Communication method and apparatus, and terminal device and network device

Abstract

The present application relates to the technical field of communications. Disclosed are a communication method and apparatus, and a terminal device and a network device. The network device sends first information, which is used for indicating a PRACH resource configuration parameter; and correspondingly, the terminal device receives the first information. The terminal device uses a valid PRACH resource to send a first random access request message; and correspondingly, the network device receives the first random access request message. It can be seen that, in the present application, a PRACH resource can be configured by means of the PRACH resource configuration parameter indicated by the first information, so that the network device can use the configured PRACH resource to receive the random access request message. Configuring the PRACH resource can realize the adjustment of the PRACH resource, and adjusting the PRACH resource can serve as one of the effective ways to reduce the energy consumption of receiving the random access request message by the network device, thereby improving the energy efficiency of the network device, and achieving the aim of saving energy of the network device.

Description

Communication methods and devices, terminal equipment and network equipment

[0001] This invention claims priority to the earlier application filed on April 23, 2024, entitled "Communication Method and Apparatus, Terminal Equipment and Network Equipment" (application number 2024104960278), the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] This application relates to the field of communication technology, and in particular to a communication method and apparatus, terminal equipment and network equipment. Background Technology

[0003] With the further evolution of fifth-generation (5G) communication technology, improving network energy efficiency has become one of the hot topics. Network-side energy consumption can be divided into static energy consumption and dynamic energy consumption. Regardless of the network load, static energy consumption is a necessary expense for the network side.

[0004] Static energy consumption on the network side can include static receive energy consumption and static transmit energy consumption. For example, static receive energy consumption can include the energy consumption of the network receiving random access request messages during random access, while static transmit energy consumption can include the energy consumption of the network transmitting synchronization signal blocks (SSBs), paging, or system information (such as system information blocks (SIBs) or other system information (OSI)). Dynamic energy consumption on the network side refers to energy consumption that changes with the amount of service or data, such as the energy consumption of data transmission.

[0005] Current communication systems require optimization of static power consumption on the network side. Therefore, optimizing static power consumption on the network side is an urgent problem to be solved and one of the effective ways to improve network energy efficiency. Summary of the Invention

[0006] This application provides a communication method and apparatus, a terminal device, and a network device to reduce the energy consumption of receiving random access request messages on the network side and improve the energy efficiency of the network side.

[0007] Firstly, a communication method according to this application includes:

[0008] Receive first information, which is used to indicate PRACH resource configuration parameters; send a first random access request message using valid PRACH resources, which are determined based on PRACH resource configuration parameters;

[0009] The PRACH resource configuration parameters include at least one of the following:

[0010] PRACH configuration cycle;

[0011] PRACH temporal resource configuration index;

[0012] PRACH configuration cycle scaling factor;

[0013] PRACH temporal resource scaling factor;

[0014] PRACH frequency domain resource scaling factor;

[0015] PRACH resource activation or deactivation instructions; or...

[0016] The mapping rate between the synchronization signal block SSB and the PRACH resource.

[0017] As can be seen, this application can configure PRACH resources through the PRACH resource configuration parameters indicated by the first information, so that network devices can use the configured PRACH resources to receive random access request messages.

[0018] If the PRACH resource configuration parameters include the PRACH configuration period, then the PRACH configuration period is configured through the first information. In this way, configuring the PRACH configuration period is one of the effective ways to adjust the original PRACH configuration period. For example, increasing the PRACH configuration period adjusts the PRACH resources, thereby reducing the energy consumption of network devices receiving random access request messages, improving the energy efficiency of network devices, and achieving the goal of energy saving for network devices.

[0019] If the PRACH resource configuration parameters include a PRACH time-domain resource configuration index, then the PRACH time-domain resources can be determined through the PRACH time-domain resource configuration index indicated by the first information, so as to configure the PRACH time-domain resources. In this way, configuring the PRACH time-domain resources is one of the effective ways to adjust the original PRACH time-domain resources, such as reducing the PRACH time-domain resources. This adjustment of the PRACH time-domain resource configuration reduces the energy consumption of network devices receiving random access request messages, improves the energy efficiency of network devices, and achieves the goal of energy saving for network devices.

[0020] If the PRACH resource configuration parameters include a PRACH configuration period scaling factor, then the PRACH configuration period is configured using the PRACH configuration period scaling factor indicated by the first information. In this way, configuring the PRACH configuration period is one of the effective ways to adjust the original PRACH configuration period. For example, increasing the PRACH configuration period adjusts the PRACH resources, thereby reducing the energy consumption of network devices receiving random access request messages, improving the energy efficiency of network devices, and achieving the goal of energy saving for network devices.

[0021] If the PRACH resource configuration parameters include a PRACH time-domain resource scaling factor, then the PRACH time-domain resources are configured using the PRACH time-domain resource scaling factor indicated by the first information. In this way, configuring PRACH time-domain resources is one of the effective ways to adjust the original PRACH time-domain resources, such as reducing PRACH time-domain resources. This adjustment of PRACH time-domain resources reduces the energy consumption of network devices receiving random access request messages, improves the energy efficiency of network devices, and achieves the goal of energy saving for network devices.

[0022] If the PRACH resource configuration parameters include a PRACH frequency domain resource scaling factor, then the PRACH frequency domain resources are configured using the scaling factor indicated by the first information. In this way, configuring PRACH frequency domain resources is one effective way to adjust the original PRACH frequency domain resources, such as reducing PRACH frequency domain resources. This adjustment of PRACH time domain resources reduces the energy consumption of network devices receiving random access request messages, improves the energy efficiency of network devices, and achieves the goal of energy saving for network devices.

[0023] If the PRACH resource configuration parameters include a PRACH resource activation or deactivation indication, then the original PRACH resource is activated or deactivated using the first information. Activation or deactivation of PRACH resources can be an effective way to adjust the original PRACH resources. For example, the first information can be used to deactivate the activated original PRACH resources to reduce the number of activated PRACH resources, thereby adjusting the PRACH resources. This adjustment of PRACH resources can reduce the energy consumption of network devices in receiving random access request messages, improve the energy efficiency of network devices, and achieve the goal of energy saving for network devices.

[0024] If the PRACH resource configuration parameters include the mapping rate between the SSB and the PRACH resource, then the mapping rate is configured through the first information. In this way, configuring the mapping rate serves as an effective way to adjust the original mapping rate. Adjusting the mapping rate can adjust the PRACH resource, thereby reducing the energy consumption of network devices receiving random access request messages, improving the energy efficiency of network devices, and achieving the goal of energy saving for network devices.

[0025] In some possible examples, the temporal resource index i of the valid RO corresponding to the valid PRACH resource satisfies the following formula:

[0026] i mod(1 / K1) = 0, or i mod(1 / (K0*K1)) = 0; or,

[0027] i mod(K1)=0, or i mod(K0*K1)=0;

[0028] Where mod represents modulo, K0 represents the first value of the PRACH time-domain resource scaling factor, K1 represents the second value of the PRACH time-domain resource scaling factor, the second value refers to the value indicated by the first information, and the first value refers to the value before the first information indicates the second value.

[0029] It can be seen that the effective RO corresponding to the effective PRACH resource is obtained by using the PRACH time-domain resource scaling factor, so as to reduce the number of effective ROs.

[0030] In some possible examples, the temporal resource index of the valid RO corresponding to the valid PRACH resource is renumbered from the position where the first information takes effect.

[0031] As can be seen, when the first information takes effect, the time-domain resource index of the effective RO needs to be renumbered because the PRACH time-domain resource scaling factor will adjust the time-domain resource index of the effective RO.

[0032] In some possible examples, if the first information is carried by the paging DCI and the value of the short message indication information in the paging DCI is a first preset value, then the paging DCI only includes the first information and the short message indication information; or,

[0033] If the first information is carried by the paging DCI, and the short message indication field in the paging DCI takes the value of the second preset value, then the paging DCI only includes the first information, the short message indication information, and the paging dispatch information; or,

[0034] If the first information is carried by the paging DCI and the short message indication field in the paging DCI is set to a third preset value, then the paging DCI only includes the first information, the short message indication information, and the short message.

[0035] It is evident that the terminal device can determine whether the paging DCI carries the first information by the value of the short message indication information in the paging DCI.

[0036] In some possible examples, if the first information is carried by the PEI, then the first information is the common bit in the PEI.

[0037] As can be seen, the PRACH resource configuration parameters are indicated through the common bits in PEI.

[0038] In some possible examples, if the first message is carried by the paging DCI, the position where the first message begins to take effect is:

[0039] The end or start position of the paging cycle in which the paging opportunity corresponding to the paging DCI occurs; or,

[0040] The paging timing corresponding to DCI is located at the position where the end or start position of the paging timing is delayed by X time units, and X is a positive integer; or,

[0041] The end position of the paging timing corresponding to the paging DCI.

[0042] As can be seen, since different terminal devices may hear the paging DCI carrying the first information on different POs within the same paging cycle, it is stipulated that the first information takes effect from the end or beginning position of the paging cycle where the PO corresponding to the paging DCI is located. This helps to ensure that the first information heard by different terminal devices on different POs within the same paging cycle can take effect at the same position.

[0043] Since the first information takes effect after a delay of X time units from the end or start position of the PO corresponding to the paging DCI, the first information heard by different terminal devices on different POs within the same paging cycle can take effect at the same position.

[0044] Since the first message takes effect from the end position of the PO corresponding to the paging DCI, the first message heard by different terminal devices on different POs can take effect from the end position of their respective POs.

[0045] In some possible examples, if the first information is carried by PEI, then the position where the first information begins to take effect is:

[0046] The end or start position of the paging cycle in which the PEI monitoring timing occurs; or,

[0047] The position of the PEI monitoring timing's end or start position delayed by Y time units, where Y is a positive integer; or,

[0048] The end position of the PEI listening time corresponding to PEI.

[0049] As can be seen, since different terminal devices may hear PEI carrying the first information at different PEI listening times within the same paging cycle, it is stipulated that the first information takes effect from the end or beginning position of the paging cycle where the PEI listening time corresponding to the PEI is located. This helps to ensure that the first information heard by different terminal devices at different PEI listening times within the same paging cycle can take effect at the same position.

[0050] Since the first information takes effect after a delay of Y time units from the end or start position of the PEI listening time corresponding to the PEI, the first information heard by different terminal devices at different PEI listening times within the same paging cycle can take effect at the same position.

[0051] Since the first information takes effect from the end position of the PEI listening time corresponding to the PEI, the first information listened to by different terminal devices at different PEI listening times can take effect from the end position of their respective PEI listening times.

[0052] In some possible examples, if the first message is carried by the scheduling DCI or MAC CE, the position where the first message begins to take effect is:

[0053] The end position of the time-domain resources corresponding to the DCI or MAC CE; or,

[0054] The end position of the time-domain resource corresponding to the DCI is delayed by Z time units, where Z is a positive integer; or,

[0055] The end position of the time-domain resource corresponding to MAC CE is delayed by W time units, where W is a positive integer; or,

[0056] The time-domain location of the first RO following the time-domain resource corresponding to MAC CE.

[0057] It is evident that the first information of different terminal devices can take effect at the end of the time domain resources corresponding to their respective DCI or MAC CE scheduling.

[0058] The first information of different terminal devices can take effect at the position where the end position of the time domain resource corresponding to their respective DCI is delayed by Z time units.

[0059] The first information of different terminal devices can take effect at the position where the end of the time domain resource corresponding to their respective MAC CE is delayed by W time units.

[0060] The first information of different terminal devices can take effect at the time domain position of the first RO after the time domain resource corresponding to their respective MAC CE.

[0061] In some possible examples, if the first message is carried by the SIB, then the position where the first message begins to take effect is:

[0062] The end of the system information window where SIB is located.

[0063] As can be seen, the first information received by different terminal devices within the same system information window can take effect at the same location (i.e., the end position of the system information window).

[0064] In some possible examples, the method also includes:

[0065] Receive the second information, which is used to configure the validity period of the first information.

[0066] It can be seen that the effective duration of the network configuration of the first information is achieved through the second information.

[0067] In some possible examples, the starting position of the validity period of the first message is the position where the first message begins to take effect.

[0068] It is evident that the effective duration of the first message is calculated from the point where the first message begins to take effect.

[0069] In some possible examples, the method also includes:

[0070] Receive first configuration information, which is used to configure the mapping rate set corresponding to each SSB in at least one actually transmitted SSB and the first PRACH resource set associated with each SSB. The mapping rate refers to the mapping rate between the SSB and the PRACH resource.

[0071] As can be seen, the first configuration information enables the network to configure the set of mapping rates corresponding to each SSB, so that the terminal device can recommend mapping rates to the network device.

[0072] In some possible examples, the first set of PRACH resources associated with an SSB is the first N PRACH resources among the PRACH resources associated with that SSB, where N is a positive integer, and an SSB represents any one of at least one SSB that is actually being sent.

[0073] In some possible examples, the method also includes:

[0074] Send a second random access request message using the first PRACH resource;

[0075] Wherein, the first PRACH resource is a PRACH resource corresponding to the first mapping rate in the first PRACH resource set associated with the first SSB, the first SSB is an SSB in at least one actually transmitted SSB and the signal strength of the first SSB is greater than the first preset threshold value, and the first mapping rate is a mapping rate in the mapping rate set corresponding to the first SSB.

[0076] It can be seen that the terminal device recommends the first mapping rate to the network device through the first PRACH resource.

[0077] In some possible examples, the PRACH resource configuration parameters include a first mapping rate.

[0078] As can be seen, after the terminal device recommends the first mapping rate to the network device, the network device can configure the first mapping rate to the terminal device through the first information.

[0079] In some possible examples, the method also includes:

[0080] Receive second configuration information, which is used to configure a second PRACH resource set associated with each SSB in at least one actually transmitted SSB and a third PRACH resource set associated with each SSB;

[0081] Each PRACH resource in the second PRACH resource set associated with an SSB is used to indicate activation or deactivation of the third PRACH resource set associated with that SSB, where an SSB represents any one of at least one actually transmitted SSB.

[0082] As can be seen, the second configuration information enables the network configuration to indicate the activation or deactivation of the third PRACH resource set, so that the terminal device can recommend activated or deactivated PRACH resources to the network device through the second PRACH resource set.

[0083] In some possible examples, a portion of the PRACH resources in the second PRACH resource set associated with the SSB are used to indicate activation of the third PRACH resource set associated with the SSB, and the remaining PRACH resources are used to indicate deactivation of the third PRACH resource set associated with the SSB.

[0084] In some possible examples, the method also includes:

[0085] Send a third random access request message using the second PRACH resource associated with the second SSB;

[0086] Wherein, the second SSB is one of at least one actually transmitted SSB and the signal strength of the second SSB is greater than the second preset threshold value, the second PRACH resource is one of the PRACH resources in the second PRACH resource set corresponding to the second SSB, and the second PRACH resource is used to indicate the activation or deactivation of the third PRACH resource set associated with the second SSB.

[0087] It can be seen that the second PRACH resource enables the terminal device to recommend the activation or deactivation of the PRACH resource to the network device.

[0088] Secondly, a communication method according to this application includes:

[0089] Send the first message, which is used to indicate the PRACH resource configuration parameters;

[0090] The first random access request message is received using valid PRACH resources, which are determined based on PRACH resource configuration parameters.

[0091] PRACH resource configuration parameters include at least one of the following:

[0092] PRACH configuration cycle;

[0093] PRACH temporal resource configuration index;

[0094] PRACH configuration cycle scaling factor;

[0095] PRACH temporal resource scaling factor;

[0096] PRACH frequency domain resource scaling factor;

[0097] PRACH resource activation or deactivation instructions; or...

[0098] Mapping rate between SSB and PRACH resources.

[0099] In some possible examples, the temporal resource index i of the valid RO corresponding to the valid PRACH resource satisfies the following formula:

[0100] i mod(1 / K1) = 0, or i mod(1 / (K0*K1)) = 0; or,

[0101] i mod(K1)=0, or i mod(K0*K1)=0;

[0102] Where mod represents modulo, K0 represents the first value of the PRACH time-domain resource scaling factor, K1 represents the second value of the PRACH time-domain resource scaling factor, the second value refers to the value indicated by the first information, and the first value refers to the value before the first information indicates the second value.

[0103] It can be seen that the effective RO corresponding to the effective PRACH resource is obtained by using the PRACH time-domain resource scaling factor, so as to reduce the number of effective ROs.

[0104] In some possible examples, the temporal resource index of the valid RO corresponding to the valid PRACH resource is renumbered from the position where the first information takes effect.

[0105] As can be seen, when the first information takes effect, the time-domain resource index of the effective RO needs to be renumbered because the PRACH time-domain resource scaling factor will adjust the time-domain resource index of the effective RO.

[0106] In some possible examples, if the first information is carried by the paging DCI and the value of the short message indication information in the paging DCI is a first preset value, then the paging DCI only includes the first information and the short message indication information; or,

[0107] If the first information is carried by the paging DCI, and the short message indication field in the paging DCI takes the value of the second preset value, then the paging DCI only includes the first information, the short message indication information, and the paging dispatch information; or,

[0108] If the first information is carried by the paging DCI and the short message indication field in the paging DCI is set to a third preset value, then the paging DCI only includes the first information, the short message indication information, and the short message.

[0109] It is evident that the terminal device can determine whether the paging DCI carries the first information by the value of the short message indication information in the paging DCI.

[0110] In some possible examples, if the first information is carried by the PEI, then the first information is the common bit in the PEI.

[0111] As can be seen, the PRACH resource configuration parameters are indicated through the common bits in PEI.

[0112] In some possible examples, if the first message is carried by the paging DCI, the position where the first message begins to take effect is:

[0113] The end or start position of the paging cycle in which the paging opportunity corresponding to the paging DCI occurs; or,

[0114] The paging timing corresponding to DCI is located at the position where the end or start position of the paging timing is delayed by X time units, and X is a positive integer; or,

[0115] The end position of the paging timing corresponding to the paging DCI.

[0116] As can be seen, since different terminal devices may hear the paging DCI carrying the first information on different POs within the same paging cycle, it is stipulated that the first information takes effect from the end or beginning position of the paging cycle where the PO corresponding to the paging DCI is located. This helps to ensure that the first information heard by different terminal devices on different POs within the same paging cycle can take effect at the same position.

[0117] Since the first information takes effect after a delay of X time units from the end or start position of the PO corresponding to the paging DCI, the first information heard by different terminal devices on different POs within the same paging cycle can take effect at the same position.

[0118] Since the first message takes effect from the end position of the PO corresponding to the paging DCI, the first message heard by different terminal devices on different POs can take effect from the end position of their respective POs.

[0119] In some possible examples, if the first information is carried by PEI, then the position where the first information begins to take effect is:

[0120] The end or start position of the paging cycle in which the PEI monitoring timing occurs; or,

[0121] The position of the PEI monitoring timing's end or start position delayed by Y time units, where Y is a positive integer; or,

[0122] The end position of the PEI listening time corresponding to PEI.

[0123] As can be seen, since different terminal devices may hear PEI carrying the first information at different PEI listening times within the same paging cycle, it is stipulated that the first information takes effect from the end or beginning position of the paging cycle where the PEI listening time corresponding to the PEI is located. This helps to ensure that the first information heard by different terminal devices at different PEI listening times within the same paging cycle can take effect at the same position.

[0124] Since the first information takes effect after a delay of Y time units from the end or start position of the PEI listening time corresponding to the PEI, the first information heard by different terminal devices at different PEI listening times within the same paging cycle can take effect at the same position.

[0125] Since the first information takes effect from the end position of the PEI listening time corresponding to the PEI, the first information listened to by different terminal devices at different PEI listening times can take effect from the end position of their respective PEI listening times.

