Communication method, communication device, communication system and storage medium

Abstract

Provided in the present disclosure are a communication method, a communication device, a communication system and a storage medium. The method comprises: sending first information to a network device, wherein the first information is used for indicating a first capability, the first capability is the capability of a terminal that is related to a first operating mode, and the power consumption of the terminal in the first operating mode is less than a first value. The method in the present disclosure can reduce the power consumption of a terminal, reduce the battery pressure of the terminal, and improve the endurance of a terminal device.

Description

Communication methods, communication equipment, communication systems, storage media Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of communication technology, and in particular to communication methods, communication devices, communication systems, and storage media. Background Technology

[0002] In communication systems, in order to save battery pressure on terminals and increase the battery life of terminal devices, a low-power operating mode is considered to be introduced. Optionally, when the terminal enters a cell environment with relatively good signal quality, the terminal can activate the low-power operating mode.

[0003] Summary of the Invention

[0004] This disclosure provides communication methods, communication devices, communication systems, and storage media.

[0005] According to a first aspect of the embodiments of this disclosure, a communication method is provided, executed by a terminal, comprising:

[0006] Send first information to the network device, the first information being used to indicate a first capability, the first capability being: a capability of the terminal related to a first operating mode, wherein the power consumption of the terminal in the first operating mode is less than a first value.

[0007] According to a second aspect of the embodiments of this disclosure, a communication method is provided, performed by a network device, the method comprising:

[0008] The receiving terminal sends first information, which is used to indicate a first capability. The first capability is a capability of the terminal related to a first working mode, wherein the power consumption of the terminal in the first working mode is less than a first value.

[0009] According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, a communication method is provided for a communication system, the communication system including a terminal and a network device, the method comprising:

[0010] The terminal sends first information to the network device. The first information is used to indicate a first capability. The first capability is: the capability of the terminal related to a first working mode, wherein the power consumption of the terminal in the first working mode is less than a first value.

[0011] The network device receives the first information sent by the terminal.

[0012] According to a fourth aspect of the embodiments of this disclosure, a terminal is provided, comprising:

[0013] The transceiver module is used to send first information to the network device. The first information is used to indicate a first capability. The first capability is a capability of the terminal related to a first working mode, wherein the power consumption of the terminal in the first working mode is less than a first value.

[0014] According to a fifth aspect of the embodiments of this disclosure, a network device is provided, comprising:

[0015] The transceiver module is used to receive first information sent by the terminal. The first information is used to indicate a first capability. The first capability is a capability of the terminal related to a first working mode, wherein the power consumption of the terminal in the first working mode is less than a first value.

[0016] According to a sixth aspect of the present disclosure, a communication device is provided, comprising:

[0017] One or more processors;

[0018] The processor is configured to invoke instructions to cause the communication device to execute any of the communication methods described in the first aspect to the second aspect.

[0019] According to a seventh aspect of the present disclosure, a communication system is provided, including a terminal and a network device, wherein the terminal is configured to implement the communication method described in the first aspect, and the network device is configured to implement the communication method described in the second aspect.

[0020] According to an eighth aspect of the present disclosure, a storage medium is provided that stores instructions that, when executed on a communication device, cause the communication device to perform a communication method as described in any of the first to second aspects.

[0021] In a ninth aspect, embodiments of this disclosure provide a program product, including a computer program that, when executed by a communication device, implements the communication methods described in the first and second aspects.

[0022] In a tenth aspect, embodiments of this disclosure provide a computer program that, when run on a computer, causes the computer to perform the communication methods described in the first and second aspects.

[0023] It is understood that the aforementioned terminals, network devices, communication devices, communication systems, storage media, program products, and computer programs are all used to execute the methods proposed in the embodiments of this disclosure. Therefore, the beneficial effects they can achieve can be referred to the beneficial effects in the corresponding methods, and will not be repeated here. Attached Figure Description

[0024] The above and / or additional aspects and advantages of this disclosure will become apparent and readily understood from the following description of the embodiments taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0025] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the architecture of some communication systems provided in the embodiments of this disclosure;

[0026] Figure 2 is an interactive schematic diagram of a communication method provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0027] Figure 3 is a flowchart illustrating a communication method provided in another embodiment of this disclosure;

[0028] Figure 4 is a flowchart illustrating a communication method provided in another embodiment of this disclosure;

[0029] Figure 5 is a flowchart illustrating a communication method provided in another embodiment of this disclosure;

[0030] Figure 6A is a schematic diagram of the structure of a terminal provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0031] Figure 6B is a schematic diagram of the structure of a network device provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0032] Figure 7A is a schematic diagram of the structure of a communication device provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0033] Figure 7B is a schematic diagram of the structure of a chip provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0034] This disclosure provides embodiments of a communication method, a communication device, a communication system, and a storage medium.

[0035] In a first aspect, embodiments of this disclosure provide a communication method executed by a terminal, the method comprising:

[0036] Send first information to the network device, the first information being used to indicate a first capability, the first capability being: a capability of the terminal related to a first operating mode, wherein the power consumption of the terminal in the first operating mode is less than a first value.

