Communication method and apparatus

Abstract

The present application discloses a communication method and apparatus. The method comprises: a terminal device determines a working state for communicating with a network device, wherein the working state comprises a first state or a second state, and the functionality of the terminal device in the first state is lower than the functionality of the terminal device in the second state; and when the working state is the first state, communication with the network device is performed on the basis of the functionality of the terminal device in the first state, and when the working state is the second state, communication with the network device is performed on the basis of the functionality of the terminal device in the second state. By using the present application, the power consumption of the terminal device can be reduced.

Description

A communication method and apparatus

[0001] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202410660865.4, filed on May 25, 2024, entitled "A Communication Method and Apparatus", the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

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

[0003] With the continuous development of wireless communication technology, high speed and low latency have always been the goals pursued in the communication field. For example, fourth-generation (4G) mobile communication systems can achieve a communication rate of 150Mbps, fifth-generation (5G) mobile communication systems can achieve a communication rate of 1.2Gbps, and future mobile communication systems are expected to achieve communication rates more than 10 times that of 5G. This necessitates that user equipment (UE) support high capacity and large bandwidth. However, in daily life, commonly used applications (APPs) do not require very high communication rates; a communication rate of 50Mbps is usually sufficient for most business needs. Therefore, if a terminal device receives services with lower communication rates at its maximum capacity for an extended period, it will result in wasted power consumption. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application provides a communication method and apparatus that can reduce the power consumption of terminal devices.

[0005] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a communication method. This method can be executed by a terminal device, or by a module applied to the terminal device (e.g., a processor, chip, or chip system), or by a logical node, logical module, or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the terminal device. The method includes:

[0006] The operating state for communicating with network devices is determined, and the operating state includes a first state or a second state. The function of the terminal device in the first state is lower than the function of the terminal device in the second state. When the operating state is the first state, the terminal device communicates with the network device according to the function of the terminal device in the first state. When the operating state is the second state, the terminal device communicates with the network device according to the function of the terminal device in the second state.

[0007] By determining the working state of communication with network devices, the terminal device can communicate with the network device according to the corresponding functions in different working states. This allows the terminal device to enable fewer functions in the first state to meet communication needs and reduce the power consumption of the terminal device.

[0008] In one possible design, the functions of the terminal device are reported, and the functions of the terminal device in the second state do not exceed the functions reported by the terminal device. By reporting the functions of the terminal device, it is beneficial for the network device to configure the functions enabled by the terminal device in the second state to not exceed the maximum functions that the terminal device can support, so as to meet the communication needs of the terminal device in the second state.

[0009] In another possible design, configuration information is received, which indicates parameter values ​​for the functions of the terminal device in the first state. By receiving configuration information, the network device can configure the terminal device according to the configuration information, so that the terminal device can meet communication needs with fewer functions enabled in the first state, thereby reducing the power consumption of the terminal device.

[0010] In another possible design, the terminal device supports a first feature between the terminal device and the network device in the first state, and the first feature is optional in the second state.

[0011] In another possible design, the first feature includes terminal device energy-saving features and / or network energy-saving features. The terminal device energy-saving features include physical downlink control channel skipping (PDCCH) feature, search space set group (SSSG) switch feature, uplink skipping (UL) feature, and / or cross-time slot scheduling feature. The network energy-saving features include cell discontinuous reception (CELL-DRX) feature and / or on-demand synchronization signal module (SSB) feature.

[0012] By instructing the terminal device to support terminal device power-saving features and / or network power-saving features in the first state, the power consumption of the terminal device in the first state can be reduced.

[0013] In another possible design, the terminal device in the first state relaxes at least one of the following functions: codebook type, number of processors, handover time, channel state information processing time, bandwidth, number of layers of MIMO antennas, physical downlink control channel monitoring pattern, and / or data transmission pattern. Appropriately relaxing the functions of the terminal device helps reduce its power consumption in the first state.

[0014] In another possible design, a first indication message is sent, which requests entry into the first state. Sending the first indication message facilitates the terminal device switching to the first state, thereby reducing the power consumption of the terminal device.

[0015] In another possible design, after sending the first indication information, the device switches to the first state after a first time period. By switching to the first state, the terminal device does not need to enable many unnecessary functions and / or features, thus reducing the power consumption of the terminal device.

[0016] In another possible design, a first indication message is sent, which requests entry into the first state; a second indication message is received, which indicates a switch to the first state. Receiving the second indication message facilitates the terminal device switching to the first state, thereby reducing the terminal device's power consumption.

[0017] In another possible design, after receiving the second indication information, the device switches to the first state after a second time period. By switching to the first state, the terminal device does not need to enable many unnecessary functions and / or features, thus reducing the power consumption of the terminal device.

[0018] In another possible design, if the terminal device does not receive information from the network device within a third time period while in the second state, it switches from the second state to the first state. By determining that no information has been received from the network device within the third time period, the terminal device switches from the second state to the first state. In the first state, the terminal device does not need to enable many unnecessary functions and / or features, which can reduce the power consumption of the terminal device.

[0019] In another possible design, a first message is sent, indicating the parameters and values ​​of the desired functionality in the first state. By sending the first message, the network device can limit the parameter values ​​of the terminal device's functionality in the first state, thereby reducing the terminal device's power consumption.

[0020] In another possible design, the first information includes N sets of parameters and parameter values. Each set of parameter values ​​includes data processing-related parameter values ​​and / or data transmission opportunity-related parameter values. The data processing-related parameter values ​​include the bandwidth and / or the number of layers of the MIMO antenna. The data transmission opportunity-related parameter values ​​include the physical downlink control channel monitoring pattern and / or the data transmission pattern. N is an integer greater than 0. This approach helps to limit the functionality of the terminal device in the first state by ensuring that the parameter values ​​satisfy the configuration combination of the N sets of parameter values ​​in the first information, thereby reducing the power consumption of the terminal device.

[0021] In another possible design, the configuration information further includes a first parameter and its value, wherein the first parameter comprises all parameters indicated by the first information, and its value satisfies the expected parameter value in the first information. By restricting the value of the first parameter of the terminal device to satisfy the expected parameter value in the first information, it is beneficial to reduce the power consumption of the terminal device.

[0022] Secondly, embodiments of this application provide a communication method, which can be executed by a network device, or by a module applied to the network device (e.g., a processor, chip, or chip system), or by a logical node, logical module, or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the network device. The method includes:

[0023] The working state for communicating with the terminal device is determined, and the working state includes a first state or a second state. The function of the terminal device in the first state is lower than the function of the terminal device in the second state. When the working state is the first state, communication with the terminal device is carried out according to the function of the terminal device in the first state. When the working state is the second state, communication with the terminal device is carried out according to the function of the terminal device in the second state.

[0024] By determining the working status of communication with the terminal device, it is beneficial to communicate with the terminal device according to the corresponding functions in different working states. This allows the terminal device to enable fewer functions in the first state to meet communication needs, thereby reducing the power consumption of the terminal device.

[0025] In one possible design, the functions reported by the terminal device are received, and the functions of the terminal device in the second state do not exceed the functions reported by the terminal device. By receiving the functions of the terminal device, the network device configures the functions enabled by the terminal device in the second state to not exceed the maximum functions that the terminal device can support, so as to meet the communication needs of the terminal device in the second state.

[0026] In another possible design, configuration information is sent, which indicates parameter values ​​for the functions of the terminal device in the first state. By sending configuration information, the network device can configure the terminal device according to the configuration information, so that the terminal device can meet communication requirements with fewer functions enabled in the first state, thereby reducing the power consumption of the terminal device.

[0027] In another possible design, the terminal device supports a first feature between the terminal device and the network device in the first state, and the first feature is optional in the second state.

[0028] In another possible design, the first feature includes terminal device energy-saving features and / or network energy-saving features. The terminal device energy-saving features include physical downlink control channel skipping (PDCCH) feature, search space set group (SSSG) switch feature, uplink skipping (UL) feature, and / or cross-time slot scheduling feature. The network energy-saving features include cell discontinuous reception (CELL-DRX) feature and / or on-demand synchronization signal module (SSB) feature.

[0029] By instructing the terminal device to support terminal device power-saving features and / or network power-saving features in the first state, the power consumption of the terminal device in the first state can be reduced.

[0030] In another possible design, the terminal device in the first state relaxes at least one of the following functions: codebook type, number of processors, handover time, channel state information processing time, bandwidth, number of layers of MIMO antennas, physical downlink control channel monitoring pattern, and / or data transmission pattern. Appropriately relaxing the functions of the terminal device helps reduce its power consumption in the first state.

[0031] In another possible design, a first indication is received, which requests entry into the first state. Receiving the first indication facilitates the terminal device switching to the first state, thereby reducing the terminal device's power consumption.

[0032] In another possible design, after sending the first indication information, the terminal device switches to the first state after a first time period. By switching to the first state, the terminal device does not need to enable many unnecessary functions and / or features, thus reducing the power consumption of the terminal device.

[0033] In another possible design, a first indication is received, which requests entry into the first state; based on the first indication, a second indication is sent, which instructs the device to switch to the first state. Sending the second indication facilitates the switching of the terminal device to the first state, thereby reducing the power consumption of the terminal device.

[0034] In another possible design, after receiving the second indication information, the terminal device switches to the first state after a second time period. By switching to the first state, the terminal device does not need to enable many unnecessary functions and / or features, thus reducing the power consumption of the terminal device.

[0035] In another possible design, the terminal device does not send information during a third time period while in the second state. By not sending information during the third time period, it is beneficial for the terminal device to actively switch from the second state to the first state. In the first state, the terminal device does not need to enable many unnecessary functions and / or features, which can reduce the power consumption of the terminal device.

[0036] In another possible design, first information is received, which indicates the parameters and values ​​of the desired functionality in the first state. By receiving the first information, the network device can limit the parameter values ​​of the terminal device's functionality in the first state, thereby reducing the terminal device's power consumption.

[0037] In another possible design, the first information includes N sets of parameters and parameter values. Each set of parameter values ​​includes data processing-related parameter values ​​and / or data transmission opportunity-related parameter values. The data processing-related parameter values ​​include the bandwidth and / or the number of layers of the MIMO antenna. The data transmission opportunity-related parameter values ​​include the physical downlink control channel monitoring pattern and / or the data transmission pattern. N is an integer greater than 0. This approach helps to limit the functionality of the terminal device in the first state by ensuring that the parameter values ​​satisfy the configuration combination of the N sets of parameter values ​​in the first information, thereby reducing the power consumption of the terminal device.