[0126] In some possible examples, if the first message is carried by the scheduling DCI or MAC CE, the position where the first message begins to take effect is:

[0127] The end position of the time-domain resources corresponding to the DCI or MAC CE; or,

[0128] The end position of the time-domain resource corresponding to the DCI is delayed by Z time units, where Z is a positive integer; or,

[0129] The end position of the time-domain resource corresponding to MAC CE is delayed by W time units, where W is a positive integer; or,

[0130] The time-domain location of the first RO following the time-domain resource corresponding to MAC CE.

[0131] It is evident that the first information of different terminal devices can take effect at the end of the time domain resources corresponding to their respective DCI or MAC CE scheduling.

[0132] The first information of different terminal devices can take effect at the position where the end position of the time domain resource corresponding to their respective DCI is delayed by Z time units.

[0133] The first information of different terminal devices can take effect at the position where the end of the time domain resource corresponding to their respective MAC CE is delayed by W time units.

[0134] The first information of different terminal devices can take effect at the time domain position of the first RO after the time domain resource corresponding to their respective MAC CE.

[0135] In some possible examples, if the first message is carried by the SIB, then the position where the first message begins to take effect is:

[0136] The end of the system information window where SIB is located.

[0137] As can be seen, the first information received by different terminal devices within the same system information window can take effect at the same location (i.e., the end position of the system information window).

[0138] In some possible examples, the method also includes:

[0139] Send a second message, which is used to configure the validity period of the first message.

[0140] It can be seen that the effective duration of the network configuration of the first information is achieved through the second information.

[0141] In some possible examples, the starting position of the validity period of the first message is the position where the first message begins to take effect.

[0142] It is evident that the effective duration of the first message is calculated from the point where the first message begins to take effect.

[0143] In some possible examples, the method also includes:

[0144] Send first configuration information, which is used to configure the mapping rate set corresponding to each SSB in at least one actually sent SSB and the first PRACH resource set associated with each SSB. The mapping rate refers to the mapping rate between the SSB and the PRACH resource.

[0145] As can be seen, the first configuration information enables the network to configure the set of mapping rates corresponding to each SSB, so that the terminal device can recommend mapping rates to the network device.

[0146] In some possible examples, the first set of PRACH resources associated with an SSB is the first N PRACH resources among the PRACH resources associated with that SSB, where N is a positive integer, and the SSB represents any one of at least one SSB that is actually being sent.

[0147] In some possible examples, the method also includes:

[0148] Utilize the first PRACH resource to receive the second random access request message;

[0149] Wherein, the first PRACH resource is a PRACH resource corresponding to the first mapping rate in the first PRACH resource set associated with the first SSB, the first SSB is an SSB in at least one actually transmitted SSB and the signal strength of the first SSB is greater than the first preset threshold value, and the first mapping rate is a mapping rate in the mapping rate set corresponding to the first SSB.

[0150] It can be seen that the terminal device recommends the first mapping rate to the network device through the first PRACH resource.

[0151] In some possible examples, the PRACH resource configuration parameters include a first mapping rate.

[0152] As can be seen, after the terminal device recommends the first mapping rate to the network device, the network device can configure the first mapping rate to the terminal device through the first information.

[0153] In some possible examples, the method also includes:

[0154] Send second configuration information, which is used to configure the second PRACH resource set associated with each SSB in at least one actually transmitted SSB and the third PRACH resource set associated with each SSB;

[0155] Each PRACH resource in the second PRACH resource set associated with an SSB is used to indicate activation or deactivation of the third PRACH resource set associated with that SSB, where an SSB represents any one of at least one actually transmitted SSB.

[0156] As can be seen, the second configuration information enables the network configuration to indicate the activation or deactivation of the third PRACH resource set, so that the terminal device can recommend activated or deactivated PRACH resources to the network device through the second PRACH resource set.

[0157] In some possible examples, a portion of the PRACH resources in the second PRACH resource set associated with the SSB are used to indicate activation of the third PRACH resource set associated with the SSB, and the remaining PRACH resources are used to indicate deactivation of the third PRACH resource set associated with the SSB.

[0158] In some possible examples, the method also includes:

[0159] Receive a third random access request message using the second PRACH resource associated with the second SSB;

[0160] Wherein, the second SSB is one of at least one actually transmitted SSB and the signal strength of the second SSB is greater than the second preset threshold value, the second PRACH resource is one of the PRACH resources in the second PRACH resource set corresponding to the second SSB, and the second PRACH resource is used to indicate the activation or deactivation of the third PRACH resource set associated with the second SSB.

[0161] It can be seen that the second PRACH resource enables the terminal device to recommend the activation or deactivation of the PRACH resource to the network device.

[0162] Thirdly, this application provides a communication device, wherein the communication device includes:

[0163] The receiving unit is used to receive first information, which is used to indicate PRACH resource configuration parameters;

[0164] The sending unit is used to send a first random access request message using valid PRACH resources, wherein the valid PRACH resources are determined based on PRACH resource configuration parameters;

[0165] PRACH resource configuration parameters include at least one of the following:

[0166] PRACH configuration cycle;

[0167] PRACH temporal resource configuration index;

[0168] PRACH configuration cycle scaling factor;

[0169] PRACH temporal resource scaling factor;

[0170] PRACH frequency domain resource scaling factor;

[0171] PRACH resource activation or deactivation instructions; or...

[0172] The mapping rate between the synchronization signal block SSB and the PRACH resource.

[0173] Fourthly, a communication device according to this application includes:

[0174] The sending unit is used to send first information, which is used to indicate PRACH resource configuration parameters;

[0175] The receiving unit is used to receive a first random access request message using valid PRACH resources, wherein the valid PRACH resources are determined based on PRACH resource configuration parameters;

[0176] PRACH resource configuration parameters include at least one of the following:

[0177] PRACH configuration cycle;

[0178] PRACH temporal resource configuration index;

[0179] PRACH configuration cycle scaling factor;

[0180] PRACH temporal resource scaling factor;

[0181] PRACH frequency domain resource scaling factor;

[0182] PRACH resource activation or deactivation instructions; or...

[0183] The mapping rate between the synchronization signal block SSB and the PRACH resource.

[0184] Fifthly, the steps in the method designed in the first aspect above are applied to the terminal device.

[0185] Sixthly, the steps in the method designed in the second aspect above are applied to network devices.

[0186] A seventh aspect is a terminal device according to this application, comprising a processor, a memory, and a computer program or instructions stored in the memory, wherein the processor executes the computer program or instructions to implement the steps in the method designed in the first aspect above.

[0187] Eighthly, a network device according to this application includes a processor, a memory, and a computer program or instructions stored in the memory, wherein the processor executes the computer program or instructions to implement the steps in the method designed in the second aspect above.

[0188] A ninth aspect is a chip according to this application, comprising a processor, wherein the processor performs the steps of the method designed in the first or second aspect described above.

[0189] A tenth aspect of this application is a chip module, including a transceiver component and a chip, wherein the chip includes a processor, and the processor performs the steps of the method designed in the first or second aspect above through the transceiver component. Optionally, the transceiver component can be used to send and / or receive information.

[0190] Eleventhly, there is a computer-readable storage medium according to this application, wherein the computer-readable storage medium stores a computer program or instructions, which, when executed, implement the steps in the method designed in the first or second aspect described above.

[0191] The twelfth aspect is a computer program product of this application, comprising a computer program or instructions, wherein when the computer program or instructions are executed, the steps in the method designed in the first or second aspect described above are performed. Exemplarily, the computer program product may be a software installation package.

[0192] The thirteenth aspect is a communication system according to this application, including the terminal equipment designed in the seventh aspect and the network equipment designed in the eighth aspect.

[0193] The beneficial effects of the technical solutions in aspects two through thirteen can be found in the technical effects of the technical solution in aspect one, and will not be repeated here. Attached Figure Description

[0194] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the architecture of a communication system according to an embodiment of this application;

[0195] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the architecture of another communication system according to an embodiment of this application;

[0196] Figures 3 to 5 are schematic diagrams illustrating the mapping relationship between SSB and RO according to an embodiment of this application.

[0197] Figure 6 is a flowchart illustrating a communication method according to an embodiment of this application;

[0198] Figures 7 and 8 are schematic diagrams of another mapping association between SSB and RO according to an embodiment of this application;

[0199] Figures 9 and 10 are schematic diagrams of the structure between a PO and a paging DCI according to an embodiment of this application;

[0200] Figure 11 is a schematic diagram of the mapping relationship between PEI monitoring timing and PO according to an embodiment of this application;

[0201] Figure 12 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a MAC CE according to an embodiment of this application;

[0202] Figure 13 is a schematic diagram of the structure between PO and paging DCI according to another embodiment of this application;

[0203] Figure 14 is a flowchart illustrating another communication method according to an embodiment of this application;

[0204] Figure 15 is a flowchart illustrating another communication method according to an embodiment of this application;

[0205] Figure 16 is a functional unit block diagram of a communication device according to an embodiment of this application;

[0206] Figure 17 is a functional unit block diagram of another communication device according to an embodiment of this application;

[0207] Figure 18 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a terminal device according to an embodiment of this application;

[0208] Figure 19 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a network device according to an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0209] It should be understood that the terms "first," "second," etc., used in the embodiments of this application are used to distinguish different objects, rather than to describe a specific order. Furthermore, the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a process, method, software, product, or device that includes a series of steps or units is not limited to the listed steps or units, but may also include steps or units not listed, or may also include other steps or units inherent to these processes, methods, products, or devices.

[0210] The term "embodiment" as used in the embodiments of this application means that a specific feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment may be included in at least one embodiment of this application. The appearance of this phrase in various places in the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor is it a mutually exclusive, independent, or alternative embodiment. It will be explicitly and implicitly understood by those skilled in the art that the embodiments described herein can be combined with other embodiments.

[0211] In the embodiments of this application, "at least one" or "at least one item" refers to one or more, and "multiple" refers to two or more.

[0212] In the embodiments of this application, "and / or" describes the association relationship between related objects, indicating that there can be three relationships. For example, A and / or B can represent the following three situations: A exists alone, A and B exist simultaneously, and B exists alone. Among them, A and B can be singular or plural.

[0213] In the embodiments of this application, "at least one of the following" or similar expressions refer to any combination of these items, including any combination of a single item or a plurality of items. For example, at least one of a, b, or c can represent the following seven cases: a, b, c, a and b, a and c, b and c, a, b, and c. Each of a, b, and c can be an element or a set containing one or more elements.

[0214] In the embodiments of this application, the terms "of," "corresponding (relevant)," "corresponding," "associated (related)," and "mapped" may sometimes be used interchangeably. It should be noted that when no distinction is emphasized, the concepts or meanings expressed are consistent.

[0215] In the embodiments of this application, "network" can be expressed as the same concept as "system," and a communication system is a communication network.

[0216] In this application, "connection" refers to various connection methods, such as direct connection or indirect connection, to achieve communication between devices, and is not specifically limited thereto.

[0217] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be described in detail below.

[0218] The communication system of this embodiment will be described in detail below.

[0219] Communication System

[0220] The technical solutions of this application embodiment can be applied to various wireless communication systems, such as: Long Term Evolution (LTE) systems, Advanced Long Term Evolution (LTE-A) systems, New Radio (NR) systems, evolution systems of NR systems, LTE-based access to unlicensed spectrum (LTE-U) systems, NR-based access to unlicensed spectrum (NR-U) systems, non-terrestrial networks (NTN) systems, Universal Mobile Telecommunication System (UMTS), 6th-Generation (6G) communication systems, or other future communication systems, etc.

[0221] It should be noted that traditional communication systems support a limited number of user connections and are easy to implement. With the development of communication technology, the communication system of this application can support not only traditional communication systems, but also communication systems such as device-to-device (D2D), machine-to-machine (M2M), machine-type communication (MTC), vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V), vehicle-to-everything (V2X), and narrowband internet of things (NB-IoT). Therefore, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application can also be applied to the above-mentioned communication systems.

[0222] For example, embodiments of this application can be applied to beamforming, carrier aggregation (CA), dual connectivity (DC), or standalone (SA) deployment scenarios.

[0223] For example, embodiments of this application can be applied to communication scenarios using unlicensed spectrum. In these embodiments, unlicensed spectrum can also be considered as shared spectrum. Alternatively, embodiments of this application can also be applied to licensed spectrum. In these embodiments, licensed spectrum can also be considered as non-shared spectrum.

[0224] As an example, the network architecture of a communication system according to an embodiment of this application can be referred to FIG1. ​​As shown in FIG1, the communication system 10 may include a network device 110 and a terminal device 120. The terminal device 120 can communicate with the network device 110 wirelessly.

[0225] Of course, Figure 1 is merely an example of a network architecture for a communication system and does not constitute a limitation on the network architecture of the communication system in this application embodiment. For example, the communication system 10 may also include a server or other devices, or the communication system 10 may include other network devices besides network device 110, or the communication system 10 may include other terminal devices besides terminal device 120.

[0226] The terminal devices and network devices mentioned in this embodiment will be described below.

[0227] Terminal equipment

[0228] Terminal equipment can be a device with transceiver capabilities, and can also be referred to as a terminal, user equipment (UE), remote terminal equipment (relay UE), relay equipment (relay UE), access terminal equipment, user unit, user station, mobile station, mobile station, remote station, mobile device, user terminal equipment, smart terminal equipment, wireless communication equipment, user agent, or user device. It should be noted that relay equipment is a terminal device capable of providing relay forwarding services to other terminal equipment (including remote terminal equipment).

[0229] For example, terminal devices can be mobile phones, tablets, computers with wireless transceiver capabilities, virtual reality (VR) terminal devices, augmented reality (AR) terminal devices, wireless terminal devices in industrial control, wireless terminal devices in autonomous driving, wireless terminal devices in remote medical care, wireless terminal devices in smart grids, wireless terminal devices in transportation safety, wireless terminal devices in smart cities, or wireless terminal devices in smart homes, etc.

[0230] For example, a terminal device can be a cellular phone, cordless phone, session initiation protocol (SIP) phone, wireless local loop (WLL) station, personal digital assistant (PDA), handheld device with wireless communication capabilities, computing device or other processing device connected to a wireless modem, in-vehicle device, wearable device, terminal device in next-generation communication systems (such as NR communication systems, 6G communication systems), or terminal device in a future public land mobile network (PLMN), etc., without specific limitations.

[0231] Furthermore, terminal devices can be deployed on land, including indoors or outdoors, handheld, wearable, or vehicle-mounted; on water (such as ships); or in the air (such as airplanes, balloons, and satellites). Terminal devices may include devices with wireless communication capabilities, such as chip systems, chips, or chip modules. For example, the chip system may include chips, and may also include other discrete devices. Terminal devices can be chips, chip modules, devices, units, etc., without specific limitations.

[0232] Network equipment

[0233] A network device is a device with transceiver capabilities that can be used to communicate with terminal devices.

[0234] Network devices may include means for providing wireless communication capabilities to terminal devices, such as chip systems, chips, or chip modules. For example, the chip system may include chips or other discrete devices. The network device provides services to a cell, and terminal devices within that cell can communicate with the network device through transmission resources (such as spectrum resources). This cell may be a macro cell, small cell, metro cell, micro cell, pico cell, or femto cell, etc.

[0235] In some possible examples, the network device has mobility characteristics; for example, the network device can be a mobile device. Optionally, the network device can be a satellite or a balloon station. For example, the satellite can be a low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite, a medium Earth orbit (MEO) satellite, a geostationary Earth orbit (GEO) satellite, a high elliptical orbit (HEO) satellite, etc. Optionally, the network device can also be a base station located on land, water, or other similar locations.

[0236] In some possible examples, network devices may include access network devices and / or devices in the core network (CN).

[0237] The access network equipment and core network equipment are described in detail below.

[0238] Access network equipment

[0239] In some possible examples, the access network device can be a RAN node in a radio access network (RAN). The RAN can consist of multiple RAN nodes (e.g., 5G-RAN nodes) that implement radio physical layer functions, resource scheduling and radio resource management, radio access control, and mobility management functions.

[0240] In some possible examples, access network devices can connect to the UPF via the user plane interface N3 to transmit data from terminal devices; access network devices can establish control plane signaling connections with the access and mobility management function (AMF) via the control plane interface N2 to implement functions such as radio access bearer control.

[0241] In some possible examples, access network equipment may include, but is not limited to, 5G node base (gNB), evolved node base (eNB), wireless access point (WiFi AP), world interoperability for microwave access base station (WiMAX BS), transmission receiving point (TRP), wireless relay node, wireless backhaul node, master node (MN) in a dual connectivity architecture, secondary node (SN) in a dual connectivity architecture, and so on.

[0242] In some possible examples, the access network device can refer to a device used to communicate with a terminal device. For example, the access network device can be a base transceiver station (BTS) in a Global System for Mobile Communication (GSM) or Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) system, a base station (nodeB, NB) in a Wideband Code Division Multiple Access (WCDMA) system, an evolved node base (eNB) in an LTE system, a radio controller in a cloud radio access network (CRAN) scenario, or a relay station, access point, vehicle-mounted equipment, wearable device, and access network equipment in future 5G networks or future evolved PLMN networks, etc. The embodiments of this application are not limited to these.

[0243] In some possible examples, the functionality of access network equipment is divided into two parts, known as centralized unit (CU) - distributed unit (DU) separation. From a protocol stack perspective, the CU includes the Radio Resource Control (RRC) layer and Packet Data Convergence Protocol (PDCP) layer of the LTE base station, while the DU includes the Radio Link Control (RLC) layer, Media Access Control (MAC) layer, and Physical (PHY) layer of the LTE base station. In a typical 5G base station deployment, the CU and DU are physically connected via fiber optic cable, and logically share a specially defined F1 interface for communication between them. Functionally, the CU is primarily responsible for radio resource control and configuration, inter-cell mobility management, and bearer management. The DU is primarily responsible for scheduling, physical signal generation, and transmission.

[0244] In some possible examples, the access network equipment can be a macro base station, micro base station, pico base station, small station, relay station, balloon station, etc.

[0245] Core network equipment

[0246] Core network equipment may include network elements that provide various functions. The term "network element" can also be referred to as an entity, device, apparatus, or module, without specific limitation. Furthermore, for ease of understanding and explanation, the description of "network element" will be omitted in some descriptions. For example, a network exposure function (NEF) network element may be abbreviated as NEF. In this case, "NEF" should be understood as either a NEF network element or a NEF entity. The following will omit descriptions of similar cases.

[0247] For example, core network equipment may include a mobility management entity (MME), a broadcast multicast service center (BMSC), or corresponding functional entities in the 5G system, such as core network control plane (CP) or user plane (UP) network functions. The core network control plane can also be understood as the core network control plane function (CPF) entity.

[0248] The following section describes the various network elements included in the core network equipment.

[0249] The session management function (SMF) is responsible for the control plane functions of terminal device session management, including the selection and control of user plane functions (UPF), Internet Protocol (IP) address allocation, session QoS management, acquisition policy and policy and charging control (PCC) policies, etc.

[0250] The user plane function (UPF) can serve as the anchor point for protocol data unit (PDU) session connections. It is responsible for filtering data packets from terminal devices, transmitting / forwarding data, rate control, generating billing information, and providing connectivity to the data network (DN).

[0251] The policy control function (PCF) can provide configuration policy information for terminal devices, provide policy information for network control plane elements (such as SMF) to manage and control terminal devices, and generate access policies and QoS flow control policies for terminal devices.

[0252] The AF (Action Center) can interact with core network elements to provide services. For example, the AF interacts with the PCF (Programmable Component Function) for service policy control, with the NEF (Network Component Function) to obtain network capability information or provide application information to the network, and with the PCF to provide data network access point information to generate corresponding data service routing information.

[0253] NEF can be responsible for providing network-related status information to application services.

[0254] The Authentication Server Function (AUSF) can implement access authentication for both 3GPP and non-3GPP systems.

[0255] Unified Data Management (UDM) provides unified data management functions, including 3GPP AKA authentication, user identification, access authorization, registration, mobility, subscription, and SMS management.

[0256] The network slice selection function (NSSF) can determine the network slice instances that a terminal device is allowed to access based on the terminal device's slice selection assistance information, subscription information, and other factors.

