[0428] A UE or another NF may request the SF to use a UP connection for sensing. The SF that receives the request may determine whether to perform the sensing process using the UP disclosed above. For example, a UE or another NF may request the sensing process using the UP depending on its own signaling load and UP connection status. This makes it possible to perform a sensing process that is more suitable for the network.

[0429] When the UE requests the SF to use a UP connection for sensing, the request may include information about the UP sensing-related PDU session. This may omit transmission of a reception response regarding information about sensing UP from the UE to the SF (e.g., ST2005) or transmission of information indicating a UP connection setup request from the SF to the UE (e.g., ST2007). This may reduce the amount of signaling. The UE may send a request to use a UP connection for sensing to the SF via the AMF. The AMF may select an SF. The AMF may send a request to use a UP connection for sensing to the SF to an SCP (Service Communication Proxy). The SCP that receives the request may select an SF and perform routing.

[0430] The UE or another NF may request the SF to terminate the sensing UP connection. The SF that receives the request may determine the sensing UP connection termination process disclosed above. For example, the UE or another NF can request the sensing UP connection termination depending on its own signaling load and UP connection status. This makes it possible to perform sensing processing that is more suitable for the network.

[0431] The UE or NF may initiate the release process of the sensing PDU session. The SF may send a request to the UE or NF to initiate the release process of the sensing PDU session. The UE or NF that receives the request may initiate the release process of the sensing PDU session. For example, the UE or another NF can initiate the release process of the sensing PDU session depending on its own signaling load and UP connection status. This makes it possible to perform sensing processing that is more suitable for the network.

[0432] The SF may determine modification of the sensing UP connection. For example, it may determine modification of the sensing QoS. The SF transmits information about the modified sensing UP to the UE. The UE may transmit a reception response for the information about the sensing UP to the SF. The reception response may include information about the modified UP sensing-related PDU session. The SF transmits information indicating a request for modification of the UP connection to the UE. The UE transmits a request for modification of the sensing UP connection with the SF. In response to this request, a sensing PDU session modification process is performed between the UE, base station, AMF, SMF, UPF, PCF, UDM, and SF. The PDU session modification process may be performed as appropriate using the process described in Non-Patent Document 35 (TS23.502 (Chapter 4.3.3)).

[0433] The UE or another NF may request the SF to modify the sensing UP connection. The SF that receives the request may determine whether to modify the sensing UP connection. For example, the UE or another NF can request a modification process for the sensing UP connection using UP depending on its own signaling load and UP connection status. This makes it possible to perform a sensing process that is more suitable for the network.

[0434] The UE or NF may initiate a modification process for the sensing PDU session. The SF may send a request to the UE or NF to initiate a modification process for the sensing PDU session. The UE or NF that receives the request may initiate a modification process for the sensing PDU session. For example, the UE or another NF can initiate a modification process for the sensing PDU session depending on its own signaling load and UP connection status. This makes it possible to perform a sensing process that is more suitable for the network.

[0435] 21 is a diagram showing another example of the sequence of sensing processing using UP. This example discloses an example of establishing a sensing UP connection between a master UE and an SF. Steps common to those in FIG. 20 are assigned the same step numbers, and common explanations will be omitted.

[0436] An SF that has decided in ST2001 to use a UP connection for sensing establishes a sensing UP connection with the master UE in ST2003, ST2005, ST2007, and ST2101. The processing in ST2101 may be appropriately applied by substituting the processing in ST2011 for the master UE. As a result, a sensing PDU session is established between the master UE and the SF, and a sensing UP connection is established.

[0437] In ST2105, a sensing message is transmitted and received between the UE and the SF using the UP connection for sensing. For example, the sensing message may be a sensing request.

[0438] In ST2111, the master UE that has received the sensing request transmits information indicating a sensing measurement request to the sensing-associated UEs (UE #1, UE #2, UE #3) included in the request. The request information may include the sensing setting information received from the SF. The sensing-associated UEs perform sensing measurement. If the master UE is a sensing-associated UE, the master UE may also perform sensing measurement. In ST2123, the sensing-associated UEs transmit the sensing measurement results to the master UE. In ST2114, the master UE may store the sensing measurement results.

[0439] In ST2115, the master UE transmits the sensing measurement result as a sensing message using the sensing UP connection established with the SF. In ST2116, the SF derives the sensing result. The received sensing measurement result may be used for this derivation. In this way, the SF can acquire the sensing measurement result from the sensing-associated UE and derive the sensing result. The SF can simply use the sensing UP connection with the master UE, which can avoid the sensing process from becoming complicated.

[0440] An example sequence for ending sensing will be disclosed. In ST2121, the SF transmits information indicating the end of sensing to the master UE. In ST2122, the master UE receives the end information and transmits information indicating the end of sensing to the sensing-associated UEs. In ST2123, the sensing-associated UEs receive the end information and end sensing measurement. If the master UE is a sensing-associated UE, the master UE may also end sensing measurement.