[0038] In another possible design, the configuration information further includes a first parameter and its value, wherein the first parameter comprises all parameters indicated by the first information, and its value satisfies the expected parameter value in the first information. By restricting the value of the first parameter of the terminal device to satisfy the expected parameter value in the first information, it is beneficial to reduce the power consumption of the terminal device.

[0039] Thirdly, embodiments of this application provide a communication device, which can be a terminal device, a chip, chip system, or processor that supports the terminal device in implementing the above-described methods, or a logic node, logic module, or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the terminal device. The device includes:

[0040] The processing module is used to determine the working state of communicating with the network device. The working state includes a first state or a second state, and the function of the terminal device in the first state is lower than the function of the terminal device in the second state.

[0041] The processing module is further configured to communicate with the network device according to the function of the terminal device in the first state when the working state is the first state, and to communicate with the network device according to the function of the terminal device in the second state when the working state is the second state.

[0042] In one possible design, a sending module is used to report the functions of the terminal device, wherein the functions of the terminal device in the second state do not exceed the functions reported by the terminal device.

[0043] In another possible design, a receiving module is used to receive configuration information, the configuration information being used to indicate parameter values ​​of the functions of the terminal device in the first state.

[0044] In another possible design, the terminal device supports a first feature between the terminal device and the network device in the first state, and the first feature is optional in the second state.

[0045] In another possible design, the first feature includes terminal device energy-saving features and / or network energy-saving features. The terminal device energy-saving features include physical downlink control channel skipping (PDCCH) feature, search space set group (SSSG) switch feature, uplink skipping (UL) feature, and / or cross-time slot scheduling feature. The network energy-saving features include cell discontinuous reception (CELL-DRX) feature and / or on-demand synchronization signal module (SSB) feature.

[0046] In another possible design, the terminal device in the first state relaxes at least one of the following functions, including codebook type, number of processors, switching time, channel state information processing time, bandwidth, number of layers of MIMO antennas, physical downlink control channel monitoring pattern and / or data transmission pattern.

[0047] In another possible design, a sending module is used to send first indication information, which is used to request entry into the first state.

[0048] In another possible design, the processing module is also configured to switch to the first state after a first time period following the sending of the first indication information.

[0049] In another possible design, the sending module is further configured to send first indication information, which is used to request entry into the first state; the receiving module is further configured to receive second indication information, which is used to indicate switching to the first state.

[0050] In another possible design, the processing module is also configured to switch to the first state after a second time period following the receipt of the second indication information.

[0051] In another possible design, the processing module is further configured to switch from the second state to the first state if the terminal device does not receive information from the network device within a third time period while in the second state.

[0052] In another possible design, the sending module is also used to send first information, which indicates the parameters and parameter values ​​of the function expected in the first state.

[0053] In another possible design, the first information includes N sets of parameters and parameter values. Each set of parameter values ​​in the N sets includes data processing-related parameter values ​​and / or data transmission opportunity-related parameter values. The data processing-related parameter values ​​include the bandwidth and / or the number of layers of the multiple-input multiple-output system antenna. The data transmission opportunity-related parameter values ​​include the physical downlink control channel monitoring pattern and / or the data transmission pattern. N is an integer greater than 0.

[0054] In another possible design, the configuration information also includes a first parameter and the parameter value of the first parameter, wherein the first parameter is all the parameters indicated by the first information, and the parameter value of the first parameter satisfies the expected parameter value in the first information.

[0055] The operation and beneficial effects of this communication device can be found in the method and beneficial effects described in the first aspect above, and will not be repeated here.

[0056] Fourthly, embodiments of this application provide a communication device, which can be a network device, a chip, chip system, or processor that supports the network device in implementing the above-described methods, or a logical node, logical module, or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the network device. The device includes:

[0057] The processing module is used to determine the working state of communicating with the terminal device. The working state includes a first state or a second state, wherein the function of the terminal device in the first state is lower than the function of the terminal device in the second state.

[0058] The processing module is further configured to communicate with the terminal device according to the function of the terminal device in the first state when the working state is the first state, and to communicate with the terminal device according to the function of the terminal device in the second state when the working state is the second state.

[0059] In one possible design, a receiving module is used to receive the functions reported by the terminal device, wherein the functions of the terminal device in the second state do not exceed the functions reported by the terminal device.

[0060] In another possible design, a sending module is used to send configuration information, which is used to indicate parameter values ​​of the functions of the terminal device in the first state.

[0061] In one possible design, the terminal device supports a first feature between the terminal device and the network device in the first state, and the first feature is optional in the second state.

[0062] In another possible design, the first feature includes terminal device energy-saving features and / or network energy-saving features. The terminal device energy-saving features include physical downlink control channel skipping (PDCCH) feature, search space set group (SSSG) switch feature, uplink skipping (UL) feature, and / or cross-time slot scheduling feature. The network energy-saving features include cell discontinuous reception (CELL-DRX) feature and / or on-demand synchronization signal module (SSB) feature.

[0063] In another possible design, the terminal device in the first state relaxes at least one of the following functions, including codebook type, number of processors, switching time, channel state information processing time, bandwidth, number of layers of MIMO antennas, physical downlink control channel monitoring pattern and / or data transmission pattern.

[0064] In another possible design, a receiving module is used to receive first indication information, which is used to request entering the first state.

[0065] In another possible design, the terminal device switches to the first state after sending the first indication information and after a first time period.

[0066] In another possible design, the receiving module is further configured to receive first indication information, which is used to request entering the first state; the sending module is further configured to send second indication information based on the first indication information, which is used to indicate switching to the first state.

[0067] In another possible design, after receiving the second instruction information, the terminal device switches to the first state after a second time period.

[0068] In another possible design, the sending module is also configured to not send information during the third time period when the terminal device is in the second state.

[0069] In another possible design, the receiving module is also configured to receive first information, the first information being used to indicate the parameters and parameter values ​​of the function expected in the first state.

[0070] In another possible design, the first information includes N sets of parameters and parameter values. Each set of parameter values ​​in the N sets includes data processing-related parameter values ​​and / or data transmission opportunity-related parameter values. The data processing-related parameter values ​​include the bandwidth and / or the number of layers of the multiple-input multiple-output system antenna. The data transmission opportunity-related parameter values ​​include the physical downlink control channel monitoring pattern and / or the data transmission pattern. N is an integer greater than 0.

[0071] In another possible design, the configuration information also includes a first parameter and the parameter value of the first parameter, wherein the first parameter is all the parameters indicated by the first information, and the parameter value of the first parameter satisfies the expected parameter value in the first information.

[0072] The operation and beneficial effects of this communication device can be found in the method and beneficial effects described in the second aspect above, and will not be repeated here.

[0073] Fifthly, embodiments of this application provide a communication device, which includes one or more processors. The one or more processors are used to implement the methods in any possible design or implementation of the first aspect described above.

[0074] In one possible design, the communication device may further include an interface circuit, wherein the processor is used to communicate with other devices or components through the interface circuit.

[0075] In one possible design, the communication device may further include a memory. The memory stores part or all of the computer program or instructions necessary to implement the functions described in the first aspect above. The one or more processors can execute the computer program or instructions, which, when executed, cause the communication device to implement the methods in any possible design or implementation of the first aspect above.

[0076] Sixthly, embodiments of this application provide a communication device, which includes one or more processors. The one or more processors are used to implement the methods in any possible design or implementation of the second aspect described above.

[0077] In one possible design, the communication device may further include an interface circuit, wherein the processor is used to communicate with other devices or components through the interface circuit.

[0078] In one possible design, the communication device may further include the memory. The memory stores part or all of the computer program or instructions necessary to implement the functions described in the second aspect above. The one or more processors can execute the computer program or instructions, which, when executed, cause the communication device to implement the methods in any possible design or implementation of the second aspect above.

[0079] In a seventh aspect, embodiments of this application provide a communication system comprising at least one first device and at least one second device, wherein the first device is configured to perform the steps in the first aspect described above, and the second device is configured to perform the steps in the second aspect described above.

[0080] Eighthly, embodiments of this application provide a computer-readable storage medium storing instructions that, when executed on a computer, cause the computer to perform the methods described above.

[0081] Ninthly, embodiments of this application provide a computer program product containing instructions that, when run on a computer, cause the computer to perform the methods described above.

[0082] In a tenth aspect, embodiments of this application provide a chip including a processor and a communication interface for communicating with external or internal devices, and the processor for implementing the methods described in the above aspects.

[0083] In one possible design, the chip may further include a memory storing computer programs or instructions, which the processor executes, either from the stored computer programs or instructions or derived from other programs or instructions. When the computer program or instructions are executed, the processor implements the methods described in the preceding aspects.

[0084] In another possible design, the chip can be integrated into terminal devices or network devices. Attached Figure Description

[0085] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or the background art, the accompanying drawings used in the embodiments of this application or the background art will be described below.

[0086] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a communication system applicable to the communication method of this application embodiment;

[0087] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the process for reporting the function of a terminal device;

[0088] Figure 3 is a flowchart illustrating a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0089] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a communication device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0090] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of another communication device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0091] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a terminal device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0092] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a network device provided in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0093] The embodiments of this application are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0094] It should be understood that in the description of this application, "at least one" means one or more, and "multiple" means two or more. In addition, the words "first," "second," etc., unless otherwise stated, are used only for the purpose of distinguishing descriptions and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or order.

[0095] It should be understood that in the description of this application, the indication includes direct indication (also known as explicit indication) and implicit indication. Direct indication information A refers to information A being included; implicit indication information A refers to information A being indicated through the correspondence between information A and information B, and the direct indication information B. The correspondence between information A and information B can be predefined, pre-stored, pre-burned, or pre-configured.

[0096] It should be understood that, in the description of this application, information C is used to determine information D, including both situations where information D is determined solely based on information C and situations where it is determined based on information C and other information. Furthermore, information C can also be used to determine information D indirectly, for example, where information D is determined based on information E, and information E is determined based on information C.

[0097] Furthermore, in this application, "device A sends information A to device B" can be understood as device B being the destination of information A or an intermediate device in the transmission path between the destination and device B, which may include sending information directly or indirectly to device B. Similarly, "device B receives information A from device A" can be understood as device A being the source of information A or an intermediate device in the transmission path between the source and device A, which may include receiving information directly or indirectly from device A. Information may undergo necessary processing, such as format changes, between the source and destination, but the destination can understand the valid information from the source. Similar expressions in this application can be interpreted in a similar way and will not be elaborated further here.