[0257] The network repository function (NRF) can be a new feature that provides registration and discovery capabilities, enabling network functions (NFs) to discover each other and communicate via an API interface.

[0258] Unified data management (UDM) can be responsible for the management of user identifiers, subscription data, authentication data, and user service element registration management.

[0259] The unified data repository (UDR) can be used by UDM to store or retrieve subscription data, and by PCF to store or retrieve policy data.

[0260] The network data analytics function (NWDAF) can provide network analysis services based on request data from network services.

[0261] The network slice specific authentication and authorization function (NSSAAF) can be used to provide authentication and authorization for specific network slices.

[0262] It should be noted that the terminal device connects to the access network device wirelessly, and the access network device connects to the core network device wirelessly or via a wired connection. The access network device and the core network device can be independent physical devices, or the functions of the core network device and the logical functions of the access network device can be integrated into the same physical device, or a single physical device can integrate some of the functions of the core network device and some of the functions of the access network device.

[0263] For example, Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the architecture of another communication system according to an embodiment of this application. The names of the network elements included in Figure 2 are merely names and do not limit the function of the network elements themselves. In 5G networks and other future networks, the aforementioned network elements may also have other names, and no specific limitations are made. For example, in 6G networks, some or all of the aforementioned network elements may use the terminology from 5G, or they may have other names, etc. This will be uniformly explained here and will not be elaborated further below.

[0264] Furthermore, the various network elements in Figure 2 do not necessarily need to exist simultaneously; the required network elements can be determined based on needs. The connection relationships between the various network elements in Figure 2 are also not uniquely defined and can be adjusted according to requirements. It is understood that the aforementioned network elements or functions can be network components in hardware devices, software functions running on dedicated hardware, or virtualized functions instantiated on a platform (e.g., a cloud platform).

[0265] Of course, Figure 2 is only an example of the network architecture of a communication system and does not constitute a limitation on the network architecture of the communication system in the embodiments of this application.

[0266] The communication system has been described above; the random access process will now be explained in detail.

[0267] Random access is a fundamental and important process in communication systems. Through random access, terminal devices can establish wireless links with network devices or achieve uplink synchronization, among other things.

[0268] The 4-step random access procedure consists of the following four steps: transmission of the random access request, transmission of the random access response (RAR), transmission of the physical uplink share channel (PUSCH) scheduled by the RAR, and contention resolution.

[0269] "Transmission process of random access request"

[0270] The transmission of a random access request is step 1 in the four-step random access process. In step 1, the terminal device sends a random access request message to the network device.

[0271] The random access request message can be referred to as message 1 (Msg1). Additionally, the random access request message may include a random access preamble (RA preamble). The main function of the RA preamble is to request access from the network device, enabling the network device to estimate the transmission delay between itself and the terminal device based on the RA preamble, calibrate the uplink timing accordingly, and then instruct the terminal device via RAR.

[0272] "The RAR transmission process"

[0273] The transmission of the RAR is step 2 in the four-step random access process. In step 2, after the network device receives the random access request message, it sends the RAR to the terminal device via the physical downlink shared channel (PDSCH) payload. The RAR can also be referred to as message 2 (Msg2).

[0274] In addition, RAR can be obtained by scrambling the random access-radio network temporary identifier (RA-RNTI), and the value of RA-RNTI can be determined based on the time-frequency resource location of the resources used to carry the RA preamble.

[0275] In step 2, after the terminal device sends the RA preamble, it can listen to the physical downlink control channel (PDCCH) within the RAR time window based on the RA-RNTI to obtain the DCI scrambled by the RA-RNTI. Then, the terminal device parses the PDSCH payload based on the DCI to obtain the RAR. If the RAR is not received within the RAR time window, the random access procedure is considered to have failed.

[0276] RARs can include time adjustments required for uplink synchronization, uplink resources scheduled by the RAR, and temporary cell-radio network temporary identifiers (TC-RNTIs).

[0277] The first two steps of the four-step random access process mainly complete the uplink time synchronization, while the main purpose of the last two steps is to assign a unique and legitimate identity to the terminal device for subsequent data transmission.

[0278] "PUSCH transmission process scheduled by RAR"

[0279] The PUSCH transmission scheduled by RAR is step 3 in the 4-step random access process. In step 3, after the terminal device receives the RAR, it sends message 3 (Msg3) or the PUSCH scheduled by RAR to the network device on the uplink resources scheduled by the RAR.

[0280] Msg3 may contain a Common Control Channel (CCCH) Service Data Unit (SDU) or a Cell-Radio Network Temporary Identifier (C-RNTI) MAC CE for use in collision resolution.

[0281] "Conflict resolution process"

[0282] Conflict resolution is step 4 in the four-step random access process. In step 4, after the network device receives Msg3, it sends either the PDSCH following message 3 or message 4 (Msg4) to the terminal device. The PDSCH following message 3 or Msg4 carries a unique identifier to indicate the winning terminal device, while other terminal devices that did not win in conflict resolution will re-initiate random access.

[0283] Compared to the four-step random access procedure, the two-step random access procedure helps reduce the access latency of terminal devices. The two-step random access procedure mainly includes the following two steps: transmission of message A (MsgA) and message B (MsgB).

[0284] MsgA can include two parts: the RA preamble and the Physical Uplink Shared Channel (PUSCH) payload. MsgB can include Msg2 and Msg4. Here, Msg2 refers to Msg2 in the above four-step random access process, and Msg4 refers to Msg4 in the above four-step random access process.

[0285]

RA preamble

[0286] A preamble can consist of a cyclic prefix (CP) and a sequence.

[0287] RA preamble supports four long sequences of length 839 and nine short sequences of length 139, and the length of the sequence formed by RA preamble can be indicated by the high-level parameter prach-RootSequenceIndex.

[0288] Each cell has 64 available RA preambles, forming an RA preamble sequence, and each RA preamble has a unique index within that sequence. The terminal device selects one RA preamble from this sequence (or it is specified by the network device) for transmission using a Physical Random Access Channel (PRACH) opportunity (RO), meaning the RA preamble is carried (or transmitted) by the RO.

[0289]

RO

[0290] Resource Registries (ROs) can include time-domain ROs and frequency-domain ROs. Specifically, time-domain ROs can be indicated by time-domain resource indexes, and frequency-domain ROs can be indicated by frequency-domain resource indexes.

[0291] The time-domain RO can be the time-domain location or time-domain resource of the RO. In some possible examples, network devices can configure the time-domain RO through the prach-ConfigurationIndex parameter in the higher-level parameter RACH-ConfigGeneric. For example, see Table 1 for specific configuration methods.

[0292] Table 1 defines the random access configuration for FR1 and paired spectrum / supplementary uplink. Where n f This indicates the system frame number, and x indicates the PRACH configuration period. This indicates the number of ROs within a PRACH time slot. This represents the time-domain symbol length of an RO.

[0293] Table 1

[0294] For example, when the PRACH Configuration Index is 109, the following exists:

[0295] • The random access preamble format uses A1 / B1;

[0296] System frames with even system frame indices (0, 2, 4...) contain temporal ROs (i.e., n...). f (mod 2 = 0);

[0297] • The starting position of the temporal RO is in the 4th subframe of the system frame, starting from the 0th OFDM symbol;

[0298] • The 4th subframe contains 2 PRACH slots, and each PRACH slot contains 7 One time-domain RO;

[0299] • The time-domain RO length is 2 The instantaneous domain RO occupies 2 OFDM symbols.

[0300] It should be noted that, in the embodiments of this application, the time-domain resources identified by any two adjacent time-domain resource indices can be continuous or discontinuous in the time domain. For example, the time-domain resource identified by time-domain resource index 0 is the 0th to 1st OFDM symbol in the 4th subframe of the system frame, and the time-domain resource identified by time-domain resource index 1 is the 2nd to 3rd OFDM symbol in the 4th subframe of the system frame. In this case, the time-domain resources identified by these two adjacent time-domain resource indices (i.e., time-domain resource index 0 and time-domain resource index 1) are continuous in the time domain. As another example, the time-domain resource identified by time-domain resource index 2 is the 0th to 1st OFDM symbol in the 5th subframe of the system frame, and the time-domain resource identified by time-domain resource index 3 is the 4th to 5th OFDM symbol in the 5th subframe of the system frame. In this case, the time-domain resources identified by these two adjacent time-domain resource indices (i.e., time-domain resource index 2 and time-domain resource index 3) are discontinuous in the time domain.

[0301] Frequency domain RO can be either the frequency domain location or the frequency domain resource of the RO. In some possible examples, network devices can configure the frequency domain RO through the parameters msg1-FrequencyStart and / or msg1-FDM in the higher-level parameters RACH-ConfigGeneric.

[0302] The parameter msg1-FrequencyStart in the high-level parameter RACH-ConfigGeneric can be used to configure the offset of the starting frequency domain position of the RO from the starting frequency domain position of the initial BWP or the current active BWP.

[0303] The parameter msg1-FDM in the high-level parameter RACH-ConfigGeneric can be used to configure the number of frequency domain resource indexes of RO, or the number of frequency domain ROs at the same time domain location.

[0304] For example, the parameter msg1-FDM=4 can indicate that there are 4 frequency domain ROs at the same time domain location.

[0305] Mapping between Synchronization Signal Block (SSB) and Beam

[0306] In 5G NR communication systems, as cell frequencies increase, coverage areas decrease accordingly. To increase cell coverage, some broadcast information can be transmitted using beam sweeping instead of coverage.

[0307] Beam scanning concentrates energy in one direction at a certain moment, allowing the signal to be transmitted further in that direction, while other directions cannot receive the signal; then, at the next moment, it is transmitted in another direction; ultimately, by continuously changing the beam direction, coverage of the entire cell is achieved.

[0308] The random access process of 5G NR uses beams, while SSB has multiple transmission opportunities within the time domain period and has a corresponding index, namely the SSB index.

[0309] Each beam can correspond to (map / associate) at least one SSB index, and the beams corresponding to different SSB indices may be the same (in the same direction) or different (in different directions).

[0310] SSBs are transmitted in units of 5ms half-frames, which is one SS burst set. All SSBs in an SS burst set must be periodically transmitted within the same half-frame. SSBs appear several times at intervals within a certain half-frame, and each of these SSBs corresponds to a beam scanning direction, so there will be one SSB in each direction.

[0311] For a terminal device, it only has the opportunity to send a beam mapping (RA) preamble when the SSB's beam scanning signal covers it. If the network device receives the terminal device's RA preamble, it can determine the optimal downlink beam. In other words, the network device knows which beam is pointing towards the terminal device.

[0312] Since the beam corresponds to the RA preamble, and the beam corresponds to the SSB, and the RA preamble needs to be transmitted based on the RO, that is, the RA preamble needs to be carried / transmitted by the RO, the SSB needs to be mapped to the RO so that the network device knows under which beam to send Msg2 to the terminal device.

[0313] Mapping rate between SSB and PRACH resources

[0314] Network devices can configure N SSBs (where N is configured by the L1 parameter SSB-per-rach-occasion) to map one RO (N≥1) to an end device via the higher-layer parameter ssb-perRACH-OccasionAndCB-PreamblesPerSSB. Alternatively, network devices can configure one SSB to map 1 / N ROs (where the value of N is configured by the L1 parameter SSB-per-rach-occasion) to an end device via the higher-layer parameter ssb-perRACH-OccasionAndCB-PreamblesPerSSB (N<1). For example, the value of N can be {1 / 8, 1 / 4, 1 / 2, 1, 2, 4, 8, 16}.

[0315] It should be noted that N can be considered as the mapping rate between SSB and RO. Additionally, the PRACH resource mentioned in this embodiment refers to a resource composed of RO and RA preambles. Furthermore, the mapping rate between SSB and PRACH resources can include the mapping rate between SSB and RO.

[0316] There are two configurations for N:

[0317] One scenario is where N < 1, in which case an SSB can map 1 / N valid ROs. The RA preamble mapped by this SSB starts from RA preamble index 0.

[0318] For example, if N = 1 / 8, then an SSB maps 8 ROs, and the preamble index of the starting point of these 8 ROs is 0.

[0319] Another scenario is where N ≥ 1, in which case N SSBs map to one RO. For example, SSB n can be selected from R preambles to send Msg1, 0 ≤ n ≤ N-1, where n refers to the SSB index, and the preamble mapped by SSB n is from RA preamble index. The beginning. Among them, It is configured by the high-level parameter totalNumberOfRA-Preambles and is an integer multiple of N.

[0320] For example, with N=2, For example, in this case, two SSBs map to one RO. The RA preamble index of SSB0 starts from 0, and the RA preamble index of SSB1 starts from 32. That is, SSB0 maps RA preambles with indices from 0 to 31, and SSB1 maps RA preambles with indices from 32 to 63 (i.e.,...). ) of RA preamble.

[0321] It should be noted that all ROs are valid for Frequency Division Duplexing (FDD) mode or paired spectrum.

[0322] For Time Division Duplexing (TDD) mode or unpaired spectrum, if the network side does not configure higher-layer parameters (such as tdd-UL-DL-ConfigurationCommon), then for a RO within a PRACH slot, when the time domain position of the RO is after the SSB within that PRACH slot and from the N symbol after the last SSB symbol... gap The RO is valid, i.e., a valid RO, starting after a certain symbol. Where N... gap The relationship between the RA preamble subcarrier spacing and the RA preamble subcarrier spacing is shown in Table 2.

[0323] For TDD mode or unpaired spectrum, if the network side is configured with higher-layer parameters (such as tdd-UL-DL-ConfigurationCommon), then for a single RO within a PRACH slot, the RO is valid (i.e., a valid RO) if it is within an uplink symbol. Alternatively, if the RO's time-domain position is after the SSB within the PRACH slot and from the N after the last downlink symbol... gap Starting after the first symbol, and from N after the last SSB symbol. gap Starting after a symbol, the RO is valid, i.e., a valid RO.

[0324] Table 2

[0325] In Table 2, for RA preamble sequences with subcarrier spacing (SCS) of 1.25 kHz / 5 kHz, N gap The value of is 0; for RA preamble sequences with subcarrier spacing (SCS) of 15kHz / 30kHz / 60kHz / 120kHz, N gap The value of is 2.

[0326] In summary, the mapping relationship between SSB and RO can be performed in the following order:

[0327] First, in a RO, the order of the RA preamble indexes is increasing;

[0328] Secondly, the frequency resource index of a frequency multiplexed RO is in ascending order;

[0329] Furthermore, the order of the time resource indexes of the time-multiplexed RO within a PRACH time slot is increasing;

[0330] Finally, the PRACH slot indexes are ordered in ascending order.

[0331] The following example illustrates the mapping relationship between SSB and RO.

[0332] Example 1

[0333] Taking a cell with 8 SSBs configured, each with an index from 0 to 7, and parameters msg1-FDM = 4 and ssb-perRACH-Occasion = 1 / 4 as an example, the mapping relationship between SSBs and ROs in this case is shown in Figure 3.

[0334] In Figure 3, the parameter msg1-FDM = 4 indicates that the frequency domain resource index of the RO is 0, 1, 2, and 3 for one time domain resource of the RO. Furthermore, within one RO cycle, the time domain resource index of the RO configured in the network progresses from 0 to 7.

[0335] The parameter ssb-perRACH-Occasion = 1 / 4 (i.e., N = 1 / 4) means that 1 SSB maps to 4 ROs.

[0336] Therefore, following the ascending order of the frequency domain resource index, SSB 0 is mapped sequentially to four ROs, that is, ROs with a time domain resource index of 0 and frequency domain resource indices of 0, 1, 2 and 3.

[0337] Since there are 8 SSBs, and the SSBs have not yet been mapped, according to the above "mapping principle", SSB 1 is mapped to the 4 ROs in the order of increasing frequency domain resource index. That is, when the time domain resource index of the RO is 1, the ROs with frequency domain resource indices of 0, 1, 2, and 3 are mapped, and so on.

[0338] Example 2

[0339] Taking a cell with 8 SSBs configured, each with an index from 0 to 7, parameter msg1-FDM = 4, and parameter ssb-perRACH-Occasion = 1 as an example, the mapping relationship between SSBs and ROs in this case is shown in Figure 4.

[0340] In Figure 4, the parameter msg1-FDM = 4 indicates that the frequency domain resource index of the RO is 0, 1, 2, and 3 for one time domain resource of the RO. Furthermore, within one RO cycle, the time domain resource index of the RO configured in the network progresses from 0 to 7.

[0341] The parameter ssb-perRACH-Occasion=1 indicates that one SSB maps to one RO. Therefore, following the ascending order of the frequency domain resource index, SSBs 0 to 3 are mapped sequentially to ROs with a time domain resource index of 0 and frequency domain resource indices of 0, 1, 2, and 3, respectively. That is, SSB 0 is mapped to the RO with a time domain resource index of 0 and a frequency domain resource index of 0, and so on.

[0342] Since there are 8 SSBs, and the SSBs have not yet been mapped, according to the above "mapping principle", SSBs 4 to 7 are mapped sequentially to the ROs with time domain resource index 2 and frequency domain resource indices 0, 1, 2, and 3 in ascending order of frequency domain resource index, and so on.

[0343] Example 3

[0344] Taking a cell with 8 SSBs configured, each with an index from 0 to 7, and parameters msg1-FDM=4 and ssb-perRACH-Occasion=2 as an example, the mapping relationship between SSBs and ROs in this case is shown in Figure 5.

[0345] In Figure 5, the parameter msg1-FDM = 4 indicates that the frequency domain resource index of the RO is 0, 1, 2, and 3 for one time domain resource of the RO. Furthermore, within one RO cycle, the time domain resource index of the RO configured in the network progresses from 0 to 7 sequentially.

[0346] The parameter ssb-perRACH-Occasion=2 indicates that 2 SSBs are mapped to 1 RO.

[0347] The specific mapping is as follows:

[0348] SSB 0 and 1 are mapped to the RO with time-domain resource index 0 and frequency-domain resource index 0; SSB 2 and 3 are mapped to the RO with time-domain resource index 0 and frequency-domain resource index 1; SSB 4 and 5 are mapped to the RO with time-domain resource index 0 and frequency-domain resource index 2; and SSB 6 and 7 are mapped to the RO with time-domain resource index 0 and frequency-domain resource index 3.

[0349] The random access process has been described above. The following section will provide a detailed explanation of optimizing the static energy consumption on the network side.

[0350] This embodiment considers an adaptive adjustment scheme for at least one of the time domain, frequency domain, or spatial domain of PRACH resources to achieve network energy saving and reduce the energy consumption of the network side when receiving random access request messages. It should be noted that since this embodiment involves the mapping rate between PRACH resources and SSBs, and SSBs correspond to beams, and beams involve the spatial domain, this embodiment involves the spatial domain of PRACH resources.

[0351] The following embodiment uses the interaction between a terminal device and a network device as an example for specific explanation. As shown in Figure 6, Figure 6 is a flowchart illustrating a communication method according to an embodiment of this application, which specifically includes the following steps:

[0352] S610. The network device sends a first message, which is used to indicate the PRACH resource configuration parameters.

[0353] Correspondingly, the terminal device receives the first information.

[0354] S620. The terminal device sends a first random access request message using valid PRACH resources, wherein the valid PRACH resources are determined based on PRACH resource configuration parameters.

[0355] Correspondingly, the network device uses valid PRACH resources to receive the first random access request message. It should be noted that, in conjunction with the above-mentioned "random access procedure," PRACH resources refer to resources composed of RO and RA preambles. Valid PRACH resources refer to the PRACH resources corresponding to valid ROs. That is, if the ROs included in a PRACH resource are valid ROs, then that PRACH resource is a valid PRACH resource.

[0356] As can be seen, in this embodiment, PRACH resources can be configured using the PRACH resource configuration parameters indicated by the first information, so that network devices can use the configured PRACH resources to receive random access request messages.

[0357] The following example provides a detailed explanation of the PRACH resource configuration parameters.