[0441] In ST2027, the SF transmits information indicating a request to terminate the sensing UP connection to the master UE. In ST2131, the master UE transmits a request to release the sensing PDU session. The processing in ST2131 may be, for example, the processing in ST2031, which may be applied appropriately by substituting it for the master UE. As a result, the sensing PDU session is released between the master UE and the SF, and the sensing UP connection is terminated.

[0442] This allows the use of UP for sensing processing. Using a UP connection for sensing makes it possible to apply QoS management to a PDU session for sensing. Managing the QoS for sensing enables control to achieve performance such as KPIs required for sensing.

[0443] In this specification, a node may be a function, or a node may be an entity.

[0444] In this specification, a base station is referred to as a base station, but it may also be a RAN node unless otherwise specified. The RAN node may be a TRP or a TP (Transmission Point). The RAN node may be a CU or a DU. The RAN node may be an IAB node. The RAN node may be a DU of an IAB node.

[0445] In this specification, the UE may be an IAB node. The UE may be a Mobile Termination (MT) of the IAB node.

[0446] In the communication system according to the present disclosure, one or more cells are configured in one gNB. In the present disclosure, although it is described as a gNB or a cell, it may be a gNB or a cell unless otherwise specified.

[0447] In the present disclosure, a gNB may be an MCG or an SCG.

[0448] The above-described embodiments and their modifications are merely examples, and the embodiments and their modifications can be freely combined. Furthermore, any of the components of the embodiments and their modifications can be modified or omitted as appropriate.

[0449] For example, in the above-described embodiments and their modifications, a slot is an example of a time unit for communication in a fifth-generation communication system. A slot may be a scheduling unit. In the above-described embodiments and their modifications, processing described as being performed in slot units may be performed in TTI units, subframe units, subslot units, or minislot units.

[0450] For example, the methods disclosed in the above-described embodiments and their modifications may be applied to the IAB, to communications between an IAB donor and an IAB node, or to processing using a Uu in the IAB.

[0451] 202 Communication terminal device (mobile terminal), 210 Communication system, 213, 240-1, 240-2, 750 Base station device (NR base station, base station), 214 5G core unit, 215 Central unit, 216 Distributed unit, 217 Central unit for control plane, 218 Central unit for user plane, 219 TRP, 301, 403 Protocol processing unit, 302 Application unit, 304, 405 Encoder unit, 305, 406 Modulation unit, 306, 407 Frequency conversion unit, 307-1 to 307-4, 408-1 to 408-4 Antenna, 308, 409 Demodulation unit, 309, 410 Decoder unit, 310, 411, 526 Control unit, 401 EPC communication unit, 402 Other base station communication unit, 412 5GC communication unit, 521 Data Network communication unit, 522 base station communication unit, 523 user plane communication unit, 523-1 PDU processing unit, 523-2 mobility anchoring unit, 525 control plane control unit, 525-1 NAS security unit, 525-2 idle state mobility management unit, 527 session management unit, 527-1 PDU session control unit, 527-2 UE IP address allocation unit, 751-1 to 751-8 beam, 752 cell, 1100 learning device, 1110, 1210 data acquisition unit, 1120 model generation unit, 1121 reward calculation unit, 1122 function update unit, 1130 learned model storage unit, 1200 inference device, 1220 inference unit.

Claims

1. A communications system comprising: a base station compatible with a fifth-generation wireless access system; and a communications terminal connected to the base station, wherein sensing processing is performed using a sensing beam between a transmitting base station, which is the base station that transmits sensing resources, and a receiving communications terminal, which is the communications terminal that receives the sensing resources, wherein the communications terminal that performs sensing beam management processing measures a sensing resource set consisting of one or more sensing resources corresponding to candidates for the sensing beam and transmits the measurement results to the transmitting base station, and the transmitting base station determines the sensing beam based on the measurement results, and notifies the receiving communications terminal of the determined sensing beam.

2. The communication system described in claim 1, characterized in that after executing the handover process, the receiving communication terminal notifies the destination base station that the communication terminal is the receiving communication terminal, the destination base station notifies a sensing function that manages sensing that the receiving communication terminal has been handed over, and the sensing function notifies the source base station of the handover of the change in the communication terminal that performs the sensing beam management process.

3. A communication system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the sensing function that manages sensing determines whether or not a change in the transmitting base station is necessary due to movement of a sensing target.

4. The communication system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the transmitting base station decides to change the transmitting base station when the measurement result satisfies a predetermined condition, and the transmitting base station before the change sends a transmitting base station change request to the transmitting base station after the change.

5. A communication system comprising: a base station compatible with a fifth generation wireless access system; and a communication terminal connected to said base station, wherein said communication terminal has a function for performing sensing measurements using non-3GPP sensing, which is a sensing technology that does not use a method specified by 3GPP, and wherein a sensing function that manages the sensing or said base station transmits non-3GPP sensing setting information indicating the setting contents of non-3GPP sensing to said communication terminal.

6. A communications system comprising: a base station compatible with a fifth-generation wireless access system; and a communications terminal connected to said base station, wherein a protocol data unit session is established as a sensing user plane connection between a sensing function that manages sensing and said communications terminal, and wherein sensing messages are transmitted and received using said sensing user plane connection.

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