[0098] As shown in Figure 1, Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a communication system applicable to the communication method of this application embodiment. The communication system may include at least one network device, such as network device 101 shown in Figure 1; the communication system may also include at least one terminal device, such as terminal device 102 and terminal device 103 shown in Figure 1. Network device 101 and terminal devices (such as terminal devices 102 and 103) can communicate via a wireless link. The communication devices in this communication system, for example, network device 101 and terminal device 102, can communicate via multi-antenna technology.

[0099] It should be noted that Figure 1 is a simplified schematic diagram for ease of understanding. For example, the communication system may also include other devices, such as wireless relay devices and / or wireless backhaul devices, which are not shown in Figure 1. In practical applications, the communication system may include multiple network devices or multiple terminal devices. This application embodiment does not limit the number of network devices and terminal devices included in the communication system.

[0100] The technical solutions provided in this application can be applied to various communication systems, such as 5G or new radio (NR) systems, long term evolution (LTE) systems, LTE frequency division duplex (FDD) systems, LTE time division duplex (TDD) systems, wireless local area network (WLAN) systems, satellite communication systems, future communication systems, or integrated systems of multiple systems. The technical solutions provided in this application can also be applied to device-to-device (D2D) communication, vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication, machine-to-machine (M2M) communication, machine-type communication (MTC), and Internet of Things (IoT) communication systems or other communication systems.

[0101] In the embodiments of this application, the terminal device may also be referred to as UE, access terminal, subscriber unit, user station, mobile station, mobile station (MS), transmission and reception point (TRP), remote station, remote terminal, mobile device, user terminal, terminal, wireless communication device, user agent, or user equipment.

[0102] Terminal devices can be devices that provide voice / data, such as handheld devices with wireless connectivity, in-vehicle devices, etc. Currently, some examples of terminals include: mobile phones, tablets, laptops, PDAs, mobile internet devices (MIDs), wearable devices, virtual reality (VR) devices, augmented reality (AR) devices, wireless terminals in industrial control, wireless terminals in self-driving cars, wireless terminals in remote medical surgery, wireless terminals in smart grids, wireless terminals in transportation safety, wireless terminals in smart cities, wireless terminals in smart homes, cellular phones, cordless phones, smartphones, wireless data cards, MTC terminals, session initiation protocol (SIP) phones, wireless local loop (WLL) stations, and personal digital assistants (PDAs). The embodiments of this application do not limit this to personal assistants (PDAs), handheld devices with wireless communication capabilities, computing devices or other processing devices connected to a wireless modem, wearable devices, terminal devices in 5G networks or terminal devices in future evolved public land mobile networks (PLMNs).

[0103] By way of example and not limitation, in this embodiment, the terminal device can also be a wearable device. Wearable devices, also known as wearable smart devices, are a general term for devices that utilize wearable technology to intelligently design and develop everyday wearables, such as glasses, gloves, watches, clothing, and shoes. Wearable devices are portable devices that are worn directly on the body or integrated into the user's clothing or accessories. Wearable devices are not merely hardware devices, but also achieve powerful functions through software support, data interaction, and cloud interaction. Broadly speaking, wearable smart devices include those that are feature-rich, large in size, and can achieve complete or partial functions without relying on a smartphone, such as smartwatches or smart glasses, as well as those that focus on a specific type of application function and require the use of other devices such as smartphones, such as various smart bracelets and smart jewelry for vital sign monitoring.

[0104] In this embodiment, the device used to implement the functions of the terminal device can be the terminal device itself, or a device capable of supporting the terminal device in implementing those functions, such as a chip, chip system, or processor. It can also be a logic node, logic module, or software capable of implementing all or part of the terminal device's functions. This device can be installed in the terminal device or used in conjunction with the terminal device. In this embodiment, the chip system can be composed of chips or include chips and other discrete devices. This embodiment only uses the terminal device as an example to illustrate the device used to implement the functions of the terminal device, and does not constitute a limitation on the solution of this embodiment.

[0105] The network device in this application embodiment can be a device for communicating with a terminal device. This network device can also be called an access network device or a wireless access network device, such as a base station. In this application embodiment, the network device can refer to a radio access network (RAN) node (or device) that connects the terminal device to the wireless network. A base station can broadly encompass, or be replaced by, various names including: NodeB (NB), evolved NodeB (eNB), next generation NodeB (gNB), relay station, access point, TRP, transmitting point (TP), master station, auxiliary station, motor slide retainer (MSR) node, home base station, network controller, access node, wireless node, access point (AP), transmission node, transceiver node, baseband unit (BBU), remote radio unit (RRU), active antenna unit (AAU), remote radio head (RRH), central unit (CU), distributed unit (DU), radio unit (RU), positioning node, etc. A base station can be a macro base station, micro base station (also called a small station), relay node, donor node, or a combination thereof. A base station can also refer to a communication module, modem, or chip installed within the aforementioned equipment or apparatus. A base station can also be a mobile switching center, equipment performing base station functions in D2D, V2X, and M2M communications, network-side equipment in future communication networks, or equipment performing base station functions in future communication systems. A base station can support networks using the same or different access technologies. Optionally, a RAN node can also be a server, wearable device, vehicle, or in-vehicle equipment. For example, the access network equipment in vehicle-to-everything (V2X) technology can be a roadside unit (RSU). The embodiments of this application do not limit the specific technologies or equipment forms used in the network equipment.

[0106] In systems employing different wireless access technologies, the names of network devices may vary. For example, a base transceiver station (BTS) in a Global System for Mobile Communication (GSM) or Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) network, an NB in ​​Wideband Code Division Multiple Access (WCDMA), an eNB in ​​LTE, and a radio controller in a Cloud Radio Access Network (CRAN) scenario. Network devices can also be base station equipment in a 5G network or network equipment in a future PLMN network. Network devices can also be wearable devices, vehicle-mounted devices, TRPs, etc., but this application embodiment is not limited in this regard.

[0107] In this embodiment, the apparatus for implementing the functions of a network device can be a network device itself; it can also be an apparatus capable of supporting the network device in implementing those functions, such as a chip system, hardware circuit, software module, or a hardware circuit plus a software module. This apparatus can be installed in the network device or used in conjunction with the network device. In this embodiment, the example of a network device being used to implement the functions of a network device is provided only and does not constitute a limitation on the solutions described in this embodiment.

[0108] Network devices and / or terminal devices can be deployed on land, including indoors or outdoors, handheld or vehicle-mounted; they can also be deployed on water; and they can also be deployed in the air on airplanes, balloons, and satellites. This application does not limit the scenario in which the network devices and terminal devices are located. Furthermore, terminal devices and network devices can be hardware devices, or software functions running on dedicated hardware or general-purpose hardware, such as virtualization functions instantiated on a platform (e.g., a cloud platform), or entities that include dedicated or general-purpose hardware devices and software functions. This application does not limit the specific form of the terminal devices and network devices.

[0109] In wireless communication networks, such as mobile communication networks, the services supported by the networks are becoming increasingly diverse, thus requiring increasingly diverse demands. For example, networks need to support ultra-high speeds, ultra-low latency, and / or massive connectivity. This characteristic makes network planning, network configuration, and / or resource scheduling increasingly complex. Furthermore, as network capabilities become more powerful, such as supporting higher spectrum levels, supporting higher-order multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) technologies, supporting beamforming, and / or supporting beam management, network energy efficiency has become a hot research topic.

[0110] In daily life, the apps that people use frequently do not require communication speeds of several Gbps. For example, the communication rates required by commonly used apps to achieve a good user experience are shown in Table 1. These apps include multiple business scenarios, such as 4K video-on-demand, 4K live video, etc. Specifically, the downlink (DL) for 4K video-on-demand is 30Mbps, and the round-trip time (RTT) is less than 100ms; the DL for 4K live video is 40Mbps, and the RTT is less than 100ms; the DL for 4K 360 virtual reality (VR) panoramic video is 30-80Mbps, and the RTT is less than 100ms; the uplink (UL) for surveillance / drone backhaul is 5Mbps, and the RTT is less than 50ms; the UL for 4K news live backhaul is 40Mbps, and the RTT is less than 50ms; the UL for 4K CCTV Spring Festival Gala live backhaul is 63Mbps, and the RTT is less than 50ms; the DL / UL for telemedicine is 8-20Mbps, and the RTT is 50-100ms; the communication rate for remote teaching is 25-40Mbps, and the RTT is 80ms; and mobile high-definition 4K... The DL for 3D video is 50Mbps; the DL for connected vehicles / autonomous driving is 50Mbps; the UL for smart factories is 10Mbps; the UL for 4K 2D video surveillance in smart cities is 25Mbps; the DL for 2K XR is 50Mbps, the UL is 1Mbps, and the RTT is 25-70ms; the DL for client-side cloud gaming is 5-16Mbps, the UL is 0.2-20Mbps, and the RTT is 71-110ms; the DL for 8K FOV VR video (2D) is 100Mbps, and the RTT is less than 25ms; the DL for mobile high-definition 8K 2D video is 100Mbps; the communication rate for smart ports is 30-100Mbps, and the RTT is 50-80ms; the DL for wireless broadband requirements is 50-100Mbps; the DL for cloud virtual reality is 50-100Mbps; the DL for cloud computing is 50-100Mbps; the DL for 4K XR is 100Mbps, the UL is 2Mbps, and the RTT is 25-70ms; 8K The corresponding DL for XR is 200-300Mbps, UL is 5Mbps, and RTT is 25-70ms. Other parameters are similar and will not be repeated here. Here, DL refers to the downlink communication rate, UL refers to the uplink communication rate, and RTT refers to latency.

[0111] Table 1

[0112] It can be seen that a communication rate of 50Mbps is sufficient for the vast majority of services. Therefore, if a terminal device receives services with a lower communication rate based on its maximum function for an extended period of time, this will result in a lot of unnecessary waste of the terminal device's power consumption.

[0113] The limitations on terminal device functionality depend on the functions reported by the terminal device. That is, if the terminal device reports support for more advanced functions, the network device can configure the terminal device according to those advanced functions. Unless the network device instructs the terminal device to re-report supported functions, the terminal device cannot actively change its previously reported content. Typically, the terminal device reports supported functions based on the maximum functionality it can support, as shown in Figure 2. Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of a terminal device function reporting process. The terminal device function reporting mainly includes the following steps: S201, the network device sends a terminal device function reporting request to the terminal device. S202, the terminal device sends the functions it supports to the network device. S203, the network device configures the terminal device accordingly based on the supported functions.