[0358] PRACH resource configuration parameters may include at least one of the following: PRACH configuration period, PRACH time-domain resource configuration index, PRACH configuration period scaling factor, PRACH time-domain resource scaling factor, PRACH frequency-domain resource scaling factor, PRACH resource activation or deactivation indication, or mapping rate between SSB and PRACH resource.

[0359] The following section provides a detailed explanation of how PRACH resource configuration parameters are used to determine the RO.

[0360] "PRACH Configuration Cycle"

[0361] The PRACH configuration cycle can be used to determine the RO cycle.

[0362] It is evident that the PRACH configuration period is configured through the first piece of information. Therefore, configuring the PRACH configuration period is one effective way to adjust the original PRACH configuration period, such as increasing the PRACH configuration period, thereby reducing the energy consumption of network devices receiving random access request messages by adjusting PRACH resources.

[0363] For example, the original PRACH configuration period was 4 time units, while the PRACH configuration period indicated by the first message was 8 time units, thus adjusting the PRACH configuration period from 4 time units to 8 time units.

[0364] Because the PRACH configuration period is increased, for example, the original PRACH configuration period was 10ms and there were 3 ROs within 10ms, while the PRACH configuration period indicated by the first information is 20ms and there are 3 ROs within 20ms, the network device has a longer time interval to listen to the ROs to determine whether there are random access request messages being transmitted, thereby reducing the frequency of the network device listening to the ROs, which in turn helps to reduce the energy consumption of the network device in receiving random access request messages.

[0365] It should be noted that the "time unit" mentioned in this embodiment can refer to the communication granularity between the terminal device and the network device in the time domain, that is, the terminal device and the network device communicate in the time domain with time units as the granularity / unit. For example, the time unit can be a paging period, system frame, subframe, time slot, OFDM symbol, mini time slot, millisecond, etc., and there is no limitation thereto.

[0366] [PRACH Time Domain Resource Configuration Index]

[0367] The PRACH time-domain resource configuration index can be used to determine the time-domain RO.

[0368] It should be noted that there is a correspondence between the PRACH time-domain resource configuration index and the PRACH time-domain resource configuration parameters. For example, the PRACH configuration index in Table 1 can be a PRACH time-domain resource configuration index. That is, one set of PRACH resource time-domain configuration parameters corresponds to one PRACH time-domain resource configuration index.

[0369] As can be seen, the PRACH time-domain resources can be determined through the PRACH time-domain resource configuration index indicated by the first information, so as to configure the PRACH time-domain resources. In this way, configuring the PRACH time-domain resources is one of the effective ways to adjust the original PRACH time-domain resources, such as reducing the PRACH time-domain resources, thereby reducing the energy consumption of network devices in receiving random access request messages by adjusting the PRACH time-domain resource configuration.

[0370]

PRACH Configuration Cycle Scaling Factor

[0371] The PRACH time-domain resource configuration index can be used to determine the time-domain RO. The PRACH configuration period scaling factor can be used to scale the PRACH configuration period. Specifically, the PRACH configuration period scaling factor can be multiplied or divided by the original PRACH configuration period to adjust the original PRACH configuration period.

[0372] For example, if the original PRACH configuration period is 4 time units and the PRACH configuration period scaling factor is 2, then the new PRACH configuration period is 4*2 (i.e. 8) time units, thus adjusting the PRACH configuration period from 4 time units to 8 time units.

[0373] For example, if the PRACH configuration period scaling factor is divided by the original PRACH configuration period, and the original PRACH configuration period is 4 time units and the PRACH configuration period scaling factor is 1 / 2, then the new PRACH configuration period is 4*2 (i.e. 8) time units, thus adjusting the PRACH configuration period from 4 time units to 8 time units.

[0374] It is evident that if the PRACH resource configuration parameters include a PRACH configuration period scaling factor, then the PRACH configuration period is configured using the PRACH configuration period scaling factor indicated by the first information. Thus, configuring the PRACH configuration period is one effective way to adjust the original PRACH configuration period. For example, increasing the PRACH configuration period adjusts the PRACH resources, thereby reducing the energy consumption of network devices receiving random access request messages, improving the energy efficiency of network devices, and achieving the goal of energy saving for network devices.

[0375]

PRACH Time Domain Resource Scaling Factor

[0376] PRACH time-domain resources can include time-domain ROs. PRACH time-domain resource scaling factors can be used to scale the number of time-domain ROs. For example, PRACH time-domain resource scaling factors can reduce the number of time-domain resource indices in the original time-domain ROs, thereby adjusting the original PRACH time-domain resources.

[0377] It is evident that if the PRACH resource configuration parameters include a PRACH time-domain resource scaling factor, then the PRACH time-domain resources are configured using the PRACH time-domain resource scaling factor indicated by the first information. Thus, configuring PRACH time-domain resources is one effective way to adjust the original PRACH time-domain resources, such as reducing PRACH time-domain resources. This adjustment reduces the energy consumption of network devices receiving random access request messages, improves the energy efficiency of network devices, and achieves the goal of energy saving for network devices.

[0378] In some possible embodiments, the PRACH time-domain resource scaling factor can determine the valid RO corresponding to the valid PRACH resource, so as to send a random access request message using the valid RO. The time-domain resource index i of the valid RO satisfies the following formula:

[0379] i mod(1 / K1) = 0, or i mod(1 / (K0*K1)) = 0; or,

[0380] i mod(K1)=0, or i mod(K0*K1)=0;

[0381] Where / represents division, * represents multiplication, K0 represents the first value of the PRACH time-domain resource scaling factor, and K1 represents the second value of the PRACH time-domain resource scaling factor. The second value refers to the value indicated by the first information, and the first value refers to the value before the first information indicates the second value. In other words, the first value is an old value of the PRACH time-domain resource scaling factor, while the second value is a new value of the PRACH time-domain resource scaling factor indicated by the first information.

[0382] i mod(1 / K1) = 0 or i mod(K1) = 0 can be understood as determining the time-domain resource index of the valid RO based on K1, based on the time-domain resource index of the RO configured at the beginning of the network.

[0383] i mod(1 / (K0*K1))=0 can be understood as follows: first, determine the time-domain resource index of the effective RO determined by K0 based on i mod(1 / K0)=0 or i mod(K1)=0; then, renumber the time-domain resource index of the effective RO determined by K0; finally, determine the time-domain resource index of the effective RO based on K1 based on the renumbered time-domain resource index.

[0384] For example, taking the ROs shown in Figure 3 as an example, assume that all ROs shown in Figure 3 are valid ROs. In this case, the time-domain resource indices of the valid ROs shown in Figure 3 are sequentially from 0 to 7. These time-domain resource indices can be the time-domain resource indices of the ROs initially configured in the network, or they can be time-domain resource indices that are renumbered after the time-domain resource indices of the valid ROs determined by K0.

[0385] When the PRACH time-domain resource scaling factor indicated by the first information is K1 = 1 / 2, according to the formula i mod(1 / K1) = 0 or i mod(1 / (K0*K1)) = 0, the ROs with time-domain resource indices 0, 2, 4, and 6 are valid ROs, but the ROs with time-domain resource indices 1, 3, 5, and 7 become invalid ROs, as shown in Figure 7. At this time, it is equivalent to reducing the number of valid ROs by 1 / 2, thereby adjusting the valid ROs.

[0386] When the PRACH time-domain resource scaling factor indicated by the first information is K1 = 2, according to the formula i mod(K1) = 0 or i mod(K0*K1) = 0, the ROs with time-domain resource indices 0, 2, 4, and 6 are valid ROs, but the ROs with time-domain resource indices 1, 3, 5, and 7 become invalid ROs, as shown in Figure 7. At this time, it is equivalent to reducing the number of valid ROs by 1 / 2, thereby adjusting the valid ROs.

[0387] Finally, since the time-domain resource indices of the valid ROs determined by K1 are 0, 2, 4 and 6, this embodiment can renumber the time-domain resource indices of the valid ROs determined by K1, and the renumbered time-domain resource indices are 0, 1, 2 and 3.

[0388] In some possible examples, the temporal resource index i of a valid RO is renumbered from the position where the first information takes effect. The position where the first information takes effect will be explained in detail below and will not be repeated here.

[0389]

PRACH Frequency Domain Resource Scaling Factor

[0390] PRACH frequency domain resources can include frequency-shifted origins (ROs). PRACH frequency domain resource scaling factors can be used to scale the number of frequency-shifted ROs. Specifically, PRACH frequency domain resource scaling factors can reduce the number of frequency domain resource indices for the original frequency-shifted ROs, thereby enabling adjustments to the original PRACH frequency domain resources.

[0391] It is evident that if the PRACH resource configuration parameters include a PRACH frequency domain resource scaling factor, then the PRACH frequency domain resources are configured using the scaling factor indicated by the first information. In this way, configuring PRACH frequency domain resources is one effective way to adjust the original PRACH frequency domain resources, such as reducing PRACH frequency domain resources. This adjustment reduces the energy consumption of network devices receiving random access request messages, improves the energy efficiency of network devices, and ultimately achieves the goal of energy saving for network devices.

[0392] In some possible embodiments, the PRACH frequency domain resource scaling factor can determine the effective Resource Origin (RO) so that a random access request message can be sent using the effective RO. The frequency domain resource index j of the effective RO satisfies the following formula:

[0393] j mod(1 / P1) = 0, or j mod(1 / (P0*P1)) = 0; or,

[0394] j mod(P1) = 0, or j mod(P0*P1) = 0;

[0395] Where / represents division, * represents multiplication, P0 represents the first value of the PRACH frequency domain resource scaling factor, and P1 represents the second value of the PRACH frequency domain resource scaling factor. The second value refers to the value indicated by the first information, and the first value refers to the value before the first information indicates the second value. In other words, the first value is an old value of the PRACH frequency domain resource scaling factor, while the second value is a new value of the PRACH frequency domain resource scaling factor indicated by the first information.

[0396] For example, taking the ROs shown in Figure 3 as an example, assume that all ROs shown in Figure 3 are valid ROs. In this case, the frequency domain resource indices of the valid ROs shown in Figure 3 are sequentially from 0 to 3. These frequency domain resource indices can be the frequency domain resource indices of the ROs initially configured in the network, or they can be frequency domain resource indices that are renumbered after the frequency domain resource indices of the valid ROs determined by P0.

[0397] When the PRACH frequency domain resource scaling factor indicated by the first information is P1 = 1 / 2, according to the formula j mod(1 / P1) = 0 or j mod(1 / (P0*P1)) = 0, the ROs with frequency domain resource indices 0 and 2 are valid ROs, but the ROs with frequency domain resource indices 1 and 3 are invalid ROs, as shown in Figure 8. At this time, it is equivalent to reducing the number of valid ROs by 1 / 2, thereby adjusting the valid ROs.

[0398] When the PRACH frequency domain resource scaling factor indicated by the first information is K1 = 2, according to the formula i mod(P1) = 0 or i mod(P0*P1) = 0, the ROs with frequency domain resource indices 0 and 2 are valid ROs, but the ROs with frequency domain resource indices 1 and 3 are invalid ROs, as shown in Figure 8. At this time, it is equivalent to reducing the number of valid ROs by 1 / 2, thereby adjusting the valid ROs.

[0399] Finally, since the frequency domain resource indices of the valid ROs determined by P1 are 0 and 2, this example can renumber the frequency domain resource indices of the valid ROs determined by P1, and the renumbered frequency domain resource indices are 0 and 1.

[0400] In some possible examples, the frequency domain resource index j of the valid RO is renumbered from the position where the first information takes effect. The position where the first information takes effect will be explained in detail below and will not be repeated here.

[0401] [PRACH resource activation or deactivation instructions]

[0402] The PRACH resource activation or deactivation indication can be used to activate or deactivate Resource Requests (ROs). Only activated ROs can be used to transmit random access request messages.

[0403] It is evident that if the PRACH resource configuration parameters include a PRACH resource activation or deactivation indication, the original PRACH resource can be activated or deactivated using the first information. Activation or deactivation of PRACH resources can serve as an effective way to adjust the original PRACH resources. For example, the first information can be used to deactivate the activated original PRACH resources to reduce the number of activated PRACH resources, thereby adjusting the PRACH resources. This adjustment of PRACH resources can reduce the energy consumption of network devices in receiving random access request messages, improve the energy efficiency of network devices, and achieve the goal of energy saving for network devices.

[0404] For example, taking the ROs shown in Figure 3 as the original PRACH resources, the frequency shift resource indices of the ROs in Figure 3 range from 0 to 7, and the frequency domain resource indices of the ROs in Figure 3 range from 0 to 3, and assuming that these ROs are active. When the first information instructs the ROs with frequency domain resource indices of 0 and 2 to be deactivated, only the ROs with frequency domain resource indices of 1 and 3 are active. This is equivalent to reducing the number of active ROs by half, thereby achieving the adjustment of the ROs.

[0405] Mapping rate between SSB and PRACH resources

[0406] The mapping rate between SSB and PRACH resources can include the mapping rate between SSB and RO.

[0407] It is evident that if the PRACH resource configuration parameters include the mapping rate between the SSB and the PRACH resource, then the mapping rate is configured through the first information. Thus, configuring the mapping rate serves as an effective way to adjust the original mapping rate. Adjusting the mapping rate can adjust the PRACH resource, thereby reducing the energy consumption of network devices receiving random access request messages, improving the energy efficiency of network devices, and achieving the goal of energy saving.

[0408] For example, taking the mapping rate between SSB and RO as an example, in Figure 3 above, the mapping rate between SSB and RO is 1 / 4 (i.e., parameter ssb-perRACH-Occasion = 1 / 4). At this time, when the first information indicates that the mapping rate between SSB and RO is 1 / 2, this is equivalent to adjusting the mapping rate between SSB and RO from 1 / 4 to 1 / 2.

[0409] Furthermore, the "original PRACH configuration period," "original PRACH resources," and "original mapping rate" mentioned above can be configured by the network device via signaling before the network device sends the first information. For example, during the downlink synchronization process of cell search, the network device can configure at least one of the original PRACH configuration period, original PRACH resources, or original mapping rate to the terminal device through SIB1.

[0410] The following embodiment provides an example of signaling / information used to carry the first information.

[0411] In some possible examples, the initial information may be carried by paging DCI, paging early indication (PEI), scheduling DCI, MAC CE, or system information (such as SIB1 or OSI).

[0412] The first information will be explained below from the perspectives of paging DCI, PEI, scheduling DCI, MAC CE, and system information.

[0413] The first message is carried by the paging DCI.

[0414] When a network device needs to page a terminal device, the terminal device can listen to the paging-related PDCCH to complete the paging process. The paging DCI in the paging-related PDCCH is scrambled with the paging-radio network tempory identity (P-RNTI).

[0415] When a terminal device detects a paging DCI scrambled by P-RNTI, the terminal device can obtain paging scheduling information, public warning system (PWS) notifications, or system information updates through the paging DCI.

[0416] PWS notifications can include primary notifications from the Earthquake and Tsunami Warning System (ETWS), secondary notifications from ETWS, or notifications from the Commercial Mobile Alert System (CMAS).

[0417] Paging scheduling information can be used to schedule the paging-related physical downlink share channel (PDSCH) so that terminal devices can obtain paging messages through the PDSCH.

[0418] It should be noted that before listening to the paging-related PDCCH, the terminal device can complete time-frequency synchronization and automatic gain control (AGC) adjustments based on downlink reference signals (such as SSB).

[0419] Additionally, terminal devices in RRC idle or RRC inactive states can use discontinuous reception (DRX) to listen for paging-related PDCCH to reduce power consumption. A DRX cycle can include at least one paging frame (PF), and the DRX cycle can also be called a paging cycle. A PF can be a radio frame or a system frame, and can contain one or more paging occasions (POs).

[0420] For example, as shown in Figure 9, a paging cycle includes four POs: PO1, PO2, PO3, and PO4. The network device sends the paging DCI on PO3; correspondingly, the terminal device listens for the paging DCI on PO3. Furthermore, the start position of a paging cycle can be the start subframe, start time slot, or start symbol, etc. The end position of a paging cycle can be the end subframe, end time slot, or end symbol, etc.

[0421] A Point of Interest (PO) can be used to determine the starting point of the listening occasion within a Page Frame (PF), represent the temporal location of a paging-related PDCCH, be used to transmit paging DCI, and can consist of multiple subframes, multiple time slots, or multiple OFDM symbols. It can also consist of multiple paging-related PDCCH listening occasions. The paging-related PDCCH listening occasion is also called the paging PDCCH monitoring occasion (PMO). Therefore, a PO can contain multiple PMOs, or a PO can be composed of a set of PMOs.

[0422] Additionally, a Point of Purchase (PO) can be associated with one or more subgroups / groups of terminal devices. The subgroups associated with a PO can be understood as a collection of terminal devices associated with the same PO. Furthermore, the terminal devices associated with a PO will only listen to that PO in order to perform paging-related PDCCH listening.

[0423] In some possible examples, the paging DCI includes short message indicator information. Therefore, this embodiment can consider determining whether the paging DCI carries the first information based on the value of the short message indicator information, as follows:

[0424] One approach is that if the short message indication information takes a first preset value, then the paging DCI only includes the first information and the short message indication information. The first preset value can be specified by network configuration, pre-configuration, or a standard protocol. In this way, the terminal device determines that the paging DCI carries the first information based on the value of the short message indication information.

[0425] One approach is that if the short message indication field takes a second preset value, the paging DCI only includes the first information, the short message indication information, and the paging scheduling information. The second preset value can be specified by network configuration, pre-configuration, or a standard protocol. In this way, the terminal device determines that the paging DCI carries the first information based on the value of the short message indication information.

[0426] One approach is that if the short message indication field takes a third preset value, the paging DCI only includes the first information, the short message indication information, and the short message. The third preset value can be specified by network configuration, pre-configuration, or a standard protocol. Additionally, the short message is used to indicate PWS notifications or system information updates, etc. In this way, the terminal device determines that the paging DCI carries the first information based on the value of the short message indication information.

[0427] The following example uses a short message indication (SMI) field consisting of 2 bits, with a first preset value of 00, a second preset value of 01, and a third preset value of 10, as shown in Table 3. In Table 3, if the SMI value is 00, the paging DCI includes only the first information and the SMI; if the SMI value is 01, the paging DCI includes only the first information, the SMI, and the paging scheduling information; if the SMI value is 10, the paging DCI includes only the first information, the SMI, and the short message; and if the SMI value is 11, the paging DCI includes the paging scheduling information, the SMI, and the short message.

[0428] Table 3

[0429] In some possible examples, the timing of when the first message takes effect can be specified by network configuration or standard protocols. Here, "first message taking effect" can be understood as the PRACH resource configuration parameters indicated by the first message becoming effective. When the first message is carried by the paging DCI, the position at which the first message takes effect can satisfy the following:

[0430] One approach is to make the first message effective at the end or beginning of the paging cycle of the PO corresponding to the paging DCI. In other words, the first message takes effect from the end or beginning of the paging cycle of the PO corresponding to the paging DCI. Here, the PO corresponding to the paging DCI can be understood as the PO where the paging DCI is located.

[0431] For example, in Figure 9, the paging DCI is on PO3, and this paging DCI carries first information. The first information takes effect from the end or beginning position of the paging cycle in which PO3 is located.

[0432] The reason for specifying the starting position of the first information message is that different terminal devices may hear the paging DCI message carrying the first information on different POs within the same paging cycle. For example, in Figure 9, some terminal devices hear the paging DCI message carrying the first information on PO1, while other terminal devices hear it on PO3. Therefore, specifying that the first information message takes effect from the end or beginning position of the paging cycle of the PO corresponding to the paging DCI helps ensure that the first information message heard by different terminal devices on different POs within the same paging cycle can take effect at the same position.

[0433] One approach is to set the starting point of the first information message to be X time units later than the end or start point of the PO corresponding to the paging DCI, where X is a positive integer. In other words, the first information message takes effect X time units after the end or start point of the PO corresponding to the paging DCI. This way, the first information message detected by different terminal devices on different POs within the same paging cycle can take effect at the same location.