[0037] In the above embodiments, the terminal can indicate to the network device its capabilities related to a first operating mode. In this first operating mode, the terminal's power consumption is less than a first value, thus the first operating mode can be understood as a low-power operating mode. Therefore, in this embodiment of the present disclosure, the terminal can indicate to the network device its capabilities related to a low-power operating mode, so that the network device can configure the terminal accordingly based on the indicated capabilities. This allows the terminal to successfully switch to a low-power operating mode, thereby reducing terminal power consumption, saving battery pressure, and increasing the terminal's battery life.

[0038] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the first capability includes at least one of the following:

[0039] The terminal supports the first working mode;

[0040] The terminal does not support the first working mode;

[0041] Does the terminal support the first working mode?

[0042] The terminal supports transmitting signals using a first transmitter;

[0043] The terminal does not support transmitting signals using the first transmitter;

[0044] Does the terminal support sending signals using the first transmitter?

[0045] The terminal supports receiving signals using a first receiver;

[0046] The terminal does not support receiving signals using the first receiver;

[0047] Does the terminal support receiving signals using the first receiver?

[0048] The terminal supports sending signals using a first transmitter and receiving signals using a first receiver.

[0049] The terminal does not support sending signals using the first transmitter, nor does it support receiving signals using the first receiver;

[0050] Whether the terminal supports sending signals using the first transmitter and whether it supports receiving signals using the first receiver;

[0051] The terminal supports switching between a first working mode and a second working mode;

[0052] The terminal does not support switching between the first working mode and the second working mode;

[0053] Does the terminal support switching between the first working mode and the second working mode?

[0054] The terminal operates at the maximum battery threshold in the first operating mode.

[0055] The terminal operates at the minimum battery threshold of the first operating mode;

[0056] The maximum time required for the terminal to switch from the second working mode to the first working mode;

[0057] The minimum time required for the terminal to switch from the second working mode to the first working mode;

[0058] The maximum time required for the terminal to switch from the first working mode to the second working mode;

[0059] The minimum time required for the terminal to switch from the first working mode to the second working mode; wherein

[0060] The power consumption of the first transmitter is less than the first value;

[0061] The power consumption of the first receiver is less than the first value;

[0062] In the second operating mode, the power consumption of the terminal is greater than or equal to the first value.

[0063] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the first capability is reported at the terminal level or at the band level;

[0064] The first information is used to indicate any of the following:

[0065] The first capability of the terminal;

[0066] The first capability of at least one band of the terminal.

[0067] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the first information is used to determine a first configuration, which is a configuration related to the first operating mode.

[0068] In the above embodiments, the first capability is specifically defined, specifying which capabilities the first capability may include, defining the correspondence between the first capability and the terminal or the terminal's band, and explaining the function of the first capability. This clearly defines the relevant content of the first capability, enabling the terminal to clearly know which first capabilities it needs to indicate to the network device, thereby ensuring the successful indication of the first capability. This facilitates the network device to subsequently configure the terminal for low-power operation mode based on the first capability, allowing the terminal to successfully switch to low-power operation mode, thereby reducing terminal power consumption, saving terminal battery pressure, and increasing terminal device battery life.

[0069] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the method further includes:

[0070] Send a second message to the network device, the second message being used to determine a second configuration, the second configuration being used to configure the terminal to enter the first working mode and / or exit the first working mode.

[0071] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the second information includes at least one of the following:

[0072] Information used to indicate whether the terminal is low on power;

[0073] The time elapsed since the terminal became powerless;

[0074] The first power range; the first power range is: the power range within which the terminal needs to enter the first working mode;

[0075] First power level; the first power level is: the power level at which the terminal needs to enter the first working mode;

[0076] At least one alternative start time for the first working mode;

[0077] At least one alternative termination time for the first operating mode;

[0078] The minimum duration of the first working mode;

[0079] The maximum duration of the first working mode;

[0080] At least one alternative first time window, the first time window being used to indicate the time during which the terminal is in the first working mode;

[0081] At least one alternative first pattern, the first pattern being used to indicate the time when the terminal is in the first operating mode and / or the time when the terminal is not in the first operating mode;

[0082] At least one alternative first index, the first index being used to indicate a first time window;

[0083] At least one alternative second index, which is used to indicate the first pattern.

[0084] In the above embodiments, it is explained that the terminal can send second information to the network device so that the network device can configure the terminal to enter and / or leave the first working mode based on the second information. It is also explained what the second information specifically includes so that the network device can accurately configure the terminal to enter and / or leave the first working mode based on the second information, thereby improving the accuracy of the first working mode switching. This reduces terminal power consumption, saves terminal battery pressure, increases terminal device battery life, and ensures communication accuracy at the same time.

[0085] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, sending the second information to the network device includes at least one of the following:

[0086] :

[0087] The second information is periodically sent to the network device; the sending period of the second information is configured by the network device and / or agreed upon by the protocol.