[0114] Among these, the configuration of network devices on terminal devices cannot exceed the functions that the terminal devices can report.

[0115] For example, if the terminal device reports that each bandwidth part (BWP) in the Scell ​​only supports a maximum of 4 synchronization signals (SS), the network device cannot configure more than 4 SS configurations for it. Furthermore, if the terminal device does not report support for certain optional features, the terminal device does not expect the network device to configure / enable that function. If the terminal device does not report indication of physical downlink control channel skipping (PDCCH skipping) feature, the network device will not configure PDCCH skipping-related settings for it and assumes that the terminal device does not support that function.

[0116] However, the configuration of terminal devices by the aforementioned network devices has the following drawbacks: if the current service of the terminal device is one that can meet the communication needs by enabling fewer functions, or if the terminal device has a strong need for energy saving, the network device may still configure the terminal device according to the maximum functions supported by the terminal device and enable additional functions. This network configuration method will cause the terminal device to still need to enable many unnecessary functions and / or features, thereby wasting the power consumption of the terminal device.

[0117] To address the aforementioned technical problems, the embodiments of this application provide the following solutions.

[0118] As shown in Figure 3, Figure 3 is a flowchart illustrating a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application. This communication method includes, but is not limited to, the following steps:

[0119] S301: The terminal device determines the working state for communicating with the network device, and the network device determines the working state for communicating with the terminal device. The working state includes a first state or a second state. The functions of the terminal device in the first state are lower than the functions of the terminal device in the second state.

[0120] The first state is also called the first mode, and the second state is also called the second mode. The power consumption and / or complexity of the terminal device in the first state are lower than those in the second state. The first state can be a lightly connected state, and the second state can be a connected state, an idle state, an inactive state, etc. Alternatively, the first state can be a first radio resource control (RRC) connected state, and the second state can be a second RRC connected state. The first RRC connected state and the second RRC connected state are two different RRC connected states, and this application does not limit them.

[0121] In one implementation, the terminal device can send a first signaling message to the network device. The first signaling message is used to request a query of the working status of the communication between the terminal device and the network device. After receiving the first signaling message, the network device queries the working status of the communication with the terminal device based on the first signaling message, obtains the query result, and then sends the query result to the terminal device. The query result includes the working status.

[0122] In another implementation, the network device can query the working status of the terminal device, obtain the query result, and then send the query result, which includes the working status, to the terminal device.

[0123] Optionally, the terminal device can also report its functions to the network device. Furthermore, after receiving the reported functions from the terminal device, the network device can configure the terminal device based on those functions.

[0124] The functions of the terminal device may include the characteristics of the terminal device (such as the first characteristic) and / or various configurations (such as codebook type, number of processors, switching time, channel state information processing time, bandwidth, number of layers of multiple input multiple output system antennas, physical downlink control channel monitoring pattern and / or data transmission pattern, etc.). The functions of the terminal device in the first state may be different from the functions reported by the terminal device. The functions of the terminal device in the second state shall not exceed the functions reported by the terminal device. Here, the functions reported by the terminal device refer to the maximum functions that the terminal device can support.

[0125] Optionally, the network device can also send configuration information to the terminal device. Furthermore, the network device can configure the terminal device according to the parameter values ​​of the functions indicated in the configuration information.

[0126] The configuration information is used to indicate the parameter values ​​of the functions of the terminal device in the first state, and the terminal device can transmit data based on the functions reported by the terminal device in the second state.

[0127] In the first state, the terminal device supports a first feature between the terminal device and the network device. The first feature may include terminal device power saving features and / or network power saving features. The terminal device power saving features include PDCCH skipping feature, search space set group switch (SSSG switch) feature, UL skipping feature and / or cross-time slot scheduling feature. The network power saving features include CELL-DRX feature and / or on-demand SSB feature. The first feature is optional in the second state.

[0128] Optionally, the terminal device may relax at least one of the following functions in the first state: codebook type, number of processors, handover time, channel state information (CSI) processing time, bandwidth, number of layers of MIMO antennas, physical downlink control channel monitoring pattern and / or data transmission pattern.

[0129] The data transmission pattern may include a configured grant (CG) physical uplink shared channel (PUSCH) and semi-static scheduling (SPS).

[0130] For example, if the terminal device can support a maximum of 32 processors, the network device can configure the terminal device to have 32 processors in the second state, and can also configure the terminal device to have no more than 16 processors (e.g., 4) in the first state.

[0131] Specifically, network devices can indicate parameter values ​​for the functions of terminal devices in the first state in the following ways: (Including:)

[0132] In one possible approach, the network device sends configuration information to the terminal device. The configuration information may include parameter values ​​for at least one of the following functions and related configurations for a first characteristic. The at least one function includes codebook type, number of processors, switching time, channel state information processing time, bandwidth, number of layers of MIMO antennas, physical downlink control channel monitoring pattern, and / or data transmission pattern. The first characteristic includes terminal device power-saving characteristics and / or network power-saving characteristics. The terminal device power-saving characteristics include PDCCH skipping characteristics, SSSG switching characteristics, UL skipping characteristics, and / or cross-timeslot scheduling characteristics. The network power-saving characteristics include CELL-DRX characteristics and / or on-demand SSB characteristics.

[0133] In another possible approach, the network device and the terminal device obtain a mapping relationship between configuration methods and indices. This mapping relationship includes multiple configuration methods, with each configuration method corresponding to a specific index. The network device sends configuration information to the terminal device, which may include a first index. Upon receiving the configuration information, the terminal device determines the configuration method corresponding to the first index based on the mapping relationship between configuration methods and indices. The configuration method includes parameter values ​​for at least one function of a first state and related configurations for a first characteristic. The at least one function includes codebook type, number of processors, switching time, channel state information processing time, bandwidth, number of layers of MIMO antennas, physical downlink control channel monitoring pattern, and / or data transmission pattern. The first characteristic includes terminal device power-saving characteristics and / or network power-saving characteristics. Terminal device power-saving characteristics include PDCCH skipping characteristics, SSSG switching characteristics, UL skipping characteristics, and / or cross-timeslot scheduling characteristics. Network power-saving characteristics include CELL-DRX characteristics and / or on-demand SSB characteristics.

[0134] The mapping relationship between the configuration method and the index can be predefined, pre-stored, pre-burned, or pre-configured. Predefined mappings can include predefined methods, such as protocol definitions. Alternatively, the mapping relationship can be configured or pre-configured. Pre-configuration can be achieved by pre-saving the corresponding code, table, or other methods that can be used to indicate relevant information in the device. This application does not limit the specific implementation method.

[0135] For example, the mapping relationship between configuration methods and indices can be shown in Table 2. This mapping relationship includes multiple configuration methods, such as configuration method 1, configuration method 2, and so on. Specifically, the index of configuration method 1 is "1", the corresponding codebook type is type I, the number of processors is 3, the switching time is 25 symbols, the number of layers of MIMO antennas is 1, the bandwidth is 20MHz, and the first feature includes PDCCH skipping. The index of configuration method 2 is "2", the corresponding codebook type is type I, the number of processors is 4, the switching time is 25 symbols, the number of layers of MIMO antennas is 2, the bandwidth is 18MHz, and the first feature includes PDCCH skipping, SSSG switching, and CELL-DRX. Other similar methods will not be elaborated here.

[0136] Table 2

[0137] For example, if the first index is "1", it means that the configuration method corresponding to the first index is configuration method 1 in Table 2. After the terminal device receives the configuration information, if the terminal device switches to the first state, it will follow configuration method 1. In the first state, the terminal device supports the following codebook types: type I codebook, 3 processors, a switching time of 25 symbols, 1 layer of MIMO antenna, a bandwidth of 20MHz, and the first feature includes PDCCH skipping.

[0138] Optionally, the configuration information may also include X bits, the values ​​of which are used to indicate the first state configuration method among multiple configuration methods, where X is an integer greater than 0.

[0139] For example, there are multiple configuration methods, including configuration method a, configuration method b, configuration method c, and configuration method d. Configuration method a is the first configuration method among multiple configuration methods, configuration method b is the second configuration method among multiple configuration methods, configuration method c is the third configuration method among multiple configuration methods, and configuration method d is the fourth configuration method among multiple configuration methods. The configuration information includes 2 bits. If the value of the two bits is "00", then the first state configuration method is configuration method a, that is, the configuration information is used to indicate configuration method a; if the value of the two bits is "01", then the first state configuration method is configuration method b, that is, the configuration information is used to indicate configuration method b; if the value of the two bits is "10", then the first state configuration method is configuration method c, that is, the configuration information is used to indicate configuration method c; if the value of the two bits is "11", then the first state configuration method is configuration method d, that is, the configuration information is used to indicate configuration method d.

[0140] Optionally, the configuration information may also include a bit map, which includes at least one bit, where the j-th bit in the bit map represents the j-th configuration method among multiple configuration methods, and j is an integer greater than 0.

[0141] For example, there are multiple configuration methods, including configuration method a, configuration method b, configuration method c, and configuration method d. Configuration method a is the first configuration method among multiple configuration methods, configuration method b is the second configuration method among multiple configuration methods, configuration method c is the third configuration method among multiple configuration methods, and configuration method d is the fourth configuration method among multiple configuration methods. The bit map includes 4 bits. If the bit map is "1000", the configuration information is used to indicate configuration method a; if the bit map is "0100", the configuration information is used to indicate configuration method b; if the bit map is "0010", the configuration information is used to indicate configuration method c; and if the bit map is "0001", the configuration information is used to indicate configuration method d.

[0142] It should be noted that network devices can send different / same configuration information to each terminal device individually. The first state can be a state that appropriately relaxes the functions, processing capabilities (configuration) and processes reported by the terminal device. In the first state, the functions and / or the maximum supported features reported by the terminal device can be partially supported and / or partially unsupported. The most stringent restrictions supported by the terminal device can also be appropriately relaxed.

[0143] For example, the codebook types supported by the terminal device include type I codebooks (such as type I single panel codebook) and type II codebooks (such as type II codebook and enhanced type II codebook). The computational complexity of type I codebook is lower than that of type II codebook, but type II codebook has better performance. That is, under the same conditions (such as the same channel conditions and the same modulation and coding scheme (mymova checkin system, MCS)), the transmission rate of type II codebook will be higher. Since the data transmission rate required by the terminal device in the first state is not high, there is no need to use the higher-performance and more complex type II codebook. In order to save the terminal device's computing power and power consumption, the terminal device can report without being based on the type II codebook in the first state. That is to say, even if the terminal device itself has the capability of type II codebook or supports the characteristics of type II codebook, the terminal device can be set to not support type II codebook in the first state.