[0434] For example, as shown in Figure 10, the terminal device listens for a paging DCI carrying the first information on PO3, and the position where the first information begins to take effect is the position where the end position of PO3 is delayed by X time units. Furthermore, X time units can be X milliseconds, X time slots, X symbols, X subframes, X system frames, or X paging cycles, etc., and the value of X can be determined by network configuration, standard protocol specifications, or a default value.

[0435] One approach is to set the starting point of the first message to the end of the PO corresponding to the paging DCI. In other words, the first message takes effect from the end of the PO corresponding to the paging DCI. This way, the first message detected by different terminal devices on different POs can take effect from the end of their respective POs.

[0436] [The first message is carried by PEI]

[0437] To save power consumption in terminal devices, in DRX scenarios, a PEI can be associated with one or more POs, and the PEI's location must precede the location of the PO it is associated with. The PEI can be used to indicate whether the terminal device should listen to the PO associated with it, thus achieving energy saving. Furthermore, the PEI can be a DCI or a sequence. For example, the PEI can be in DCI format 2_7.

[0438] Terminal devices can listen to PEI during PEI listening times. For example, as shown in Figure 11, there are multiple SSBs between the PEI listening time, the location of the PO associated with the PEI, and the location of the PO associated with the PEI.

[0439] PEI listening time can represent the time-domain location of the PEI being listened to, and can be used to transmit PEI. It can consist of multiple subframes, multiple time slots, or multiple OFDM symbols. In addition, a paging cycle can include one or more PEI listening times.

[0440] In some possible examples, the first piece of information is the common bits in the PEI. These common bits can be bits used to indicate all terminal devices associated with the PEI during its monitoring. Thus, the common bits are used to indicate PRACH resource configuration parameters.

[0441] In some possible examples, the first piece of information can be an existing field in the PEI. An existing field refers to a field that already exists and is used in the current PEI. For example, the first piece of information could be a paging indication field in the PEI. In this way, the indication PRACH resource configuration parameters are implemented by reusing or redefining existing fields in the PEI.

[0442] In some possible examples, the first piece of information could be a dedicated field in the PEI. A dedicated field can refer to a newly added field in the existing PEI specifically designed to indicate PRACH resource configuration parameters. For example, reserved bits in the existing PEI could be used as a dedicated field.

[0443] In some possible examples, the timing of when the first information takes effect can be specified by network configuration or standard protocols. Specifically, when the first information is carried by the PEI, the point at which the first information takes effect can satisfy the following:

[0444] One approach is to make the first message effective at the end or beginning of the paging cycle corresponding to the PEI's monitoring timing. In other words, the first message takes effect from the end or beginning of the paging cycle corresponding to the PEI's monitoring timing. Here, the PEI's monitoring timing can be understood as the PEI's monitoring timing, as shown in Figure 11.

[0445] The reason for specifying the starting point of the first information is that different terminal devices may detect the PEI carrying the first information at different PEI monitoring times within the same paging cycle. Therefore, specifying that the first information takes effect from the end or beginning of the paging cycle corresponding to the PEI monitoring time helps ensure that the first information detected by different terminal devices at different PEI monitoring times within the same paging cycle can take effect at the same position.

[0446] One approach is to set the starting point for the first information to take effect at a position Y time units later than the end or start point of the PEI listening time corresponding to the PEI, where Y is a positive integer. In other words, the first information takes effect Y time units later than the end or start point of the PEI listening time corresponding to the PEI. Furthermore, Y time units can be Y milliseconds, Y time slots, Y symbols, Y subframes, Y system frames, or Y paging cycles, etc., and the value of Y can be determined by network configuration, standard protocols, or default settings. This way, the first information detected by different terminal devices at different PEI listening times within the same paging cycle can take effect at the same location.

[0447] One approach is to set the starting point of the first information to the end of the PEI listening timeframe corresponding to the PEI. In other words, the first information takes effect from the end of the PEI listening timeframe corresponding to the PEI. This way, the first information detected by different terminal devices at different PEI listening times can take effect from the end of their respective PEI listening times.

[0448] The first piece of information is carried by the scheduling DCI.

[0449] Scheduling DCI can refer to DCI used to schedule uplink or downlink to terminal devices. For example, scheduling DCI can schedule resources, modulation and coding strategies, etc., required for uplink transmission to terminal devices.

[0450] In some possible examples, the first piece of information could be an existing field in the scheduling DCI. An existing field refers to a field that already exists and is used in the existing scheduling DCI. For example, the first piece of information could be a resource allocation field in the scheduling DCI. Thus, by reusing or redefining existing fields in the scheduling DCI, the PRACH resource configuration parameters can be indicated.

[0451] In some possible examples, the first piece of information could be a dedicated field in the scheduling DCI. This dedicated field could refer to a newly added field in the existing scheduling DCI, specifically designed to indicate PRACH resource configuration parameters. For example, a reserved field in the existing scheduling DCI could be used as the dedicated field.

[0452] In some possible examples, the timing of when the first information takes effect can be specified by network configuration or standard protocols. Specifically, when the first information is carried by the scheduling DCI, the point at which the first information takes effect can satisfy the following:

[0453] One approach is to set the starting point of the first information to be Z time units above the end point of the time-domain resource corresponding to the scheduled DCI, where Z is a positive integer. In other words, the first information takes effect Z time units after the end point of the time-domain resource corresponding to the scheduled DCI. The time-domain resource corresponding to the scheduled DCI can be understood as the time-domain resource used to carry the scheduled DCI. Furthermore, Z time units can be Z milliseconds, Z time slots, Z symbols, Z subframes, or Z system frames, and the value of Z can be determined by network configuration, standard protocol specifications, or a default value.

[0454] One approach is to set the first information to take effect at the end of the time-domain resource corresponding to the scheduled DCI. In other words, the first information takes effect from the end of the time-domain resource corresponding to the scheduled DCI.

[0455] The first message is carried by the scheduling MAC CE.

[0456] A MAC CE can be identified by a MAC subheader. The logical channel ID (LCID) of the MAC CE, which carries the initial information, is a specific value.

[0457] In some possible examples, the first piece of information could be one or more fields in the MAC CE.

[0458] For example, taking the PRACH resource configuration parameters, including the PRACH resource activation or deactivation indication and the mapping rate between the SSB and the PRACH resource, as shown in Figure 12, the MAC CE contains the following fields:

[0459] BWP ID field: This field can be used to indicate the bandwidth portion (BWP) to which this MAC CE applies, and the length of this field is 2 bits;

[0460] R field: This field indicates that it is reserved;

[0461] A / D field: This field can be used to indicate whether the PRACH resource is active or deactivated. The length of this field is 1 bit. If the 1 bit is 1, it indicates that the PRACH resource is active; if the 1 bit is 0, it indicates that the PRACH resource is deactivated.

[0462] MR field: This field is used to indicate the mapping rate between SSB and PRACH resources.

[0463] In some possible examples, the timing of when the first information takes effect can be specified by network configuration or standard protocols. Specifically, when the first information is carried by a MAC CE, the point at which the first information takes effect can satisfy the following:

[0464] One approach is to set the starting point for the first information to take effect at a position W time units later than the end of the time-domain resource corresponding to the MAC CE, where W is a positive integer. In other words, the first information takes effect W time units after the end of the time-domain resource corresponding to the MAC CE. The time-domain resource corresponding to the MAC CE can be understood as the time-domain resource used to carry the MAC CE. Furthermore, W time units can be W milliseconds, W time slots, W symbols, W subframes, or W system frames, and the value of W can be determined by network configuration, standard protocol specifications, or a default value.

[0465] One approach is to set the starting point of the first information to the end of the time-domain resource corresponding to the MAC CE. In other words, the first information takes effect from the end of the time-domain resource corresponding to the MAC CE.

[0466] One approach is to set the first information to take effect at the time domain location of the first Return Entity (RO) following the time domain resource corresponding to the MAC CE. In other words, the first information takes effect from the time domain location of the first RO following the time domain resource corresponding to the MAC CE.

[0467] [The first piece of information is carried by the system information]

[0468] In some possible examples, system information can be minimum system information (MSI), remaining minimum system information (RMSI), or other system information (OSI). MSI can include the master information block (MIB) and SIB1, RMSI can include SIB1, and OSI can include SIB2, SIB3, ..., SIB9, etc.

[0469] In some possible examples, when the first information is carried by the SIB, the starting point for the first information to take effect can be the end position of the system information window where the SIB is located. That is, the first information takes effect from the end position of the system information window where the SIB is located.

[0470] The following example illustrates the effective duration of the first message.

[0471] The validity period of the first message can refer to the time period from when the first message becomes effective to when it becomes invalid, or the time period from when the PRACH resource configuration parameters indicated by the first message become effective to when they become invalid. Within this time period, the first message / PRACH resource configuration parameters are considered valid and can be used; after this time period, the first message / PRACH resource configuration parameters may become invalid or no longer applicable.

[0472] It should be noted that the validity period of the first information can be configured by higher-layer signaling (such as system information or RRC signaling). That is, the network device can send this higher-layer signaling to the terminal device and configure the validity period of the first information through this signaling. For example, taking the higher-layer signaling carrying second information as an example, in Figure 6 above, after S610, the network device sends the second information, which is used to configure the validity period of the first information; correspondingly, the terminal device receives the second information. Then, the terminal device executes S620. In this way, the validity period of the first information is configured by the network through the second information.

[0473] Furthermore, the starting position of the validity period of the first information is the position where the first information begins to take effect. In this way, when the terminal device obtains the position where the first information begins to take effect, it can determine the starting position of the validity period of the first information.

[0474] It should be noted that, as discussed above, the starting point of the first information's effectiveness will differ depending on the signaling / information carried by it; this will not be elaborated upon further. For example, based on Figure 10, as shown in Figure 13, the starting position of the first information's effective duration is X time units past the end position of PO3.

[0475] The following section provides a detailed explanation of how the terminal device recommends the mapping rate between SSB and PRACH resources to the network device using PRACH resources. For ease of description, this embodiment will refer to "the mapping rate between SSB and PRACH resources" simply as "mapping rate".

[0476] Based on the above, it can be seen that the network device can indicate the mapping rate through the first information in order to adjust the mapping rate. However, before the network device indicates the mapping rate through the first information, this embodiment considers that the terminal device can use PRACH resources to recommend a mapping rate to the network device, so that the network device can refer to the mapping rate recommended by the terminal device. In this way, the network device can first refer to the mapping rate recommended by the terminal device, and then indicate the mapping rate through the first information.

[0477] To enable terminal devices to recommend mapping rates to network devices using PRACH resources, as shown in Figure 14, which is a flowchart of another communication method according to an embodiment of this application, the method specifically includes the following steps:

[0478] S1410. The network device sends first configuration information, which is used to configure the mapping rate set corresponding to each SSB in at least one actually transmitted SSB, and the first PRACH resource set associated with each SSB.

[0479] Correspondingly, the terminal device receives the first configuration information.

[0480] It should be noted that the network device configures at least one actually transmitted SSB information, and configures the mapping rate set corresponding to each SSB in the at least one actually transmitted SSB, as well as the first PRACH resource set associated with each SSB, through the first configuration information. Each mapping rate in the mapping rate set corresponding to each SSB corresponds to one or more PRACH resources in the first PRACH resource set associated with that SSB.

[0481] It is understandable that the set of mapping rates corresponding to an SSB can refer to the set of one or more mapping rates associated with that SSB; the first set of PRACH resources associated with that SSB can refer to the set of PRACH resources associated with that SSB, which consists of the subset of PRACH resources corresponding to the set of mapping rates associated with that SSB.

[0482] For example, taking the case where at least one SSB actually transmitted includes SSB1 and SSB2, the network device configures SSB1 via signaling as follows:

[0483] SSB1 corresponds to mapping rate 1_1 and mapping rate 1_2; thus, the set of mapping rates corresponding to SSB1 includes mapping rate 1_1 and mapping rate 1_2.

[0484] SSB1 is associated with PRACH resources 1_1, 1_2, 1_3, 1_4, 1_5, and 1_6. Mapping rate 1_1 corresponds to PRACH resource 1_1; mapping rate 1_2 corresponds to PRACH resources 1_2 and 1_3. Therefore, the first set of PRACH resources corresponding to SSB1 includes PRACH resources 1_1, 1_2, and 1_3.

[0485] The network device is configured for SSB2 via signaling as follows:

[0486] SSB2 corresponds to mapping rates 2_1, 2_2, and 2_3; thus, the set of mapping rates corresponding to SSB2 includes 2_1, 2_2, and 2_3.

[0487] SSB2 is associated with PRACH resources 2_1, 2_2, 2_3, 2_4, 2_5, and 2_6. Mapping rate 2_1 corresponds to PRACH resource 2_1; mapping rate 2_2 corresponds to PRACH resource 2_2; and mapping rate 2_3 corresponds to both PRACH resources 2_3 and 2_4. Therefore, the first set of PRACH resources corresponding to SSB2 includes PRACH resources 2_1, 2_2, 2_3, and 2_4.

[0488] In some possible examples, the initial configuration information is carried by signaling (such as RRC signaling, MAC signaling), system information (such as SIB or OSI), or DCI.

[0489] In some possible examples, the first set of PRACH resources associated with an SSB is the first N PRACH resources among the PRACH resources associated with that SSB, where an SSB represents any one of at least one actually transmitted SSB, and N is a positive integer.

[0490] S1420. The terminal device sends a second random access request message using the first PRACH resource. Correspondingly, the network device receives the second random access request message using the first PRACH resource.

[0491] The first PRACH resource is a PRACH resource corresponding to the first mapping rate in the first PRACH resource set associated with the first SSB.

[0492] Wherein, the first SSB is one of the at least one actually transmitted SSBs and the signal strength of the first SSB is greater than the first preset threshold value, and the first mapping rate is one of the mapping rates in the set of mapping rates corresponding to the first SSB.

[0493] It should be noted that since the network device configures the at least one actually transmitted SSB information, the terminal device can detect the signal strength of each SSB in the at least one actually transmitted SSB. The SSB signal strength can be the SSB reference signal received power (RSRP), the SSB received signal strength indicator (RSSI), the SSB signal-to-interference plus noise ratio (SINR), or the SSB reference signal received quality (RSRQ).

[0494] Then, the terminal device can determine a first SSB from the at least one actually transmitted SSB whose signal strength is greater than a first preset threshold value. The first preset threshold value can be specified by network configuration or a standard protocol.

[0495] Finally, the terminal device can select a mapping rate from the set of mapping rates corresponding to the first SSB, i.e., the first mapping rate. The first mapping rate can be any mapping rate in the set of mapping rates corresponding to the first SSB. It can be the first mapping rate, the mapping rate with the largest value, or the mapping rate with the smallest value. There are no specific restrictions on this.

[0496] Furthermore, since each mapping rate in the mapping rate set corresponding to the first SSB corresponds to one or more PRACH resources in the first PRACH resource set associated with the first SSB, the terminal device can determine a PRACH resource corresponding to the first mapping rate in the first PRACH resource set associated with the first SSB, i.e., the first PRACH resource. In other words, the first mapping rate corresponds to the first PRACH resource.

[0497] In this way, the terminal device can use the first PRACH resource to recommend a mapping rate to the network device, so that the network device can refer to the first mapping rate.

[0498] S1430. The network device sends the first message.

[0499] Correspondingly, the terminal device receives the first information.

[0500] It should be noted that when the network device adopts the first mapping rate recommended by the terminal device, the network device can indicate the first mapping rate through the first information. That is, the PRACH resource configuration parameters indicated by the first information include the first mapping rate. When the network device does not adopt the first mapping rate recommended by the terminal device, the network device can indicate a second mapping rate through the first information, and the second mapping rate is different from the first mapping rate. The specific second mapping rate is determined by the network device itself. In other words, the PRACH resource configuration parameters indicated by the first information include the second mapping rate.

[0501] The following describes the process by which a terminal device uses PRACH resources to recommend the activation or deactivation of PRACH resources to a network device.

[0502] Based on the above, it can be seen that network devices can use the first information to instruct PRACH resources to activate or deactivate, thereby adjusting the original PRACH resources. However, before the network device instructs the activation or deactivation of PRACH resources via the first information, this embodiment considers that the terminal device can use PRACH resources to recommend which PRACH resources(s) to activate or deactivate to the network device, so that the network device can refer to the recommended PRACH resources from the terminal device for activation or deactivation. In this way, the network device can first refer to the recommended PRACH resources from the terminal device for activation or deactivation, and then instruct the activation or deactivation of PRACH resources via the first information.

[0503] To enable terminal devices to recommend PRACH resource activation or deactivation to network devices using PRACH resources, as shown in Figure 15, which is a flowchart of another communication method according to an embodiment of this application, the method specifically includes the following steps:

[0504] S1510. The network device sends second configuration information, which is used to configure a second PRACH resource set associated with each SSB in at least one actually transmitted SSB and a third PRACH resource set associated with each SSB.

[0505] Each PRACH resource in the second PRACH resource set associated with an SSB is used to indicate activation or deactivation of the third PRACH resource set associated with that SSB, where an SSB represents any one of at least one actually transmitted SSB.

[0506] Correspondingly, the terminal device receives the second configuration information.

[0507] It should be noted that the network device configures the at least one actually transmitted SSB information, and configures the second PRACH resource set associated with each SSB and the third PRACH resource set associated with each SSB through the second configuration information. Furthermore, each PRACH resource in the second PRACH resource set associated with an SSB is used to indicate whether to activate or deactivate all PRACH resources in the third PRACH resource set associated with that SSB.

[0508] In some possible examples, a portion of the PRACH resources in the second PRACH resource set associated with the SSB are used to indicate activation of the third PRACH resource set associated with the SSB, and the remaining PRACH resources are used to indicate deactivation of the third PRACH resource set associated with the SSB.

[0509] For example, taking the case where at least one SSB actually transmitted includes SSB1 and SSB2, the network device configures SSB1 via signaling as follows:

[0510] SSB1 is associated with PRACH resource 1_1, PRACH resource 1_2, PRACH resource 1_3, PRACH resource 1_4, PRACH resource 1_5, and PRACH resource 1_6;

[0511] The second set of PRACH resources associated with SSB1 includes PRACH resource 1_1, PRACH resource 1_2 and PRACH resource 1_3;

[0512] The third PRACH resource set associated with SSB1 includes PRACH resource 1_4, PRACH resource 1_5 and PRACH resource 1_6;

[0513] PRACH resource 1_1 is used to indicate the activation of all PRACH resources in the third PRACH resource set;

[0514] PRACH resource 1_2 is used to indicate the deactivation of all PRACH resources in the third PRACH resource set;

[0515] PRACH resource 1_3 is used to indicate the activation of all PRACH resources in the third PRACH resource set.

[0516] The network device is configured for SSB2 via signaling as follows:

[0517] SSB2 is associated with PRACH resource 2_1, PRACH resource 2_2, PRACH resource 2_3, and PRACH resource 2_4;

[0518] The second set of PRACH resources associated with SSB2 includes PRACH resource 2_1 and PRACH resource 2_2;

[0519] The third PRACH resource set associated with SSB2 includes PRACH resource 2_3 and PRACH resource 2_4;

[0520] PRACH resource 2_1 is used to indicate the activation of all PRACH resources in the third PRACH resource set;

[0521] PRACH resource 2_2 is used to instruct the deactivation of all PRACH resources in the third PRACH resource set.

[0522] In some possible examples, the second configuration information is carried by signaling (such as RRC signaling, MAC signaling), system information (such as SIB or OSI), or DCI.

[0523] S1520. The terminal device uses the second PRACH resource associated with the second SSB to send a third random access request message.

[0524] Correspondingly, the network device uses the second PRACH resource associated with the second SSB to receive the third random access request message.