[0144] For example, a terminal device can support a maximum of 32 processors. The number of processors reflects the terminal device's parallel processing and storage capabilities to some extent. Since data transmission is slow and there are few data transmission opportunities in the first state, the terminal device does not need to have strong parallel processing and storage capabilities. Therefore, even if the terminal device can support a maximum of 32 processors, the terminal device can be set to support a maximum of 8 processors in the first state.

[0145] For example, the handover time of a terminal device includes BWP handover time and / or SSSG handover time. The shorter the handover time, the stricter the restrictions on the terminal device and the higher the processing power required. For SSSG handover characteristics, the maximum handover time that the terminal device needs to meet can be shown in Table 3. Table 3 includes the handover time constraints corresponding to capability1 and capability2. Terminal devices with weak capabilities need to meet the constraints shown in capability1, while terminal devices with strong capabilities need to meet the constraints shown in capability2. Specifically, the switching time for capability1 corresponding to μ=0 is 25 symbols and the switching time for capability2 is 10 symbols; the switching time for capability1 corresponding to μ=1 is 25 symbols and the switching time for capability2 is 12 symbols; the switching time for capability1 corresponding to μ=2 is 25 symbols and the switching time for capability2 is 22 symbols; the switching time for capability1 corresponding to μ=3 is 40 symbols; the switching time for capability1 corresponding to μ=5 is 160 symbols; and the switching time for capability1 corresponding to μ=6 is 320 symbols. Where μ represents the sub-carrier space (SCS), μ = 0 indicates a sub-carrier space of 15 kHz, μ = 1 indicates a sub-carrier space of 30 kHz, μ = 2 indicates a sub-carrier space of 60 kHz, μ = 3 indicates a sub-carrier space of 120 kHz, μ = 5 indicates a sub-carrier space of 480 kHz, and μ = 6 indicates a sub-carrier space of 960 kHz.

[0146] Since the terminal device is not sensitive to latency in the first state, the handover time limit can be appropriately relaxed. That is to say, regardless of whether the terminal device reports that it has capability2, the terminal device can only handover based on the handover time constraint corresponding to capability1 in the first state, or the handover time constraint corresponding to capability1 can be further relaxed (such as increasing the handover time of capability1). In the first state, the terminal device can handover based on the relaxed handover time constraint corresponding to capability1.

[0147] Table 3

[0148] For example, the terminal device can limit the channel state information processing time using the (Z, Z') parameter. The channel state information processing time delay requirements are shown in Table 4, which includes the channel state information processing time under different scenarios. Specifically, μ = 0 corresponds to Z = 10 symbols and Z' = 8 symbols; μ = 1 corresponds to Z = 13 symbols and Z' = 11 symbols; μ = 2 corresponds to Z = 25 symbols and Z' = 21 symbols; and μ = 3 corresponds to Z = 43 symbols and Z' = 36 symbols. Here, μ represents the subcarrier spacing: μ = 0 indicates a subcarrier spacing of 15 kHz, μ = 1 indicates a subcarrier spacing of 30 kHz, μ = 2 indicates a subcarrier spacing of 60 kHz, and μ = 3 indicates a subcarrier spacing of 120 kHz. Z is used to describe the parsing of downlink control information (DCI), and Z' is used to describe the measurement of the channel state.

[0149] Since the terminal device is not sensitive to latency in the first state, it can further relax the (Z, Z') parameters based on Table 4, that is, increase the channel state information processing time by adjusting the (Z, Z') parameters. In one possible approach, the terminal device can relax the channel state information processing time in the first state using the (Z, Z') parameters as shown in Table 5. Specifically, for μ = 0, Z corresponds to (10 + a_1) symbols and Z' to (8 + a_2) symbols; for μ = 1, Z corresponds to (13 + a_3) symbols and Z' to (11 + a_4) symbols; for μ = 2, Z corresponds to (25 + a_5) symbols and Z' to (21 + a_6) symbols; and for μ = 3, Z corresponds to (43 + a_7) symbols and Z' to (36 + a_8) symbols. In this application, no specific value is specified for a_i (i = 1, 2, ... 8) in Table 5. Generally, a_i can be considered to be an integer greater than or equal to 0.

[0150] Table 4

[0151] Table 5

[0152] For example, the CSI reporting cycle configuration can be selected from the range of 4-320 slots. Since the data transmission rate required by the terminal device in the first state is relatively slow, and the position of the terminal device in the first state may be relatively stable, CSI feedback is not required too frequently. Therefore, the CSI reporting cycle of the terminal device in the first state can be configured to be selected in the range of greater than or equal to 80 slots.

[0153] For example, the control channel monitoring period, such as the Searchspace period, can be 1 slot, 2 slots, 4 slots, 5 slots, 8 slots, 10 slots, 16 slots, 20 slots, ... Since the terminal device is not sensitive to latency in the first state, the Searchspace period can be configured in the range of 20 slots or more.

[0154] It should be noted that the power consumption of a terminal device is determined by both the data transmission and reception time and the power consumption per unit time. The power consumption per unit time is related to the processing capability of the terminal device; that is, the faster the data processing rate per unit time, the more powerful the terminal device, and the higher its power consumption per unit time.

[0155] The configuration of the terminal device can include the following three scenarios:

[0156] Scenario 1: The terminal device has strong processing power but limited data transmission opportunities. Specifically, the terminal device can be configured with fewer data transmission opportunities, and during these opportunities, it can transmit and receive data based on its strong capabilities. Furthermore, the strong processing power of the terminal device allows for the transmission and reception of a large amount of data per unit time. If the same amount of data is transmitted and received within a certain time period, the processing time of the terminal device is short, allowing it to quickly enter sleep mode. Strong capabilities can be achieved through larger bandwidth, a larger number of antenna layers in a MIMO system, or a larger number of component carriers (CCs), etc.

[0157] Scenario 2: The terminal device has weak processing power but many data transmission opportunities. Specifically, the terminal device can be configured with more data transmission opportunities, during which it performs data transmission and reception based on its weaker capabilities. Furthermore, the weak processing power of the terminal device means that less data can be transmitted or received per unit time. If the same amount of data is transmitted and received within a certain time period, the processing time of the terminal device will be relatively long, while the sleep time will be short, but the power consumption per unit of data transmission and reception will be low. The weaker capabilities can be represented by smaller bandwidth, fewer layers of MIMO antennas, or fewer CCs, etc.

[0158] Scenario 3: The terminal device has strong processing capabilities and multiple data transmission opportunities. Specifically, the terminal device can be configured with more data transmission opportunities, and during these opportunities, it can perform data transmission and reception based on its strong capabilities.

[0159] In scenario 1, the terminal device can quickly enter sleep mode. In scenario 2, the terminal device has lower power consumption per unit of processing. That is to say, scenarios 1 and 2 can reduce the power consumption of the terminal device to a certain extent. Scenario 3 is the most network-friendly mode and the most common configuration mode in the current network. In scenario 3, the terminal device has high power consumption per unit of processing and fewer opportunities to sleep.

[0160] To avoid scenario 3, it is necessary to impose certain limitations on the processing capabilities and data transmission opportunities of the terminal devices in the first state.

[0161] Optionally, the terminal device may send first information to the network device, the first information being used to indicate the parameters and parameter values ​​of the function expected in the first state.

[0162] The first information may include N sets of parameters and parameter values. Each set of parameter values ​​includes data processing-related parameter values ​​and / or data transmission opportunity-related parameter values. Data processing-related parameter values ​​include, but are not limited to, bandwidth and / or the number of layers of the MIMO antenna. Data transmission opportunity-related parameter values ​​include, but are not limited to, physical downlink control channel monitoring patterns and / or data transmission patterns. N is an integer greater than 0. The first information may be carried by signaling such as RRC, PUSCH, and PUCCH. Parameters refer to parameter types, parameter names, etc., such as bandwidth and the number of layers of the MIMO antenna.

[0163] Specifically, N-tuples can be used to constrain and associate the data processing-related parameter values ​​and data transmission opportunity-related parameter values ​​of the terminal device. That is, the terminal device sends a first message to the network device, reporting the desired N sets of parameters and parameter values. This allows the network device to limit the processing capacity and data transmission opportunities of the terminal device in the first state. Each of the N sets of parameters and parameter values ​​here refers to a configuration combination, not a single configuration. The network device must satisfy the entire configuration combination to meet the specified configuration, not just a portion of it.

[0164] In the NR system, the BWP for frequency range 1 (FR1) can be configured from 0MHz to 100MHz, and is configured by the parameter locationAndBandwidth; the number of antenna layers in the MIMO system is configured by the parameter maxMIMO-Layers-r16, with a maximum of 8 layers; the period of the physical downlink control channel monitoring pattern is configured by the parameter monitoringSlotPeriodicityAndOffset, and the period can be configured from 1 slot to 2560 slots.

[0165] In one possible design, if the period of the physical downlink control channel monitoring pattern is small, such as less than or equal to 16 slots, it indicates that the terminal device has strong processing power or high power consumption per unit time. The number of layers, MCS and / or bandwidth of the multiple input multiple output system antenna associated with the physical downlink control channel monitoring pattern need to be small, such as the number of layers of the multiple input multiple output system antenna cannot exceed 2 and the bandwidth cannot exceed 20MHz.

[0166] In another possible design, if the period of the physical downlink control channel monitoring pattern is configured to be large, such as a period greater than 16 slots, it indicates that the terminal device has weak processing power or low power consumption per unit time. The number of layers, MCS and / or bandwidth of the multiple input multiple output system antenna associated with the physical downlink control channel monitoring pattern need to be configured to be large; for example, the number of layers of the multiple input multiple output system antenna can exceed 2, and the bandwidth can exceed 20MHz, etc.

[0167] For example, the above N sets of parameters and parameter values ​​can be shown in Table 6. Each row in Table 6 is an N-tuple, and each column is an attribute (i.e., a parameter). Specifically, the index corresponding to the first row is A, the period of the physical downlink control channel monitoring pattern is 4 slots, the number of layers of the MIMO system antenna is 1, and the bandwidth is 20MHz; the index corresponding to the second row is B, the period of the physical downlink control channel monitoring pattern is 32 slots, the number of layers of the MIMO system antenna is 4, and the bandwidth is 100MHz. Other similar cases will not be elaborated here. This application does not limit the specific configuration method.