[0525] Wherein, the second SSB is one of the at least one actually transmitted SSBs and the signal strength of the second SSB is greater than the second preset threshold value, the second PRACH resource is one of the PRACH resources in the second PRACH resource set corresponding to the second SSB, and the second PRACH resource is used to indicate the activation or deactivation of the third PRACH resource set associated with the second SSB.

[0526] It should be noted that since the network device configures the at least one actually transmitted SSB information, the terminal device can detect the signal strength of each SSB in the at least one SSB. The signal strength of the SSB can be SSB RSRP, SSB RSSI, SSB SINR, or SSB RSRQ.

[0527] Then, the terminal device can determine a second SSB from the at least one SSB whose signal strength is greater than a second preset threshold value. The second preset threshold value can be specified by network configuration or a standard protocol.

[0528] Finally, the terminal device can select a PRACH resource from the second PRACH resource set corresponding to the second SSB, i.e., the second PRACH resource. The second PRACH resource can be any PRACH resource from the second PRACH resource set corresponding to the second SSB, without specific restrictions.

[0529] In this way, the terminal device can use the second PRACH resource to recommend to the network device whether to activate or deactivate the third PRACH resource set associated with the second SSB, so that the network device can refer to whether to activate or deactivate the third PRACH resource set associated with the second SSB.

[0530] S1530. The network device sends the first message.

[0531] Correspondingly, the terminal device receives the first information.

[0532] It should be noted that when the network device adopts the activation or deactivation of the third PRACH resource set associated with the second SSB recommended by the terminal device, the network device can activate or deactivate the third PRACH resource set associated with the second SSB through the first information indication. That is, the PRACH resource configuration parameters indicated by the first information include the activation or deactivation indication for the third PRACH resource set associated with the second SSB. When the network device does not adopt the activation or deactivation of the third PRACH resource set associated with the second SSB recommended by the terminal device, the network device can activate or deactivate other PRACH resources through the first information indication. That is, the PRACH resource configuration parameters indicated by the first information include the activation or deactivation indication for other PRACH resources.

[0533] The methods related to Figure 14 (e.g., the schemes described in steps 1410 to 1430) or the methods related to Figure 15 (e.g., the schemes described in steps 1510 to 1530) can be combined with the methods related to Figure 6, or they can exist independently. This application does not impose any restrictions.

[0534] The above mainly describes the solution of the embodiments of this application from the perspective of the method. The functional units of a communication device according to this embodiment are illustrated below. It is understood that, in order to achieve the above functions, the terminal device includes hardware structures and / or software modules corresponding to the execution of each function. Those skilled in the art should readily recognize that, in conjunction with the units and algorithm steps of the various examples described in the embodiments disclosed herein, this embodiment can be implemented in hardware or a combination of hardware and computer software. Whether a certain function is executed by hardware or by computer software driving hardware depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of this embodiment.

[0535] This application embodiment can divide the terminal device into functional units according to the above method example. For example, each function can be divided into a separate functional unit, or two or more functions can be integrated into one processing unit. The integrated unit can be implemented in hardware or as a software program module. It should be noted that the unit division in this application embodiment is illustrative and only represents a logical functional division, while other division methods may be used in actual implementation.

[0536] In the case of using integrated units, FIG16 is a functional unit block diagram of a communication device according to an embodiment of the present application. The communication device 1600 includes a receiving unit 1601 and a transmitting unit 1602.

[0537] Optionally, the receiving unit 1601 can be a module unit for receiving and processing signals, information, etc., and there are no specific limitations on this.

[0538] Optionally, the transmitting unit 1602 can be a module unit used for transmitting signals, information, etc., and there are no specific limitations on this.

[0539] Optionally, the communication device 1600 may further include a storage unit for storing computer program code or instructions executed by the communication device 1600. The storage unit may be a memory.

[0540] Optionally, the communication device 1600 may be a chip or a chip module.

[0541] Optionally, the receiving unit 1601 and the transmitting unit 1602 can be integrated into the communication unit. The communication unit can be a communication interface, transceiver, transceiver circuit, etc.

[0542] Optionally, the receiving unit 1601 and the transmitting unit 1602 can be integrated into the processing unit.

[0543] It should be noted that the processing unit can be a processor or controller, such as a baseband processor, baseband chip, central processing unit (CPU), general-purpose processor, digital signal processor (DSP), application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or other programmable logic device, transistor logic device, hardware component, or any combination thereof. It can implement or execute the various exemplary logic blocks, modules, and circuits described in conjunction with the disclosure of this embodiment. The processing unit can also be a combination that implements computing functions, such as including one or more microprocessor combinations, a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, etc.

[0544] Optionally, the communication device 1600 is used to perform any of the steps performed by the terminal device / chip / chip module, etc., as described in the above method embodiments.

[0545] In specific implementation, the receiving unit 1601 and the sending unit 1602 are used to perform any of the steps in the above method embodiments, and when performing actions such as sending, other units can be selectively invoked to complete the corresponding operation. A detailed description follows.

[0546] The receiving unit 1601 is used to receive first information, which is used to indicate PRACH resource configuration parameters;

[0547] The sending unit 1602 is used to send a first random access request message using valid PRACH resources, wherein the valid PRACH resources are determined based on PRACH resource configuration parameters;

[0548] PRACH resource configuration parameters include at least one of the following:

[0549] PRACH configuration cycle;

[0550] PRACH temporal resource configuration index;

[0551] PRACH configuration cycle scaling factor;

[0552] PRACH temporal resource scaling factor;

[0553] PRACH frequency domain resource scaling factor;

[0554] PRACH resource activation or deactivation instructions; or...

[0555] The mapping rate between the synchronization signal block SSB and the PRACH resource.

[0556] As can be seen, in this embodiment, PRACH resources can be configured using the PRACH resource configuration parameters indicated by the first information, so that network devices can use the configured PRACH resources to receive random access request messages.

[0557] If the PRACH resource configuration parameters include the PRACH configuration period, then the PRACH configuration period is configured through the first information. In this way, configuring the PRACH configuration period is one of the effective ways to adjust the original PRACH configuration period. For example, increasing the PRACH configuration period adjusts the PRACH resources, thereby reducing the energy consumption of network devices receiving random access request messages, improving the energy efficiency of network devices, and achieving the goal of energy saving for network devices.

[0558] If the PRACH resource configuration parameters include a PRACH time-domain resource configuration index, then the PRACH time-domain resources can be determined through the PRACH time-domain resource configuration index indicated by the first information, so as to configure the PRACH time-domain resources. In this way, configuring the PRACH time-domain resources is one of the effective ways to adjust the original PRACH time-domain resources, such as reducing the PRACH time-domain resources. This adjustment of the PRACH time-domain resource configuration reduces the energy consumption of network devices receiving random access request messages, improves the energy efficiency of network devices, and achieves the goal of energy saving for network devices.

[0559] If the PRACH resource configuration parameters include a PRACH configuration period scaling factor, then the PRACH configuration period is configured using the PRACH configuration period scaling factor indicated by the first information. In this way, configuring the PRACH configuration period is one of the effective ways to adjust the original PRACH configuration period. For example, increasing the PRACH configuration period adjusts the PRACH resources, thereby reducing the energy consumption of network devices receiving random access request messages, improving the energy efficiency of network devices, and achieving the goal of energy saving for network devices.

[0560] If the PRACH resource configuration parameters include a PRACH time-domain resource scaling factor, then the PRACH time-domain resources are configured using the PRACH time-domain resource scaling factor indicated by the first information. In this way, configuring PRACH time-domain resources is one of the effective ways to adjust the original PRACH time-domain resources, such as reducing PRACH time-domain resources. This adjustment of PRACH time-domain resources reduces the energy consumption of network devices receiving random access request messages, improves the energy efficiency of network devices, and achieves the goal of energy saving for network devices.

[0561] If the PRACH resource configuration parameters include a PRACH frequency domain resource scaling factor, then the PRACH frequency domain resources are configured using the scaling factor indicated by the first information. In this way, configuring PRACH frequency domain resources is one effective way to adjust the original PRACH frequency domain resources, such as reducing PRACH frequency domain resources. This adjustment of PRACH time domain resources reduces the energy consumption of network devices receiving random access request messages, improves the energy efficiency of network devices, and achieves the goal of energy saving for network devices.

[0562] If the PRACH resource configuration parameters include a PRACH resource activation or deactivation indication, then the original PRACH resource is activated or deactivated using the first information. Activation or deactivation of PRACH resources can be an effective way to adjust the original PRACH resources. For example, the first information can be used to deactivate the activated original PRACH resources to reduce the number of activated PRACH resources, thereby adjusting the PRACH resources. This adjustment of PRACH resources can reduce the energy consumption of network devices in receiving random access request messages, improve the energy efficiency of network devices, and achieve the goal of energy saving for network devices.

[0563] If the PRACH resource configuration parameters include the mapping rate between the SSB and the PRACH resource, then the mapping rate is configured through the first information. In this way, configuring the mapping rate serves as an effective way to adjust the original mapping rate. Adjusting the mapping rate can adjust the PRACH resource, thereby reducing the energy consumption of network devices receiving random access request messages, improving the energy efficiency of network devices, and achieving the goal of energy saving for network devices.

[0564] It should be noted that the specific implementation of each operation in the embodiment shown in Figure 16 can be found in the description of the method embodiment shown above, and will not be repeated here.

[0565] In some possible examples, the temporal resource index i of the valid RO corresponding to the valid PRACH resource satisfies the following formula:

[0566] i mod(1 / K1) = 0, or i mod(1 / (K0*K1)) = 0; or,

[0567] i mod(K1)=0, or i mod(K0*K1)=0;

[0568] Where mod represents modulo, K0 represents the first value of the PRACH time-domain resource scaling factor, K1 represents the second value of the PRACH time-domain resource scaling factor, the second value refers to the value indicated by the first information, and the first value refers to the value before the first information indicates the second value.

[0569] In some possible examples, the temporal resource index of the valid RO corresponding to the valid PRACH resource is renumbered from the position where the first information takes effect.

[0570] In some possible examples, if the first information is carried by the paging DCI and the value of the short message indication information in the paging DCI is a first preset value, then the paging DCI only includes the first information and the short message indication information; or,

[0571] If the first information is carried by the paging DCI, and the short message indication field in the paging DCI takes the value of the second preset value, then the paging DCI only includes the first information, the short message indication information, and the paging dispatch information; or,

[0572] If the first information is carried by the paging DCI and the short message indication field in the paging DCI is set to a third preset value, then the paging DCI only includes the first information, the short message indication information, and the short message.

[0573] In some possible examples, if the first information is carried by the PEI, then the first information is the common bit in the PEI.

[0574] In some possible examples, if the first message is carried by the paging DCI, the position where the first message begins to take effect is:

[0575] The end or start position of the paging cycle in which the paging opportunity corresponding to the paging DCI occurs; or,

[0576] The paging timing corresponding to DCI is located at the position where the end or start position of the paging timing is delayed by X time units, and X is a positive integer; or,

[0577] The end position of the paging timing corresponding to the paging DCI.

[0578] In some possible examples, if the first information is carried by PEI, then the position where the first information begins to take effect is:

[0579] The end or start position of the paging cycle in which the PEI monitoring timing occurs; or,

[0580] The position of the PEI monitoring timing's end or start position delayed by Y time units, where Y is a positive integer; or,

[0581] The end position of the PEI listening time corresponding to PEI.

[0582] In some possible examples, if the first message is carried by the scheduling DCI or MAC CE, the position where the first message begins to take effect is:

[0583] The end position of the time-domain resources corresponding to the DCI or MAC CE; or,

[0584] The end position of the time-domain resource corresponding to the DCI is delayed by Z time units, where Z is a positive integer; or,

[0585] The end position of the time-domain resource corresponding to MAC CE is delayed by W time units, where W is a positive integer; or,

[0586] The time-domain location of the first RO following the time-domain resource corresponding to MAC CE.

[0587] In some possible examples, if the first message is carried by the SIB, the position where the first message begins to take effect is:

[0588] The end of the system information window where SIB is located.

[0589] In some possible examples, the receiving unit 1601 is also used for:

[0590] Receive the second information, which is used to configure the validity period of the first information.

[0591] In some possible examples, the starting position of the validity period of the first message is the position where the first message begins to take effect.

[0592] In some possible examples, the receiving unit 1601 is also used for:

[0593] Receive first configuration information, which is used to configure the mapping rate set corresponding to each SSB in at least one actually transmitted SSB and the first PRACH resource set associated with each SSB. The mapping rate refers to the mapping rate between the SSB and the PRACH resource.

[0594] In some possible examples, the first set of PRACH resources associated with an SSB is the first N PRACH resources among the PRACH resources associated with that SSB, where N is a positive integer, and the SSB represents any one of at least one SSB that is actually being sent.

[0595] In some possible examples, the transmitting unit 1602 is also used for:

[0596] Send a second random access request message using the first PRACH resource;

[0597] Wherein, the first PRACH resource is a PRACH resource corresponding to the first mapping rate in the first PRACH resource set associated with the first SSB, the first SSB is an SSB in at least one actually transmitted SSB and the signal strength of the first SSB is greater than the first preset threshold value, and the first mapping rate is a mapping rate in the mapping rate set corresponding to the first SSB.

[0598] In some possible examples, the PRACH resource configuration parameters include a first mapping rate.

[0599] In some possible examples, the receiving unit 1601 is also used for:

[0600] Receive second configuration information, which is used to configure a second PRACH resource set associated with each SSB in at least one actually transmitted SSB and a third PRACH resource set associated with each SSB. Each PRACH resource in the second PRACH resource set associated with an SSB is used to indicate activation or deactivation of the third PRACH resource set associated with that SSB. The SSB represents any one of the at least one actually transmitted SSBs.

[0601] In some possible examples, a portion of the PRACH resources in the second PRACH resource set associated with the SSB are used to indicate activation of the third PRACH resource set associated with the SSB, and the remaining PRACH resources are used to indicate deactivation of the third PRACH resource set associated with the SSB.

[0602] In some possible examples, the transmitting unit 1602 is also used for:

[0603] Send a third random access request message using the second PRACH resource associated with the second SSB;

[0604] Wherein, the second SSB is one of at least one actually transmitted SSB and the signal strength of the second SSB is greater than the second preset threshold value, the second PRACH resource is one of the PRACH resources in the second PRACH resource set corresponding to the second SSB, and the second PRACH resource is used to indicate the activation or deactivation of the third PRACH resource set associated with the second SSB.

[0605] The above mainly describes the solutions of the embodiments of this application from the perspective of the method. The following is an example illustration of the functional units of another communication device according to this embodiment. It is understood that, in order to achieve the above functions, the network device includes hardware structures and / or software modules corresponding to the execution of each function. Those skilled in the art should readily recognize that, in conjunction with the units and algorithm steps of the various examples described in the embodiments disclosed herein, this embodiment can be implemented in hardware or a combination of hardware and computer software. Whether a certain function is executed in a hardware or computer software-driven hardware manner depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of this embodiment.

[0606] This application embodiment can divide the network device into functional units according to the above method example. For example, each function can be divided into different functional units, or two or more functions can be integrated into one processing unit. The integrated unit can be implemented in hardware or as a software program module. It should be noted that the unit division in this application embodiment is illustrative and only represents a logical functional division, while other division methods may be used in actual implementation.

[0607] In the case of using integrated units, FIG17 is a functional unit block diagram of another communication device according to an embodiment of the present application. The communication device 1700 includes a transmitting unit 1701 and a receiving unit 1702.

[0608] Optionally, the transmitting unit 1701 can be a module unit used for transmitting signals, information, etc., and there are no specific limitations on this.

[0609] Optionally, the receiving unit 1702 can be a module unit for receiving and processing signals, information, etc., without specific limitations.

[0610] Optionally, the communication device 1700 may further include a storage unit for storing computer program code or instructions executed by the communication device 1700. The storage unit may be a memory.

[0611] Optionally, the communication device 1700 may be a chip or a chip module.

[0612] Optionally, the transmitting unit 1701 and the receiving unit 1702 can be integrated into the communication unit. The communication unit can be a communication interface, transceiver, transceiver circuit, etc.

[0613] Optionally, the communication device 1700 may also include a processing unit.

[0614] It should be noted that the processing unit can be a processor or controller, such as a baseband processor, baseband chip, central processing unit (CPU), general-purpose processor, digital signal processor (DSP), application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or other programmable logic device, transistor logic device, hardware component, or any combination thereof. It can implement or execute the various exemplary logic blocks, modules, and circuits described in conjunction with the disclosure of this embodiment. The processing unit can also be a combination that implements computing functions, such as including one or more microprocessor combinations, a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, etc.

[0615] Optionally, the communication device 1700 is used to perform any of the steps performed by the chip / chip module / network device, etc., as described in the above method embodiments.

[0616] In specific implementation, the sending unit 1701 and the receiving unit 1702 are used to perform any of the steps in the above method embodiments, and when performing actions such as sending, other units can be selectively invoked to complete the corresponding operations. A detailed description follows.

[0617] The sending unit 1701 is used to send first information, which is used to indicate PRACH resource configuration parameters;

[0618] The receiving unit 1702 is used to receive a first random access request message using valid PRACH resources, wherein the valid PRACH resources are determined based on PRACH resource configuration parameters;

[0619] PRACH resource configuration parameters include at least one of the following:

[0620] PRACH configuration cycle;

[0621] PRACH temporal resource configuration index;

[0622] PRACH configuration cycle scaling factor;

[0623] PRACH temporal resource scaling factor;

[0624] PRACH frequency domain resource scaling factor;

[0625] PRACH resource activation or deactivation instructions; or...

[0626] Mapping rate between SSB and PRACH resources.

[0627] As can be seen, in this embodiment, PRACH resources can be configured using the PRACH resource configuration parameters indicated by the first information, so that network devices can use the configured PRACH resources to receive random access request messages.

[0628] If the PRACH resource configuration parameters include the PRACH configuration period, then the PRACH configuration period is configured through the first information. In this way, configuring the PRACH configuration period is one of the effective ways to adjust the original PRACH configuration period. For example, increasing the PRACH configuration period adjusts the PRACH resources, thereby reducing the energy consumption of network devices receiving random access request messages, improving the energy efficiency of network devices, and achieving the goal of energy saving for network devices.

[0629] If the PRACH resource configuration parameters include a PRACH time-domain resource configuration index, then the PRACH time-domain resources can be determined through the PRACH time-domain resource configuration index indicated by the first information, so as to configure the PRACH time-domain resources. In this way, configuring the PRACH time-domain resources is one of the effective ways to adjust the original PRACH time-domain resources, such as reducing the PRACH time-domain resources. This adjustment of the PRACH time-domain resource configuration reduces the energy consumption of network devices receiving random access request messages, improves the energy efficiency of network devices, and achieves the goal of energy saving for network devices.

[0630] If the PRACH resource configuration parameters include a PRACH configuration period scaling factor, then the PRACH configuration period is configured using the PRACH configuration period scaling factor indicated by the first information. In this way, configuring the PRACH configuration period is one of the effective ways to adjust the original PRACH configuration period. For example, increasing the PRACH configuration period adjusts the PRACH resources, thereby reducing the energy consumption of network devices receiving random access request messages, improving the energy efficiency of network devices, and achieving the goal of energy saving for network devices.

[0631] If the PRACH resource configuration parameters include a PRACH time-domain resource scaling factor, then the PRACH time-domain resources are configured using the PRACH time-domain resource scaling factor indicated by the first information. In this way, configuring PRACH time-domain resources is one of the effective ways to adjust the original PRACH time-domain resources, such as reducing PRACH time-domain resources. This adjustment of PRACH time-domain resources reduces the energy consumption of network devices receiving random access request messages, improves the energy efficiency of network devices, and achieves the goal of energy saving for network devices.

[0632] If the PRACH resource configuration parameters include a PRACH frequency domain resource scaling factor, then the PRACH frequency domain resources are configured using the scaling factor indicated by the first information. In this way, configuring PRACH frequency domain resources is one effective way to adjust the original PRACH frequency domain resources, such as reducing PRACH frequency domain resources. This adjustment of PRACH time domain resources reduces the energy consumption of network devices receiving random access request messages, improves the energy efficiency of network devices, and achieves the goal of energy saving for network devices.