[0168] In one possible approach, if the terminal device reports index A to the network device, the network configuration must simultaneously satisfy the following: the period of the physical downlink control channel monitoring pattern is no greater than 4 slots, the number of layers of the multiple-input multiple-output system antenna is no greater than 1, and the bandwidth is no greater than 20 MHz.

[0169] Table 6

[0170] Among them, the data processing related parameter values ​​may also include codebook type, number of processors, switching time, channel state information processing time, bandwidth, number of layers of multiple input multiple output system antennas, physical downlink control channel monitoring pattern and / or data transmission pattern.

[0171] Optionally, the configuration information also includes a first parameter and its parameter value. The first parameter comprises all parameters indicated by the first information. The parameter value of the first parameter satisfies the expected parameter value indicated by the N-tuple in the first information. This satisfaction of the expected parameter value indicated by the N-tuple in the first information means that the parameter value of the first parameter includes the expected parameter value of each element in the N-tuple. This expectation can be understood as the capability / function / complexity of the terminal device required by the network configuration parameter values ​​being lower than the capability / function / complexity of the terminal device required by the elements in the N-tuple reported by the terminal device. Further, after receiving the first information, the network device can generate the first parameter and its parameter value based on the N sets of parameters and their values ​​in the first information.

[0172] For example, the physical downlink control channel monitoring pattern corresponding to the first set of parameter values ​​in the first information has a period of 32 slots, a multi-input multi-output (MIMO) antenna layer of 4, and a bandwidth of 120MHz. The physical downlink control channel monitoring pattern corresponding to the second set of parameter values ​​in the first information has a period of 28 slots, a multi-input multi-output (MIMO) antenna layer of 6, and a bandwidth of 100MHz. The network device can configure the first parameter and its parameter value according to the first information. For example, the physical downlink control channel monitoring pattern corresponding to the first set of parameter values ​​in the first parameter can have a period of 40 slots, a multi-input multi-output (MIMO) antenna layer of 3, and a bandwidth of 100MHz. The physical downlink control channel monitoring pattern corresponding to the second set of parameter values ​​in the first parameter can have a period of 36 slots, a multi-input multi-output (MIMO) antenna layer of 2, and a bandwidth of 90MHz.

[0173] It should be noted that the network device may receive the first information first and then send the configuration information, or the network device may send the configuration information first and then receive the first information, or the network device may send the configuration information and receive the first information simultaneously. The specific transmission order is not limited in this application.

[0174] S302: When the working state is the first state, the terminal device communicates with the network device according to the functions of the terminal device in the first state, and the network device communicates with the terminal device according to the functions of the terminal device in the first state; when the working state is the second state, the terminal device communicates with the network device according to the functions of the terminal device in the second state, and the network device communicates with the terminal device according to the functions of the terminal device in the second state.

[0175] Specifically, if the working state is the first state, the terminal device and the network device will exchange information according to the parameter values ​​of the terminal device's function in the first state; if the working state is the second state, the terminal device and the network device will exchange information according to the parameter values ​​of the terminal device's function in the second state.

[0176] Optionally, the terminal device can also switch from the second state to the first state, including but not limited to the following three cases:

[0177] In scenario 1, the terminal device sends a first indication message to the network device. Furthermore, the terminal device can switch to a light connection state after a first time period following the sending of the first indication message.

[0178] The first indication information is used to request entry into the first state. This first indication information can be carried by message (MSG)1, MSG3, the physical uplink control channel (PUCCH), or PUSCH. The first time period can be configured by the network or predefined by the protocol, and the unit of the first time period can be a symbol, slot, milliseconds, etc., which is not limited in this application. Furthermore, if the duration of the first time period is 0, it indicates no handover delay.

[0179] Optionally, if the terminal device is in an idle state when sending the first indication information, the first indication information may be carried by MSG 1 or MSG 3.

[0180] Optionally, if the terminal device is in an inactive or connected state when sending the first indication information, the first indication information may be carried by MSG1, MSG3, PUCCH, or PUSCH.

[0181] Optionally, the terminal device can also send and receive data based on the configuration before the state switch within the first time period.

[0182] Optionally, the terminal device may also refrain from sending or receiving data during the first time period. That is, during the first time period, the terminal device stops some of the functions and features configured or executed at the time of sending the first indication information, such as PDCCH blind detection, data channel transmission and reception, measurement, etc., and does not send or receive any signals.

[0183] For example, if the terminal device is in the connected state when it sends the first indication information, and the first time period is 10ms, then the terminal device sends the first indication information to the network device in the connected state. The first indication information can be carried by PUCCH. Within 10ms after sending the first indication information, the terminal device can send and receive data based on the configuration of the connected state. After 10ms after sending the first indication information, the terminal device switches from the connected state to the first state.

[0184] In scenario 2, the terminal device sends a first indication message to the network device, and the network device, based on the first indication message, sends a second indication message to the terminal device. Furthermore, the terminal device can switch to the first state after a second time period following the receipt of the second indication message.

[0185] The second indication information is used to instruct the terminal device to switch to the first state. This second indication information can be carried by MSG 2, MSG4, the media access control-control element (MAC-CE), the physical downlink shared channel (PDSCH), the physical downlink control channel (PDCCH), or RRC. The second time period can be network-configured or protocol-predefined, and its unit can be a symbol, slot, milliseconds, etc., which is not limited in this application. Furthermore, if the duration of the second time period is 0, it indicates no handover delay.

[0186] Optionally, if the terminal device is in an idle state when sending the first indication information, the first indication information is carried by MSG 1 or MSG 3, and the second indication information is carried by MSG 2 or MSG 4.

[0187] Optionally, if the terminal device is in an inactive or connected state when sending the first indication information, the first indication information is carried by MSG 1, MSG 3, PUCCH or PUSCH, and the second indication information is carried by MSG 2, MSG4, MAC CE, PDSCH, PDCCH or RRC.

[0188] Optionally, the terminal device can also send and receive data based on the configuration before the state switch during the second time period.

[0189] Optionally, the terminal device may also refrain from sending or receiving data during the second time period. That is, during the second time period, the terminal device stops some of the functions and features configured or executed at the time of sending the first indication information, such as PDCCH blind detection, data channel transmission and reception, measurement, etc., and does not send or receive any signals.

[0190] For example, if the terminal device is in the connected state when it sends the first indication information, and the second time period is 20ms, then the terminal device sends the first indication information to the network device in the connected state. The first indication information can be carried by PUCCH. After receiving the first indication information, the network device sends the second indication information to the terminal device based on the first indication information. The second indication information can be carried by MSG 2. Within 20ms after receiving the second indication information, the terminal device can send and receive data based on the configuration of the connected state. 20ms after receiving the second indication information, the terminal device switches from the connected state to the first state based on the second indication information.

[0191] Case 3: If the terminal device does not receive information from the network device within the third time period in the second state, it switches from the second state to the first state.

[0192] The third time period can be a network configuration or a protocol predefined one, and the unit of the third time period can be a symbol, slot, ms, etc., which is not limited in this application.

[0193] Specifically, a first timer can be defined. When the terminal device is in the second state, the first timer starts counting. If the duration of the first timer is longer than the third time period, it means that the first timer has timed out, and the terminal device automatically switches back to the first state after the fourth time period. If the terminal device receives information sent by the network device within the third time period, the first timer is restarted.

[0194] The fourth time period can be predefined by network configuration or protocol, and its unit can be a symbol, slot, millisecond, etc., which is not limited in this application. Furthermore, if the duration of the fourth time period is 0, it indicates no handover delay.

[0195] In one possible design, if the terminal device is in the second state and sends the first indication information to the network device within the third time period, the terminal device restarts the first timer. Furthermore, if the first time period is shorter than the third time period, the terminal device switches from the second state to the first state after the first time period.

[0196] In another possible design, if the terminal device is in the second state and receives a second indication message from the network device during the third time period, the terminal device restarts the first timer. Furthermore, based on the second indication message, the terminal device switches back to the first state after the second time period.

[0197] For example, if the terminal device is in an inactive state and does not receive information from the network device within the third time period, the terminal device switches from the inactive state to the first state.

[0198] Optionally, the second state in case 3 can also refer to the third state, which is any state other than the first state. The functions of the terminal device in the third state can be partially higher than those of the terminal device in the first state and / or the functions of the terminal device in the third state can be more than those of the terminal device in the first state. That is to say, the functions of the terminal device in the second state can be the same as or different from the functions reported by the terminal device, and this application does not limit this.

[0199] For example, if the terminal device can support codebook types including type I codebook and type II codebook, the network device can be configured to support type II codebook in the third state, and can also be configured to support type I codebook and not support type II codebook in the first state.

[0200] For example, if the terminal device can support a maximum of 32 processors, the network device can configure the terminal device to have 20 processors in the third state, and can also configure the terminal device to have no more than 16 processors (e.g., 4) in the first state.

[0201] By employing the embodiments of this application, the working state of communication between the terminal device and the network device is determined, so that the terminal device communicates with the network device according to the corresponding functions in different working states. This allows the terminal device to avoid enabling many unnecessary functions and / or features in the first state, and to meet communication needs by enabling fewer functions, thereby reducing the power consumption of the terminal device.

[0202] The methods of the embodiments of this application have been described in detail above. The following is a description of the apparatus provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0203] As shown in Figure 4, Figure 4 is a structural schematic diagram of a communication device provided in an embodiment of this application. This communication device can be a terminal device, or a chip, chip system, or processor that supports the terminal device in implementing the above-described methods, or a logic node, logic module, or software capable of implementing all or part of the terminal device's functions. This device can be used to implement any method and function of the terminal device involved in any of the foregoing embodiments. The device may include a receiving module 401, a processing module 402, and a transmitting module 403. The detailed descriptions of each module are as follows.

[0204] The processing module 402 is used to determine the working state of communicating with the network device. The working state includes a first state or a second state. The functions of the terminal device in the first state are lower than the functions of the terminal device in the second state.

[0205] The processing module 402 is also used to communicate with the network device according to the function of the terminal device in the first state when the working state is the first state, and to communicate with the network device according to the function of the terminal device in the second state when the working state is the second state.

[0206] Optionally, the sending module 403 is used to report the functions of the terminal device, and the functions of the terminal device in the second state do not exceed the functions reported by the terminal device.

[0207] Optionally, the receiving module 401 is used to receive configuration information, which is used to indicate the parameter values ​​of the functions of the terminal device in the first state.

[0208] Optionally, the terminal device supports a first feature between the terminal device and the network device in the first state, and the first feature is optional in the second state.

[0209] Optionally, the first feature includes terminal device power saving features and / or network power saving features. The terminal device power saving features include PDCCH skipping features, SSSG switching features, UL skipping features and / or cross-time slot scheduling features. The network power saving features include CELL-DRX features and / or on-demand SSB features.

[0210] Optionally, the terminal device may relax at least one of the following functions in the first state: codebook type, number of processors, handover time, channel state information processing time, bandwidth, number of layers of multiple input multiple output system antennas, physical downlink control channel monitoring pattern and / or data transmission pattern.

[0211] Optionally, the sending module 403 is also used to send first indication information, which is used to request to enter the first state.

[0212] Optionally, the processing module 402 is also configured to switch to the first state after a first time period following the sending of the first indication information.

[0213] Optionally, the sending module 403 is further configured to send first indication information, which is used to request entry into the first state; the receiving module 401 is further configured to receive second indication information, which is used to indicate switching to the first state.

[0214] Optionally, the processing module 402 is also configured to switch to the first state after a second time period following the receipt of the second indication information.

[0215] Optionally, the processing module 402 is further configured to switch from the second state to the first state if the terminal device does not receive information from the network device within a third time period in the second state.

[0216] Optionally, the sending module 403 is also used to send first information, which indicates the parameters and parameter values ​​of the function expected in the first state.

[0217] Optionally, the first information includes N sets of parameters and parameter values. Each set of parameter values ​​in the N sets includes parameter values ​​related to data processing and / or parameter values ​​related to data transmission opportunities. The parameter values ​​related to data processing include bandwidth and / or the number of layers of the multiple-input multiple-output system antenna. The parameter values ​​related to data transmission opportunities include physical downlink control channel monitoring patterns and / or data transmission patterns. N is an integer greater than 0.

[0218] Optionally, the configuration information may also include a first parameter and the parameter value of the first parameter, wherein the first parameter is all the parameters indicated by the first information, and the parameter value of the first parameter satisfies the expected parameter value in the first information.

[0219] It should be noted that the implementation of each module can also refer to the corresponding description of the method embodiment shown in Figure 3, and execute the methods and functions performed by the terminal device in the above embodiments.

[0220] As shown in Figure 5, Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of another communication device provided in an embodiment of this application. This communication device can be a network device, or a chip, chip system, or processor that supports the network device in implementing the above methods, or a logical node, logical module, or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the network device. This device can be used to implement any method and function of the network device involved in any of the foregoing embodiments. The device may include a receiving module 501, a processing module 502, and a transmitting module 503. The detailed descriptions of each module are as follows.

[0221] The processing module 502 is used to determine the working state of communicating with the terminal device. The working state includes a first state or a second state, and the function of the terminal device in the first state is lower than the function of the terminal device in the second state.

[0222] The processing module 502 is further configured to communicate with the terminal device according to the function of the terminal device in the first state when the working state is the first state, and to communicate with the terminal device according to the function of the terminal device in the second state when the working state is the second state.

[0223] The receiving module 501 is used to receive the functions reported by the terminal device, wherein the functions of the terminal device in the second state do not exceed the functions reported by the terminal device.

[0224] The sending module 503 is used to send configuration information, which is used to indicate the parameter values ​​of the functions of the terminal device in the first state.

[0225] Optionally, the terminal device supports a first feature between the terminal device and the network device in the first state, and the first feature is optional in the second state.

[0226] Optionally, the first feature includes terminal device power saving features and / or network power saving features. The terminal device power saving features include PDCCH skipping features, SSSG switching features, UL skipping features and / or cross-time slot scheduling features. The network power saving features include CELL-DRX features and / or on-demand SSB features.

[0227] Optionally, the terminal device may relax at least one of the following functions in the first state: codebook type, number of processors, handover time, channel state information processing time, bandwidth, number of layers of multiple input multiple output system antennas, physical downlink control channel monitoring pattern and / or data transmission pattern.

[0228] Optionally, the receiving module 501 is also used to receive first indication information, which is used to request to enter the first state.

[0229] Optionally, after sending the first instruction information, the terminal device switches to the first state after a first time period.

[0230] Optionally, the receiving module 501 is further configured to receive first indication information, which is used to request entering the first state; the sending module 503 is further configured to send second indication information based on the first indication information, which is used to indicate switching to the first state.

[0231] Optionally, after receiving the second instruction information, the terminal device switches to the first state after a second time period.

[0232] Optionally, the sending module 503 is also configured to not send information during a third time period in the second state of the terminal device.

[0233] Optionally, the receiving module 501 is also configured to receive first information, which indicates the parameters and parameter values ​​of the function expected in the first state.

[0234] Optionally, the first information includes N sets of parameters and parameter values. Each set of parameter values ​​in the N sets includes parameter values ​​related to data processing and / or parameter values ​​related to data transmission opportunities. The parameter values ​​related to data processing include bandwidth and / or the number of layers of the multiple-input multiple-output system antenna. The parameter values ​​related to data transmission opportunities include physical downlink control channel monitoring patterns and / or data transmission patterns. N is an integer greater than 0.

[0235] Optionally, the configuration information may also include a first parameter and the parameter value of the first parameter, wherein the first parameter is all the parameters indicated by the first information, and the parameter value of the first parameter satisfies the expected parameter value in the first information.

[0236] It should be noted that the implementation of each module can also refer to the corresponding description of the method embodiment shown in Figure 3, and execute the methods and functions performed by the network device in the above embodiments.

[0237] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of a terminal device provided in an embodiment of this application. This terminal device is used to perform the functions of the terminal device in the above method embodiments, or to implement the steps or processes performed by the terminal device in the above method embodiments.

[0238] As shown in Figure 6, the terminal device includes a processor 601 and a transceiver 602. Optionally, the terminal device also includes a memory 603. The processor 601, transceiver 602, and memory 603 can communicate with each other via internal connections to transmit control and / or data signals. The memory 603 stores computer programs, and the processor 601 retrieves and runs the computer programs from the memory 603 to control the transceiver 602 to transmit and receive signals. Optionally, the terminal device may also include an antenna for transmitting uplink data or uplink control signaling output by the transceiver 602 via wireless signals.

[0239] The processor 601 and memory 603 can be combined into a single processing device. The processor 601 executes the program code stored in the memory 603 to achieve the aforementioned functions. In specific implementations, the memory 603 can be integrated into the processor 601 or be independent of the processor 601. The processor 601 can correspond to the processing module in Figure 4.

[0240] The transceiver 602 described above can correspond to the receiving module 401 and the transmitting module 403 in Figure 4, and can also be referred to as a transceiver unit or transceiver module. The transceiver 602 may include a receiver (or receiver circuit) and a transmitter (or transmitter circuit). The receiver is used to receive signals, and the transmitter is used to transmit signals.

[0241] It should be understood that the terminal device shown in Figure 6 can implement all the processes involving the terminal device in the method embodiment shown in Figure 3. The operation and / or function of each module in the terminal device are respectively for implementing the corresponding processes in the above method embodiment. For details, please refer to the description in the above method embodiment; to avoid repetition, detailed descriptions are appropriately omitted here.

[0242] The processor 601 described above can be used to execute the actions implemented internally by the terminal device as described in the preceding method embodiments, while the transceiver 602 can be used to execute the actions described in the preceding method embodiments of sending data to or receiving data from the network device by the terminal device. For details, please refer to the descriptions in the preceding method embodiments; they will not be repeated here.

[0243] The processor 601 can be a central processing unit, a general-purpose processor, a digital signal processor, an application-specific integrated circuit, a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or other programmable logic devices, transistor logic devices, hardware components, or any combination thereof. It can implement or execute various exemplary logic blocks, modules, and circuits described in conjunction with the disclosure of this application. The processor 601 can also be a combination that implements computing functions, such as a combination of one or more microprocessors, a combination of a digital signal processor and a microprocessor, etc. The communication bus 604 can be a peripheral component interconnect (PCI) bus or an extended industry standard architecture (EISA) bus, etc. The bus can be divided into address bus, data bus, control bus, etc. For ease of illustration, only one thick line is used in Figure 6, but this does not mean that there is only one bus or one type of bus. The communication bus 604 is used to realize the connection and communication between these components. In this embodiment, the transceiver 602 is used for signaling or data communication with other node devices. Memory 603 may include volatile memory, such as nonvolatile random access memory (NVRAM), phase change RAM (PRAM), magnetoresistive RAM (MRAM), etc., and may also include non-volatile memory, such as at least one disk storage device, electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), flash memory devices, such as NOR flash memory or NAND flash memory, semiconductor devices, such as solid-state disks (SSDs), etc. Memory 603 may also be at least one storage device located remotely from the aforementioned processor 601. Memory 603 may also store a set of computer program code or configuration information. Processor 601 may also execute the program stored in memory 603. The processor can cooperate with the memory and transceiver to execute any of the methods and functions of the terminal device in the above-described embodiments.

[0244] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of a network device provided in an embodiment of this application. This network device is used to perform the functions of the network device in the above method embodiments, or to implement the steps or processes performed by the network device in the above method embodiments.

[0245] As shown in Figure 7, the network device includes a processor 701 and a transceiver 702. Optionally, the network device also includes a memory 703. The processor 701, transceiver 702, and memory 703 can communicate with each other via internal connections to transmit control and / or data signals. The memory 703 stores computer programs, and the processor 701 retrieves and runs the computer programs from the memory 703 to control the transceiver 702 to transmit and receive signals. Optionally, the network device may also include an antenna for transmitting uplink data or uplink control signaling output by the transceiver 702 via wireless signals.

[0246] The processor 701 and memory 703 described above can be combined into a single processing device. The processor 701 executes the program code stored in the memory 703 to achieve the aforementioned functions. In specific implementations, the memory 703 can be integrated into the processor 701 or be independent of the processor 701. The processor 701 can correspond to the processing module in Figure 5.

[0247] The transceiver 702 described above can correspond to the receiving module 501 and the transmitting module 503 in Figure 5, and can also be referred to as a transceiver unit or transceiver module. The transceiver 702 may include a receiver (or receiver circuit) and a transmitter (or transmitter circuit). The receiver is used to receive signals, and the transmitter is used to transmit signals.