[0633] If the PRACH resource configuration parameters include a PRACH resource activation or deactivation indication, then the original PRACH resource is activated or deactivated using the first information. Activation or deactivation of PRACH resources can be an effective way to adjust the original PRACH resources. For example, the first information can be used to deactivate the activated original PRACH resources to reduce the number of activated PRACH resources, thereby adjusting the PRACH resources. This adjustment of PRACH resources can reduce the energy consumption of network devices in receiving random access request messages, improve the energy efficiency of network devices, and achieve the goal of energy saving for network devices.

[0634] If the PRACH resource configuration parameters include the mapping rate between the SSB and the PRACH resource, then the mapping rate is configured through the first information. In this way, configuring the mapping rate serves as an effective way to adjust the original mapping rate. Adjusting the mapping rate can adjust the PRACH resource, thereby reducing the energy consumption of network devices receiving random access request messages, improving the energy efficiency of network devices, and achieving the goal of energy saving for network devices.

[0635] It should be noted that the specific implementation of each operation in the embodiment shown in Figure 17 can be found in the description of the method embodiment shown above, and will not be repeated here.

[0636] In some possible examples, if the first information is carried by the paging downlink control information (DCI) and the value of the short message indication information in the paging DCI is a first preset value, then the paging DCI only includes the first information and the short message indication information; or,

[0637] If the first information is carried by the paging DCI, and the short message indication field in the paging DCI takes the value of the second preset value, then the paging DCI only includes the first information, the short message indication information, and the paging dispatch information; or,

[0638] If the first information is carried by the paging DCI, and the short message indication field in the paging DCI takes the value of a third preset value, then the paging DCI only includes the first information, the short message indication information, and the short message; or,

[0639] If the first information is carried by the paging advance indication information (PEI), then the first information is the common bit in the PEI.

[0640] In some possible examples, if the first information is carried by the paging DCI, the position where the first information begins to take effect is: the end or start position of the paging cycle in which the paging timing corresponding to the paging DCI is located, or the position where the end or start position of the paging timing corresponding to the paging DCI is delayed by X time units, where X is a positive integer, or the end position of the paging timing corresponding to the paging DCI; or,

[0641] If the first information is carried by the PEI, then the position where the first information begins to take effect is: the end or start position of the paging cycle in which the PEI corresponding to the PEI listening time is located, or the position where the end or start position of the PEI corresponding to the PEI is delayed by Y time units, where Y is a positive integer, or the end position of the PEI corresponding to the PEI listening time; or,

[0642] If the first information is carried by the scheduling DCI or the media access control element MAC CE, then the position where the first information begins to take effect is: the end position of the time-domain resource corresponding to the scheduling DCI or MAC CE, or the position where the end position of the time-domain resource corresponding to the scheduling DCI is delayed by Z time units, where Z is a positive integer, or the position where the end position of the time-domain resource corresponding to the MAC CE is delayed by W time units, where W is a positive integer, or the time-domain position of the first RO after the time-domain resource corresponding to the MAC CE; or,

[0643] If the first information is carried by the System Information Block (SIB), then the position where the first information begins to take effect is: the end position of the System Information (SI) window where the SIB is located.

[0644] In some possible examples, the transmitting unit 1701 is also used for:

[0645] Send first configuration information, which is used to configure the mapping rate set corresponding to each SSB in at least one actually sent SSB and the first PRACH resource set associated with each SSB. The mapping rate refers to the mapping rate between the SSB and the PRACH resource.

[0646] In some possible examples, the first set of PRACH resources associated with an SSB is the first N PRACH resources among the PRACH resources associated with that SSB, where N is a positive integer, and the SSB represents any one of at least one SSB that is actually being sent.

[0647] In some possible examples, the receiving unit 1702 is also used for:

[0648] Utilize the first PRACH resource to receive the second random access request message;

[0649] Wherein, the first PRACH resource is a PRACH resource corresponding to the first mapping rate in the first PRACH resource set associated with the first SSB, the first SSB is an SSB in at least one actually transmitted SSB and the signal strength of the first SSB is greater than the first preset threshold value, and the first mapping rate is a mapping rate in the mapping rate set corresponding to the first SSB.

[0650] In some possible examples, the PRACH resource configuration parameters include a first mapping rate.

[0651] In some possible examples, the transmitting unit 1701 is also used for:

[0652] Send second configuration information, which is used to configure a second PRACH resource set associated with each SSB in at least one actually sent SSB and a third PRACH resource set associated with each SSB. Each PRACH resource in the second PRACH resource set associated with each SSB is used to indicate activation or deactivation of the third PRACH resource set associated with each SSB.

[0653] In some possible examples, a portion of the PRACH resources in the second PRACH resource set associated with the SSB are used to indicate activation of the third PRACH resource set associated with the SSB, and the remaining PRACH resources are used to indicate deactivation of the third PRACH resource set associated with the SSB.

[0654] In some possible examples, the receiving unit 1702 is also used for:

[0655] Receive a third random access request message using the second PRACH resource associated with the second SSB;

[0656] Wherein, the second SSB is one of at least one SSB that is actually transmitted and the signal strength of the second SSB is greater than the second preset threshold value, the second PRACH resource is one of the PRACH resources in the second PRACH resource set corresponding to the second SSB, and the second PRACH resource is used to indicate the activation or deactivation of the third PRACH resource set associated with the second SSB.

[0657] The structure of a terminal device in this embodiment is illustrated below.

[0658] Please refer to Figure 18, which is a schematic diagram of the structure of a terminal device according to an embodiment of this application. The terminal device 1800 may include a processor 1810, a memory 1820, and a communication bus for connecting the processor 1810 and the memory 1820.

[0659] Optionally, the memory 1820 may include, but is not limited to, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), or compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM). The memory 1820 is used to store program code executed by the terminal device 1800 and data transmitted.

[0660] Optionally, the terminal device 1800 also includes a communication interface for receiving and sending data.

[0661] Optionally, the terminal device 1800 can be the first terminal device mentioned above.

[0662] Optionally, the processor 1810 can be one or more CPUs. If the processor 1810 is a CPU, the CPU can be a single-core CPU or a multi-core CPU.

[0663] Optionally, the processor 1810 can be a baseband chip, a chip, a CPU, a general-purpose processor, a DSP, an ASIC, an FPGA, or other programmable logic devices, transistor logic devices, hardware components, or any combination thereof.

[0664] In specific implementation, the processor 1810 in the terminal device 1800 executes the computer program or instructions 1821 stored in the memory 1820 to perform the following operations:

[0665] Receive the first message, which is used to indicate the PRACH resource configuration parameters;

[0666] The first random access request message is sent using valid PRACH resources, which are determined based on PRACH resource configuration parameters;

[0667] PRACH resource configuration parameters include at least one of the following:

[0668] PRACH configuration cycle;

[0669] PRACH temporal resource configuration index;

[0670] PRACH configuration cycle scaling factor;

[0671] PRACH temporal resource scaling factor;

[0672] PRACH frequency domain resource scaling factor;

[0673] PRACH resource activation or deactivation instructions; or...

[0674] Mapping rate between SSB and PRACH resources.

[0675] As can be seen, in this embodiment, PRACH resources can be configured using the PRACH resource configuration parameters indicated by the first information, so that network devices can use the configured PRACH resources to receive random access request messages.

[0676] If the PRACH resource configuration parameters include the PRACH configuration period, then the PRACH configuration period is configured through the first information. In this way, configuring the PRACH configuration period is one of the effective ways to adjust the original PRACH configuration period. For example, increasing the PRACH configuration period adjusts the PRACH resources, thereby reducing the energy consumption of network devices receiving random access request messages, improving the energy efficiency of network devices, and achieving the goal of energy saving for network devices.

[0677] If the PRACH resource configuration parameters include a PRACH time-domain resource configuration index, then the PRACH time-domain resources can be determined through the PRACH time-domain resource configuration index indicated by the first information, so as to configure the PRACH time-domain resources. In this way, configuring the PRACH time-domain resources is one of the effective ways to adjust the original PRACH time-domain resources, such as reducing the PRACH time-domain resources. This adjustment of the PRACH time-domain resource configuration reduces the energy consumption of network devices receiving random access request messages, improves the energy efficiency of network devices, and achieves the goal of energy saving for network devices.

[0678] If the PRACH resource configuration parameters include a PRACH configuration period scaling factor, then the PRACH configuration period is configured using the PRACH configuration period scaling factor indicated by the first information. In this way, configuring the PRACH configuration period is one of the effective ways to adjust the original PRACH configuration period. For example, increasing the PRACH configuration period adjusts the PRACH resources, thereby reducing the energy consumption of network devices receiving random access request messages, improving the energy efficiency of network devices, and achieving the goal of energy saving for network devices.

[0679] If the PRACH resource configuration parameters include a PRACH time-domain resource scaling factor, then the PRACH time-domain resources are configured using the PRACH time-domain resource scaling factor indicated by the first information. In this way, configuring PRACH time-domain resources is one of the effective ways to adjust the original PRACH time-domain resources, such as reducing PRACH time-domain resources. This adjustment of PRACH time-domain resources reduces the energy consumption of network devices receiving random access request messages, improves the energy efficiency of network devices, and achieves the goal of energy saving for network devices.

[0680] If the PRACH resource configuration parameters include a PRACH frequency domain resource scaling factor, then the PRACH frequency domain resources are configured using the scaling factor indicated by the first information. In this way, configuring PRACH frequency domain resources is one effective way to adjust the original PRACH frequency domain resources, such as reducing PRACH frequency domain resources. This adjustment of PRACH time domain resources reduces the energy consumption of network devices receiving random access request messages, improves the energy efficiency of network devices, and achieves the goal of energy saving for network devices.

[0681] If the PRACH resource configuration parameters include a PRACH resource activation or deactivation indication, then the original PRACH resource is activated or deactivated using the first information. Activation or deactivation of PRACH resources can be an effective way to adjust the original PRACH resources. For example, the first information can be used to deactivate the activated original PRACH resources to reduce the number of activated PRACH resources, thereby adjusting the PRACH resources. This adjustment of PRACH resources can reduce the energy consumption of network devices in receiving random access request messages, improve the energy efficiency of network devices, and achieve the goal of energy saving for network devices.

[0682] If the PRACH resource configuration parameters include the mapping rate between the SSB and the PRACH resource, then the mapping rate is configured through the first information. In this way, configuring the mapping rate serves as an effective way to adjust the original mapping rate. Adjusting the mapping rate can adjust the PRACH resource, thereby reducing the energy consumption of network devices receiving random access request messages, improving the energy efficiency of network devices, and achieving the goal of energy saving for network devices.

[0683] It should be noted that the specific implementation of each operation can adopt the corresponding description of the method embodiment shown above. The terminal device 1800 can be used to execute the method embodiment described above in this embodiment, and will not be described again here.

[0684] The structure of a network device according to this embodiment is illustrated below.

[0685] Please refer to Figure 19, which is a schematic diagram of the structure of a network device according to an embodiment of this application. The network device 1900 includes a processor 1910, a memory 1920, and a communication bus for connecting the processor 1910 and the memory 1920.

[0686] Optionally, the memory 1920 may include, but is not limited to, RAM, ROM, EPROM or CD-ROM, and the memory 1920 may be used to store related instructions and data.

[0687] Optionally, the network device 1900 also includes a communication interface for receiving and sending data.

[0688] Optionally, the processor 1910 can be one or more CPUs. If the processor 1910 is a CPU, the CPU can be a single-core CPU or a multi-core CPU.

[0689] Optionally, the processor 1910 can be a baseband chip, chip, CPU, general-purpose processor, DSP, ASIC, FPGA or other programmable logic device, transistor logic device, hardware component or any combination thereof.

[0690] Optionally, the processor 1910 in the network device 1900 is used to execute the computer program or instructions 1921 stored in the memory 1920 to perform the following operations:

[0691] Send the first message, which is used to indicate the PRACH resource configuration parameters;

[0692] The first random access request message is received using valid PRACH resources, which are determined based on PRACH resource configuration parameters.

[0693] PRACH resource configuration parameters include at least one of the following:

[0694] PRACH configuration cycle;

[0695] PRACH temporal resource configuration index;

[0696] PRACH configuration cycle scaling factor;

[0697] PRACH temporal resource scaling factor;

[0698] PRACH frequency domain resource scaling factor;

[0699] PRACH resource activation or deactivation instructions; or...

[0700] Mapping rate between SSB and PRACH resources.

[0701] As can be seen, in this embodiment, PRACH resources can be configured using the PRACH resource configuration parameters indicated by the first information, so that network devices can use the configured PRACH resources to receive random access request messages.

[0702] If the PRACH resource configuration parameters include the PRACH configuration period, then the PRACH configuration period is configured through the first information. In this way, configuring the PRACH configuration period is one of the effective ways to adjust the original PRACH configuration period. For example, increasing the PRACH configuration period adjusts the PRACH resources, thereby reducing the energy consumption of network devices receiving random access request messages, improving the energy efficiency of network devices, and achieving the goal of energy saving for network devices.

[0703] If the PRACH resource configuration parameters include a PRACH time-domain resource configuration index, then the PRACH time-domain resources can be determined through the PRACH time-domain resource configuration index indicated by the first information, so as to configure the PRACH time-domain resources. In this way, configuring the PRACH time-domain resources is one of the effective ways to adjust the original PRACH time-domain resources, such as reducing the PRACH time-domain resources. This adjustment of the PRACH time-domain resource configuration reduces the energy consumption of network devices receiving random access request messages, improves the energy efficiency of network devices, and achieves the goal of energy saving for network devices.

[0704] If the PRACH resource configuration parameters include a PRACH configuration period scaling factor, then the PRACH configuration period is configured using the PRACH configuration period scaling factor indicated by the first information. In this way, configuring the PRACH configuration period is one of the effective ways to adjust the original PRACH configuration period. For example, increasing the PRACH configuration period adjusts the PRACH resources, thereby reducing the energy consumption of network devices receiving random access request messages, improving the energy efficiency of network devices, and achieving the goal of energy saving for network devices.

[0705] If the PRACH resource configuration parameters include a PRACH time-domain resource scaling factor, then the PRACH time-domain resources are configured using the PRACH time-domain resource scaling factor indicated by the first information. In this way, configuring PRACH time-domain resources is one of the effective ways to adjust the original PRACH time-domain resources, such as reducing PRACH time-domain resources. This adjustment of PRACH time-domain resources reduces the energy consumption of network devices receiving random access request messages, improves the energy efficiency of network devices, and achieves the goal of energy saving for network devices.

[0706] If the PRACH resource configuration parameters include a PRACH frequency domain resource scaling factor, then the PRACH frequency domain resources are configured using the scaling factor indicated by the first information. In this way, configuring PRACH frequency domain resources is one effective way to adjust the original PRACH frequency domain resources, such as reducing PRACH frequency domain resources. This adjustment of PRACH time domain resources reduces the energy consumption of network devices receiving random access request messages, improves the energy efficiency of network devices, and achieves the goal of energy saving for network devices.

[0707] If the PRACH resource configuration parameters include a PRACH resource activation or deactivation indication, then the original PRACH resource is activated or deactivated using the first information. Activation or deactivation of PRACH resources can be an effective way to adjust the original PRACH resources. For example, the first information can be used to deactivate the activated original PRACH resources to reduce the number of activated PRACH resources, thereby adjusting the PRACH resources. This adjustment of PRACH resources can reduce the energy consumption of network devices in receiving random access request messages, improve the energy efficiency of network devices, and achieve the goal of energy saving for network devices.

[0708] If the PRACH resource configuration parameters include the mapping rate between the SSB and the PRACH resource, then the mapping rate is configured through the first information. In this way, configuring the mapping rate serves as an effective way to adjust the original mapping rate. Adjusting the mapping rate can adjust the PRACH resource, thereby reducing the energy consumption of network devices receiving random access request messages, improving the energy efficiency of network devices, and achieving the goal of energy saving for network devices.

[0709] It should be noted that the specific implementation of each operation can adopt the corresponding description of the method embodiment shown above. The network device 1900 can be used to execute the method embodiment described above in this embodiment, and will not be described again here.

[0710] The following provides examples illustrating other relevant aspects of this embodiment.

[0711] Optionally, the above method embodiments can be applied to terminal devices or applied within terminal devices. That is, the executing entity of the above method embodiments can be a terminal device, a chip, a chip module, or a module, etc., without specific limitations.

[0712] Optionally, the above method embodiments can be applied to network devices or incorporated into network devices. That is, the executing entity of the above method embodiments can be a network device, a chip, a chip module, or a module, etc., without specific limitations.

[0713] This application also provides a chip, including a processor, a memory, and a computer program or instructions stored in the memory, wherein the processor executes the computer program or instructions to implement the steps described in the above method embodiments.

[0714] This application also provides a chip module, including a transceiver component and a chip. The chip includes a processor, a memory, and a computer program or instructions stored in the memory, wherein the processor executes the computer program or instructions to implement the steps described in the above method embodiments.

[0715] This application also provides a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program or instructions that, when executed, implement the steps described in the above method embodiments.

[0716] This application also provides a computer program product, including a computer program or instructions that, when executed, implement the steps described in the above method embodiments.

[0717] This application also provides a communication system, including the terminal device and the network device described above.

[0718] It should be noted that, for the sake of simplicity, the above embodiments are all described as a series of actions. Those skilled in the art should understand that this application is not limited to the described order of actions, as some steps in the embodiments of this application can be performed in other orders or simultaneously. Furthermore, those skilled in the art should also understand that the embodiments described in the specification are preferred embodiments, and the actions, steps, modules, or units involved are not necessarily essential to the embodiments of this application.

[0719] In the above embodiments, the descriptions of each embodiment in this application have different focuses. For parts not described in detail in a certain embodiment, please refer to the relevant descriptions in other embodiments.

[0720] The steps of the methods or algorithms described in the embodiments of this application can be implemented in hardware or by a processor executing software instructions. The software instructions can consist of corresponding software modules, which can be stored in RAM, flash memory, ROM, EPROM, electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), registers, hard disk, portable hard disk, read-only optical disk (CD-ROM), or any other form of storage medium well known in the art. An exemplary storage medium is coupled to a processor, enabling the processor to read information from and write information to the storage medium. Of course, the storage medium can also be a component of the processor. The processor and storage medium can reside in an ASIC. Furthermore, the ASIC can reside in a terminal device or management device. Alternatively, the processor and storage medium can exist as discrete components in the terminal device or management device.

[0721] Those skilled in the art will recognize that, in one or more of the examples above, the functions described in the embodiments of this application can be implemented, in whole or in part, by software, hardware, firmware, or any combination thereof. When implemented in software, it can be implemented, in whole or in part, in the form of a computer program product. This computer program product includes one or more computer instructions. When these computer program instructions are loaded and executed on a computer, all or part of the processes or functions described in the embodiments of this application are generated. The computer can be a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, a computer network, or other programmable device. The computer instructions can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium or transmitted from one computer-readable storage medium to another. For example, the computer instructions can be transmitted from one website, computer, server, or data center to another via wired (e.g., coaxial cable, fiber optic, digital subscriber line (DSL)) or wireless (e.g., infrared, wireless, microwave, etc.) means. The computer-readable storage medium can be any available medium accessible to a computer or a data storage device such as a server or data center that integrates one or more available media. The available media can be magnetic media (e.g., floppy disks, hard disks, magnetic tapes), optical media (e.g., digital video discs (DVDs)), or semiconductor media (e.g., solid-state disks (SSDs)).