[0248] It should be understood that the network device shown in Figure 7 can implement the various processes involved in the network device in the method embodiment shown in Figure 3. The operation and / or function of each module in the network device are respectively for implementing the corresponding processes in the above method embodiment. For details, please refer to the description in the above method embodiment; to avoid repetition, detailed descriptions are appropriately omitted here.

[0249] The processor 701 described above can be used to perform the actions implemented internally by the network device as described in the preceding method embodiments, while the transceiver 702 can be used to perform the actions described in the preceding method embodiments of sending data from the network device to the terminal device or receiving data from the terminal device. For details, please refer to the descriptions in the preceding method embodiments; they will not be repeated here.

[0250] The processor 701 can be any of the processors mentioned above. The communication bus 704 can be a PCI bus or an EISA bus, etc. The bus can be divided into an address bus, a data bus, a control bus, etc. For ease of illustration, only one thick line is used in Figure 7, but this does not mean that there is only one bus or one type of bus. The communication bus 704 is used to realize the connection and communication between these components. In this embodiment, the transceiver 702 of the network device is used to communicate with other devices for signaling or data. The memory 703 can be any of the memory types mentioned above. The memory 703 can also be at least one storage device located away from the aforementioned processor 701. The memory 703 stores a set of computer program code or configuration information, and the processor 701 executes the program in the memory 703. The processor can cooperate with the memory and the transceiver to execute any of the methods and functions of the network device in the above embodiment.

[0251] This application also provides a chip, including a processor and a communication interface, the communication interface being used to communicate with external or internal devices, and the processor being used to implement the methods described above.

[0252] In one possible design, the chip may further include a memory storing computer programs or instructions, which the processor executes, either from the stored computer programs or instructions or derived from other programs or instructions. When the computer program or instructions are executed, the processor implements the methods described in the preceding aspects.

[0253] In another possible design, the chip can be integrated into terminal devices or network devices.

[0254] This application also provides a processor for coupling with a memory to execute any method and function of the terminal device or network device involved in any of the above embodiments.

[0255] This application also provides a computer program product containing instructions that, when run on a computer, causes the computer to perform any method and function related to a terminal device or network device in any of the above embodiments.

[0256] This application also provides an apparatus for performing any method and function involving a terminal device or network device in any of the above embodiments.

[0257] This application also provides a communication system, which includes at least one terminal device and at least one network device involved in any of the above embodiments.

[0258] Those skilled in the art will clearly understand that, for the sake of convenience and brevity, the specific working process of the communication device, the unit or module within the device described above can be referred to the corresponding process in the foregoing method embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0259] In the above embodiments, implementation can be achieved entirely or partially through software, hardware, firmware, or any combination thereof. When implemented using software, it can be implemented entirely or partially as a computer program product. The computer program product includes one or more computer instructions. When the 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 website, computer, server, or data center 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 that a computer can access or a data storage device such as a server or data center that integrates one or more available media. The available media can be magnetic media (e.g., floppy disks, hard disks, magnetic tapes), optical media (e.g., digital versatile discs (DVDs)), or semiconductor media (e.g., SSDs), etc.

[0260] It should be understood that the "and / or" appearing in the embodiments of this application is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that there can be three relationships. For example, A and / or B can represent three situations: A exists alone, A and B exist simultaneously, and B exists alone.

[0261] It should be understood that in the embodiments of this application, "B corresponding to A" means that B is associated with A, and B can be determined based on A. However, it should also be understood that determining B based on A does not mean that B is determined solely based on A; B can also be determined based on A and / or other information.

[0262] It should be understood that the symbol " / " appearing in the embodiments of this application can indicate that the preceding and following objects are in an "or" relationship. Additionally, the symbol " / " can also represent a division sign, i.e., performing a division operation. For example, A / B can mean A divided by B.

[0263] It is understood that in the embodiments of this application, the terminal device and / or network device may execute some or all of the steps in the embodiments of this application. These steps or operations are merely examples. In the embodiments of this application, other operations or variations of various operations may also be performed. Furthermore, the steps may be performed in different orders as presented in the embodiments of this application, and it is not necessary to perform all the operations in the embodiments of this application.

[0264] The specific embodiments described above further illustrate the purpose, technical solution, and beneficial effects of this application. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, or improvements made within the principles of this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application.

Claims

1. A communication method characterized by comprising: The method comprises: determining a working state of the terminal device in communication with the network device, the working state comprising a first state or a second state, a function of the terminal device in the first state being lower than a function of the terminal device in the second state; communicating with the network device according to the function of the terminal device in the first state when the working state is the first state, and communicating with the network device according to the function of the terminal device in the second state when the working state is the second state.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein, The method further comprises: reporting the function of the terminal device, the function of the terminal device in the second state being no more than the function reported by the terminal device.

3. The method of claim 1 or 2, wherein, The method further comprises: receiving configuration information, the configuration information being used to indicate a parameter value of the function of the terminal device in the first state.

4. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The terminal device supports a first feature between the terminal device and the network device in the first state, the first feature being optional in the second state.

5. The method of claim 4, wherein, The first feature comprises a terminal device energy saving feature and / or a network energy saving feature, the terminal device energy saving feature comprising a physical downlink control channel skipping (PDCCH skipping) feature, a search space set group switch (SSSG switch) feature, an uplink skipping (UL skipping) feature and / or a cross-slot scheduling feature, and the network energy saving feature comprising a cell discontinuous reception (CELL-DRX) feature and / or an on demand synchronization signal block (SSB) feature.

6. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, The terminal device relaxes at least one function in the first state, the at least one function comprising a codebook type, a number of processors, a switching time, a channel state information processing time, a bandwidth, a number of layers of a multiple-input multiple-output system antenna, a physical downlink control channel monitoring pattern and / or a data transmission pattern.

7. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein The method further comprises: sending first indication information, the first indication information being used to request entering the first state.

8. The method of claim 7, wherein, The method further comprises: switching to the first state after a first time period after sending the first indication information.

9. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein The method further comprises: sending first indication information, the first indication information being used to request entering the first state; receiving second indication information, the second indication information being used to indicate switching to the first state.

10. The method of claim 9, wherein, The method further comprises: switching to the first state after a second time period after receiving the second indication information.

11. The method of any one of claims 1-6, wherein, The method further comprises: switching from the second state to the first state if the terminal device does not receive information from the network device within a third time period in the second state.

12. The method of any one of claims 1-11, wherein, The method further comprises: sending first information, the first information being used to indicate a parameter and a parameter value of a function expected in the first state.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein, The first information includes N sets of parameters and parameter values, each set of parameter values includes a data processing related parameter value and / or a data transmission opportunity related parameter value, the data processing related parameter value includes the bandwidth and / or the number of layers of the multiple-input multiple-output system antenna, and the data transmission opportunity related parameter value includes the physical downlink control channel monitoring pattern and / or the data transmission pattern, and N is an integer greater than 0.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein, The configuration information further includes a first parameter and a parameter value of the first parameter, the first parameter is all the parameters indicated by the first information, and the parameter value of the first parameter meets the expected parameter value in the first information.

15. A method of communication, comprising: Comprise: determining a working state for communication with a terminal device, the working state including a first state or a second state, the functionality of the terminal device in the first state being lower than the functionality of the terminal device in the second state; when the working state is the first state, communicating with the terminal device according to the functionality of the terminal device in the first state, and when the working state is the second state, communicating with the terminal device according to the functionality of the terminal device in the second state.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein, The method further comprises: receiving the functionality reported by the terminal device, the functionality of the terminal device in the second state being no more than the functionality reported by the terminal device.

17. The method of claim 15 or 16, wherein, The method further comprises: sending configuration information, the configuration information being used to indicate the parameter value of the functionality of the terminal device in the first state.

18. The method of any one of claims 15-17, wherein, The terminal device supports a first feature between the terminal device and the network device in the first state, and the first feature is optional in the second state.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein, The first feature includes a terminal device energy saving feature and / or a network energy saving feature, the terminal device energy saving feature includes a physical downlink control channel skipping (PDCCH skipping) feature, a search space set group switching (SSSG switch) feature, an uplink skipping (UL skipping) feature, and / or a cross-slot scheduling feature, and the network energy saving feature includes a cell discontinuous reception (CELL-DRX) feature and / or an on demand synchronization signal block (on demand SSB) feature.

20. The method of any one of claims 15-19, wherein, The terminal device relaxes at least one function in the first state, the at least one function including codebook type, processor number, switching time, channel state information processing time, bandwidth, number of layers of multiple-input multiple-output system antenna, physical downlink control channel monitoring pattern, and / or data transmission pattern.

21. The method of any one of claims 15-20, wherein, The method further comprises: receiving first indication information, the first indication information being used to request to enter the first state.

22. The method of claim 21, wherein, The terminal device switches to the first state after a first time period after sending the first indication information.

23. The method of any one of claims 15-20, wherein, The method further comprises: receiving first indication information, the first indication information being used to request to enter the first state; based on the first indication information, sending second indication information, the second indication information being used to indicate switching to the first state.

24. The method of claim 23, wherein, After receiving the second instruction information, the terminal device switches to the first state after a second time period.

25. The method of any one of claims 15-24, wherein, The method further includes: Receive first information, which is used to indicate the parameters and parameter values ​​of the function expected in the first state.

26. The method of claim 25, wherein, The first information includes N sets of parameters and parameter values. Each set of parameter values ​​in the N sets includes parameter values ​​related to data processing and / or parameter values ​​related to data transmission opportunities. The parameter values ​​related to data processing include the bandwidth and / or the number of layers of the multiple-input multiple-output system antenna. The parameter values ​​related to data transmission opportunities include the physical downlink control channel monitoring pattern and / or the data transmission pattern. N is an integer greater than 0.

27. The method of claim 26, wherein, The configuration information also includes a first parameter and the parameter value of the first parameter. The first parameter is all the parameters indicated by the first information, and the parameter value of the first parameter satisfies the expected parameter value in the first information.

28. A communications device, characterized by Includes a processor, the processor being configured to perform the method of any one of claims 1-14, or the processor being configured to perform the method of any one of claims 15-27.

29. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The computer-readable storage medium includes a computer program that, when executed by a processor, causes the method of any one of claims 1-14 or any one of claims 15-27 to be implemented.

30. A computer program product, characterised in that, The computer program product includes a computer program that, when run on a computer, causes the computer to perform the method of any one of claims 1-14 or any one of claims 15-27.

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