[0722] The modules / units included in the various devices and products described in the above embodiments can be software modules / units, hardware modules / units, or a combination of both. For example, for devices and products applied to or integrated into a chip, all modules / units can be implemented using hardware methods such as circuits, or at least some modules / units can be implemented using software programs that run on a processor integrated within the chip, while the remaining (if any) modules / units can be implemented using hardware methods such as circuits. For devices and products applied to or integrated into a chip module, all modules / units can be implemented using hardware methods such as circuits. Different modules / units can be located in the same component (e.g., chip, circuit module, etc.) or different components of the chip module, or at least some modules / units can be implemented using hardware methods such as circuits. The implementation is achieved through a software program that runs on a processor integrated within the chip module. The remaining modules / units (if any) can be implemented using hardware methods such as circuits. For various devices and products applied to or integrated into terminal equipment, each of their modules / units can be implemented using hardware methods such as circuits. Different modules / units can be located in the same component (e.g., chip, circuit module, etc.) or different components within the terminal equipment. Alternatively, at least some modules / units can be implemented using a software program that runs on a processor integrated within the terminal equipment, while the remaining modules / units (if any) can be implemented using hardware methods such as circuits.

[0723] The specific embodiments described above further illustrate the purpose, technical solution, and beneficial effects of the embodiments of this application. It should be understood that the above descriptions are merely specific embodiments of the embodiments of this application and are not intended to limit the protection scope of the embodiments of this application. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made on the basis of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application should be included within the protection scope of the embodiments of this application.

Claims

1. A communication method, characterized in that, include: Receive first information, which is used to indicate the physical random access channel (PRACH) resource configuration parameters; A first random access request message is sent using valid PRACH resources, wherein the valid PRACH resources are determined based on the PRACH resource configuration parameters; The PRACH resource configuration parameters include at least one of the following: PRACH configuration cycle; PRACH temporal resource configuration index; PRACH configuration cycle scaling factor; PRACH temporal resource scaling factor; PRACH frequency domain resource scaling factor; PRACH resource activation or deactivation instructions; or... The mapping rate between the synchronization signal block SSB and the PRACH resource.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The temporal resource index i of the valid RO corresponding to the valid PRACH resource satisfies the following formula: i mod(1 / K1)=0, or i mod(1 / (K0*K1))=0; or, i mod(K1)=0, or i mod(K0*K1)=0; Where mod represents modulo, K0 represents the first value of the PRACH time-domain resource scaling factor, K1 represents the second value of the PRACH time-domain resource scaling factor, the second value refers to the value indicated by the first information, and the first value refers to the value before the first information indicates the second value.

3. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that, The temporal resource index of the valid RO corresponding to the valid PRACH resource is renumbered from the position where the first information takes effect.

4. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, If the first information is carried by paging downlink control information (DCI) and the value of the short message indication information in the paging DCI is a first preset value, then the paging DCI only includes the first information and the short message indication information. or, If the first information is carried by the paging DCI, and the short message indication field in the paging DCI takes the value of a second preset value, then the paging DCI only includes the first information, the short message indication information, and the paging scheduling information; or, If the first information is carried by the paging DCI and the short message indication field in the paging DCI is set to a third preset value, then the paging DCI includes only the first information, the short message indication information, and the short message.

5. The method according to claim 1, wherein If the first information is carried by the Paging Advance Indication Information (PEI), then the first information is the common bit in the PEI.

6. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, If the first information is carried by the paging DCI, then the position where the first information begins to take effect is: The paging timing corresponding to the paging DCI is located at the end or beginning position of the paging cycle; or... The paging timing corresponding to the paging DCI is located at the position where the end or start position of the paging timing is delayed by X time units, and X is a positive integer; or... The end position of the paging timing corresponding to the paging DCI.

7. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, If the first information is carried by PEI, then the position where the first information begins to take effect is: The end or start position of the paging cycle in which the PEI monitoring timing corresponds; or... The position of the PEI monitoring timing, which is delayed by Y time units from the end or start position, and where Y is a positive integer; or... The end position of the PEI listening time corresponding to the PEI.

8. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that If the first information is carried by the scheduling DCI or the media access control element MAC CE, then the position where the first information begins to take effect is: The end position of the time-domain resource corresponding to the scheduling DCI or the MAC CE; or, The end position of the time-domain resource corresponding to the DCI scheduling is delayed by Z time units, where Z is a positive integer; or... The end position of the time-domain resource corresponding to the MAC CE is delayed by W time units, where W is a positive integer; or, The time domain location of the first RO following the time domain resource corresponding to the MAC CE.

9. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, If the first information is carried by the System Information Block (SIB), then the position where the first information begins to take effect is: The SIB is located at the end of the System Information (SI) window.

10. The method according to any one of claims 1-9, characterized in that, After receiving the first information, the method further includes: Receive second information, which is used to configure the validity period of the first information.

11. The method according to claim 9, characterized in that, The starting position of the validity period of the first information is the position where the first information begins to take effect.

12. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The method further includes: Receive first configuration information, which is used to configure a mapping rate set corresponding to each SSB in at least one actually transmitted SSB and a first PRACH resource set associated with each SSB, wherein the mapping rate refers to the mapping rate between the SSB and the PRACH resource.

13. The method according to claim 12, characterized in that, The first set of PRACH resources associated with an SSB is the first N PRACH resources among the PRACH resources associated with the SSB, where N is a positive integer. The SSB refers to any one of the at least one SSB that is actually transmitted.

14. The method according to claim 12, characterized in that, The method further includes: Send a second random access request message using the first PRACH resource; Wherein, the first PRACH resource is a PRACH resource corresponding to the first mapping rate in the first PRACH resource set associated with the first SSB, the first SSB is one of the at least one actually transmitted SSBs and the signal strength of the first SSB is greater than a first preset threshold value, and the first mapping rate is a mapping rate in the mapping rate set corresponding to the first SSB.

15. The method according to claim 14, characterized in that, The PRACH resource configuration parameters include the first mapping rate.

16. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The method further includes: Receive second configuration information, which is used to configure a second PRACH resource set associated with each SSB in at least one actually transmitted SSB and a third PRACH resource set associated with each SSB. Each PRACH resource in the second PRACH resource set associated with an SSB is used to indicate activation or deactivation of the third PRACH resource set associated with the SSB, wherein the SSB represents any one of the at least one actually transmitted SSBs.

17. The method according to claim 16, characterized in that, A portion of the PRACH resources in the second PRACH resource set associated with the SSB are used to indicate activation of the third PRACH resource set associated with the SSB, and the remaining PRACH resources are used to indicate deactivation of the third PRACH resource set associated with the SSB.

18. The method according to claim 16, characterized in that, The method further includes: Send a third random access request message using the second PRACH resource associated with the second SSB; Wherein, the second SSB is one of the at least one actually transmitted SSBs and the signal strength of the second SSB is greater than the second preset threshold value, the second PRACH resource is one of the PRACH resources in the second PRACH resource set corresponding to the second SSB, and the second PRACH resource is used to indicate the activation or deactivation of the third PRACH resource set associated with the second SSB.

19. A communication method, characterized in that, include: Send a first message, which is used to indicate the physical random access channel (PRACH) resource configuration parameters; A first random access request message is sent using valid PRACH resources, wherein the valid PRACH resources are determined based on the PRACH resource configuration parameters; The PRACH resource configuration parameters include at least one of the following: PRACH configuration cycle; PRACH temporal resource configuration index; PRACH configuration cycle scaling factor; PRACH temporal resource scaling factor; PRACH frequency domain resource scaling factor; PRACH resource activation or deactivation instructions; or... The mapping rate between the synchronization signal block SSB and the PRACH resource.

20. The method according to claim 19, characterized in that, If the first information is carried by paging downlink control information (DCI) and the value of the short message indication information in the paging DCI is a first preset value, then the paging DCI only includes the first information and the short message indication information. or, If the first information is carried by the paging DCI, and the short message indication field in the paging DCI takes the value of a second preset value, then the paging DCI only includes the first information, the short message indication information, and the paging scheduling information; or, If the first information is carried by the paging DCI and the short message indication field in the paging DCI is a third preset value, then the paging DCI only includes the first information, the short message indication information, and the short message; or, If the first information is carried by the Paging Advance Indication Information (PEI), then the first information is the common bit in the PEI.

21. The method according to claim 19, characterized in that, If the first information is carried by the paging DCI, then the position where the first information begins to take effect is: the end or start position of the paging cycle in which the paging timing corresponding to the paging DCI is located, or the position where the end or start position of the paging timing corresponding to the paging DCI is delayed by X time units, where X is a positive integer, or the end position of the paging timing corresponding to the paging DCI; or, If the first information is carried by the PEI, then the position where the first information begins to take effect is: the end or start position of the paging cycle in which the PEI monitoring time corresponds to the PEI, or the position where the end or start position of the PEI monitoring time corresponds to the PEI is delayed by Y time units, where Y is a positive integer, or the end position of the PEI monitoring time corresponding to the PEI; or... If the first information is carried by the scheduling DCI or the media access control element MAC CE, then the position where the first information begins to take effect is: the end position of the time-domain resource corresponding to the scheduling DCI or the MAC CE; or the position where the end position of the time-domain resource corresponding to the scheduling DCI is delayed by Z time units, where Z is a positive integer; or the position where the end position of the time-domain resource corresponding to the MAC CE is delayed by W time units, where W is a positive integer; or the time-domain position of the first RO after the time-domain resource corresponding to the MAC CE; or... If the first information is carried by a System Information Block (SIB), then the position where the first information begins to take effect is: the end position of the System Information (SI) window where the SIB is located.

22. The method according to claim 19, characterized in that, The method further includes: Send first configuration information, which is used to configure the mapping rate set corresponding to each SSB in at least one actually sent SSB and the first PRACH resource set associated with each SSB, wherein the mapping rate refers to the mapping rate between the SSB and the PRACH resource.

23. The method according to claim 19, characterized in that, The method further includes: Send second configuration information, which is used to configure a second PRACH resource set associated with each SSB in at least one actually transmitted SSB and a third PRACH resource set associated with each SSB. Each PRACH resource in the second PRACH resource set associated with an SSB is used to indicate the activation or deactivation of a third PRACH resource set associated with an SSB, wherein the SSB represents any one of the at least one actually transmitted SSBs.

24. A communication device, characterized in that, include: The receiving unit is configured to receive first information, which is used to indicate the physical random access channel (PRACH) resource configuration parameters. The sending unit is configured to send a first random access request message using valid PRACH resources, wherein the valid PRACH resources are determined based on the PRACH resource configuration parameters; The PRACH resource configuration parameters include at least one of the following: PRACH configuration cycle; PRACH temporal resource configuration index; PRACH configuration cycle scaling factor; PRACH temporal resource scaling factor; PRACH frequency domain resource scaling factor; PRACH resource activation or deactivation instructions; or... The mapping rate between the synchronization signal block SSB and the PRACH resource.

25. The apparatus according to claim 24, characterized in that, The temporal resource index i of the valid RO corresponding to the valid PRACH resource satisfies the following formula: i mod(1 / K1)=0, or i mod(1 / (K0*K1))=0; or, i mod(K1)=0, or i mod(K0*K1)=0; Where mod represents modulo, K0 represents the first value of the PRACH time-domain resource scaling factor, K1 represents the second value of the PRACH time-domain resource scaling factor, the second value refers to the value indicated by the first information, and the first value refers to the value before the first information indicates the second value.

26. The apparatus according to claim 25, characterized in that, The temporal resource index of the valid RO corresponding to the valid PRACH resource is renumbered from the position where the first information takes effect.

27. The apparatus according to claim 24, characterized in that, If the first information is carried by paging downlink control information (DCI) and the value of the short message indication information in the paging DCI is a first preset value, then the paging DCI only includes the first information and the short message indication information. or, If the first information is carried by the paging DCI, and the short message indication field in the paging DCI takes the value of a second preset value, then the paging DCI only includes the first information, the short message indication information, and the paging scheduling information; or, If the first information is carried by the paging DCI and the short message indication field in the paging DCI is set to a third preset value, then the paging DCI includes only the first information, the short message indication information, and the short message.

28. The apparatus according to claim 24, characterized in that, If the first information is carried by the Paging Advance Indication Information (PEI), then the first information is the common bit in the PEI.

29. The apparatus according to claim 24, characterized in that, If the first information is carried by the paging DCI, then the position where the first information begins to take effect is: The paging timing corresponding to the paging DCI is located at the end or beginning position of the paging cycle; or... The paging timing corresponding to the paging DCI is located at the position where the end or start position of the paging timing is delayed by X time units, and X is a positive integer; or... The end position of the paging timing corresponding to the paging DCI.

30. The apparatus according to claim 24, characterized in that, If the first information is carried by PEI, then the position where the first information begins to take effect is: The end or start position of the paging cycle in which the PEI monitoring timing corresponds; or... The position of the PEI monitoring timing, which is delayed by Y time units from the end or start position, and where Y is a positive integer; or... The end position of the PEI listening time corresponding to the PEI.

31. The apparatus according to claim 24, characterized in that, If the first information is carried by the scheduling DCI or the media access control element MAC CE, then the position where the first information begins to take effect is: The end position of the time-domain resource corresponding to the scheduling DCI or the MAC CE; or, The end position of the time-domain resource corresponding to the DCI scheduling is delayed by Z time units, where Z is a positive integer; or... The end position of the time-domain resource corresponding to the MAC CE is delayed by W time units, where W is a positive integer; or, The time domain location of the first RO following the time domain resource corresponding to the MAC CE.

32. The apparatus according to claim 24, characterized in that, If the first information is carried by the System Information Block (SIB), then the position where the first information begins to take effect is: The SIB is located at the end of the System Information (SI) window.

33. The apparatus according to any one of claims 24-32, characterized in that, The receiving unit is also used for: Receive second information, which is used to configure the validity period of the first information.

34. The apparatus according to claim 32, characterized in that, The starting position of the validity period of the first information is the position where the first information begins to take effect.

35. The apparatus according to claim 24, characterized in that, The receiving unit is also used for: Receive first configuration information, which is used to configure a mapping rate set corresponding to each SSB in at least one actually transmitted SSB and a first PRACH resource set associated with each SSB, wherein the mapping rate refers to the mapping rate between the SSB and the PRACH resource.

36. The apparatus according to claim 35, characterized in that, The first set of PRACH resources associated with an SSB is the first N PRACH resources among the PRACH resources associated with the SSB, where N is a positive integer. The SSB refers to any one of the at least one SSB that is actually transmitted.

37. The apparatus according to claim 35, characterized in that, The transmitting unit is further configured to: Send a second random access request message using the first PRACH resource; Wherein, the first PRACH resource is a PRACH resource corresponding to the first mapping rate in the first PRACH resource set associated with the first SSB, the first SSB is one of the at least one actually transmitted SSBs and the signal strength of the first SSB is greater than a first preset threshold value, and the first mapping rate is a mapping rate in the mapping rate set corresponding to the first SSB.

38. The apparatus according to claim 37, characterized in that, The PRACH resource configuration parameters include the first mapping rate.

39. The apparatus according to claim 24, characterized in that, The receiving unit is also used for: Receive second configuration information, which is used to configure a second PRACH resource set associated with each SSB in at least one actually transmitted SSB and a third PRACH resource set associated with each SSB. Each PRACH resource in the second PRACH resource set associated with an SSB is used to indicate activation or deactivation of the third PRACH resource set associated with the SSB, wherein the SSB represents any one of the at least one actually transmitted SSBs.

40. The apparatus according to claim 39, characterized in that, A portion of the PRACH resources in the second PRACH resource set associated with the SSB are used to indicate activation of the third PRACH resource set associated with the SSB, and the remaining PRACH resources are used to indicate deactivation of the third PRACH resource set associated with the SSB.

41. The apparatus according to claim 39, characterized in that, The transmitting unit is further configured to: Send a third random access request message using the second PRACH resource associated with the second SSB; Wherein, the second SSB is one of the at least one actually transmitted SSBs and the signal strength of the second SSB is greater than the second preset threshold value, the second PRACH resource is one of the PRACH resources in the second PRACH resource set corresponding to the second SSB, and the second PRACH resource is used to indicate the activation or deactivation of the third PRACH resource set associated with the second SSB.

42. A communication device, characterized in that, include: A transmitting unit is configured to transmit first information, wherein the first information is used to indicate physical random access channel (PRACH) resource configuration parameters. A receiving unit is configured to receive a first random access request message using valid PRACH resources, wherein the valid PRACH resources are determined based on the PRACH resource configuration parameters; The PRACH resource configuration parameters include at least one of the following: PRACH configuration cycle; PRACH temporal resource configuration index; PRACH configuration cycle scaling factor; PRACH temporal resource scaling factor; PRACH frequency domain resource scaling factor; PRACH resource activation or deactivation instructions; or... The mapping rate between the synchronization signal block SSB and the PRACH resource.

43. The apparatus according to claim 42, characterized in that, If the first information is carried by paging downlink control information (DCI) and the value of the short message indication information in the paging DCI is a first preset value, then the paging DCI only includes the first information and the short message indication information. or, If the first information is carried by the paging DCI, and the short message indication field in the paging DCI takes the value of a second preset value, then the paging DCI only includes the first information, the short message indication information, and the paging scheduling information; or, If the first information is carried by the paging DCI and the short message indication field in the paging DCI is a third preset value, then the paging DCI only includes the first information, the short message indication information, and the short message; or, If the first information is carried by the Paging Advance Indication Information (PEI), then the first information is the common bit in the PEI.

44. The apparatus according to claim 42, characterized in that, If the first information is carried by the paging DCI, then the position where the first information begins to take effect is: the end or start position of the paging cycle in which the paging timing corresponding to the paging DCI is located, or the position where the end or start position of the paging timing corresponding to the paging DCI is delayed by X time units, where X is a positive integer, or the end position of the paging timing corresponding to the paging DCI; or, If the first information is carried by the PEI, then the position where the first information begins to take effect is: the end or start position of the paging cycle in which the PEI monitoring time corresponds to the PEI, or the position where the end or start position of the PEI monitoring time corresponds to the PEI is delayed by Y time units, where Y is a positive integer, or the end position of the PEI monitoring time corresponding to the PEI; or... If the first information is carried by the scheduling DCI or the media access control element MAC CE, then the position where the first information begins to take effect is: the end position of the time-domain resource corresponding to the scheduling DCI or the MAC CE; or the position where the end position of the time-domain resource corresponding to the scheduling DCI is delayed by Z time units, where Z is a positive integer; or the position where the end position of the time-domain resource corresponding to the MAC CE is delayed by W time units, where W is a positive integer; or the time-domain position of the first RO after the time-domain resource corresponding to the MAC CE; or... If the first information is carried by a System Information Block (SIB), then the position where the first information begins to take effect is: the end position of the System Information (SI) window where the SIB is located.

45. The apparatus according to claim 42, characterized in that, The transmitting unit is further configured to: Send first configuration information, which is used to configure the mapping rate set corresponding to each SSB in at least one actually sent SSB and the first PRACH resource set associated with each SSB, wherein the mapping rate refers to the mapping rate between the SSB and the PRACH resource.

46. ​​The apparatus according to claim 42, characterized in that, The transmitting unit is further configured to: Send second configuration information, which is used to configure a second PRACH resource set associated with each SSB in at least one actually transmitted SSB and a third PRACH resource set associated with each SSB. Each PRACH resource in the second PRACH resource set associated with an SSB is used to indicate the activation or deactivation of a third PRACH resource set associated with an SSB, wherein the SSB represents any one of the at least one actually transmitted SSBs.

47. A terminal device, comprising a processor, a memory, and a computer program or instructions stored in the memory, characterized in that, The processor executes the computer program or instructions to implement the steps of the method according to any one of claims 1-18.

48. A network device, comprising a processor, a memory, and a computer program or instructions stored in the memory, characterized in that, The processor executes the computer program or instructions to implement the steps of the method according to any one of claims 19-23.

49. A chip, comprising a processor and a communication interface, characterized in that, The processor performs the steps of the method according to any one of claims 1-18 or 19-23 through the communication interface.

50. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, It stores a computer program or instructions that, when executed, implement the steps of the method as described in any one of claims 1-18 or 19-23.

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