[0088] Upon receiving the first signaling sent by the network device, the terminal sends the second information to the network device; the first signaling is used to trigger the terminal to send the second information.

[0089] In the above embodiments, it is explained how the terminal sends the second information to the network device to ensure that the terminal can successfully send the second information to the network device, thereby ensuring that the network device can subsequently configure the terminal to enter and / or leave the first working mode based on the second information. This can reduce the terminal's power consumption, save the terminal's battery pressure, and increase the terminal device's battery life.

[0090] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the method further includes:

[0091] The terminal may enter the first working mode based on the configuration of the network device, or the terminal may autonomously determine to enter the first working mode.

[0092] The terminal may leave the first working mode based on the configuration of the network device, or the terminal may independently decide to leave the first working mode.

[0093] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the method further includes:

[0094] The terminal exits the first working mode and sends third information to the network device, the third information indicating that the terminal has exited the first working mode.

[0095] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the third information includes at least one of the following:

[0096] Battery remaining information;

[0097] Cache Status Report (BSR);

[0098] Scheduling Request (SR);

[0099] Channel State Information (CSI);

[0100] First instruction.

[0101] In the above embodiments, when the terminal leaves the first working mode, the terminal will report third information to the network device to inform the network device that the terminal has left the first working mode. This can ensure the consistency of understanding of the first working mode between the terminal and the network device, and ensure the accuracy of subsequent communication.

[0102] Secondly, embodiments of this disclosure provide a communication method executed by a network device, the method comprising:

[0103] The receiving terminal sends first information, which is used to indicate a first capability. The first capability is a capability of the terminal related to a first working mode, wherein the power consumption of the terminal in the first working mode is less than a first value.

[0104] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, the first capability includes at least one of the following:

[0105] The terminal supports the first working mode;

[0106] The terminal does not support the first working mode;

[0107] Does the terminal support the first working mode?

[0108] The terminal supports transmitting signals using a first transmitter;

[0109] The terminal does not support transmitting signals using the first transmitter;

[0110] Does the terminal support sending signals using the first transmitter?

[0111] The terminal supports receiving signals using a first receiver;

[0112] The terminal does not support receiving signals using the first receiver;

[0113] Does the terminal support receiving signals using the first receiver?

[0114] The terminal supports sending signals using a first transmitter and receiving signals using a first receiver.

[0115] The terminal does not support sending signals using the first transmitter, nor does it support receiving signals using the first receiver;

[0116] Whether the terminal supports sending signals using the first transmitter and whether it supports receiving signals using the first receiver;

[0117] The terminal supports switching between a first working mode and a second working mode;

[0118] The terminal does not support switching between the first working mode and the second working mode;

[0119] Does the terminal support switching between the first working mode and the second working mode?

[0120] The terminal operates at the maximum battery threshold in the first operating mode.

[0121] The terminal operates at the minimum battery threshold of the first operating mode;

[0122] The maximum time required for the terminal to switch from the second working mode to the first working mode;

[0123] The minimum time required for the terminal to switch from the second working mode to the first working mode;

[0124] The maximum time required for the terminal to switch from the first working mode to the second working mode;

[0125] The minimum time required for the terminal to switch from the first working mode to the second working mode; wherein

[0126] The power consumption of the first transmitter is less than the first value;

[0127] The power consumption of the first receiver is less than the first value;

[0128] In the second operating mode, the power consumption of the terminal is greater than or equal to the first value.

[0129] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, the first capability is reported at the terminal level or at the band level;

[0130] The first information is used to indicate any of the following:

[0131] The first capability of the terminal;

[0132] The first capability of at least one band of the terminal.

[0133] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, the first information is used to determine a first configuration, which is a configuration related to the first operating mode.

[0134] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, the method further includes:

[0135] The terminal receives second information, which is used to determine a second configuration. The second configuration is used to configure the terminal to enter the first working mode and / or exit the first working mode.

[0136] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, the second information includes at least one of the following:

[0137] Information used to indicate whether the terminal is low on power;

[0138] The time elapsed since the terminal became powerless;

[0139] The first power range; the first power range is: the power range within which the terminal needs to enter the first working mode;

[0140] First power level; the first power level is: the power level at which the terminal needs to enter the first working mode;

[0141] At least one alternative start time for the first working mode;

[0142] At least one alternative termination time for the first operating mode;

[0143] The minimum duration of the first working mode;

[0144] The maximum duration of the first working mode;

[0145] At least one alternative first time window, the first time window being used to indicate the time during which the terminal is in the first working mode;

[0146] At least one alternative first pattern, the first pattern being used to indicate the time when the terminal is in the first operating mode and / or the time when the terminal is not in the first operating mode;

[0147] At least one alternative first index, the first index being used to indicate a first time window;

[0148] At least one alternative second index, which is used to indicate the first pattern.

[0149] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, receiving the second information sent by the terminal includes at least one of the following.

[0150] :

[0151] The system receives the second information periodically sent by the terminal; the sending period of the second information is configured by the network device and / or agreed upon by the protocol.

[0152] Send a first signaling message to the terminal and receive the second information sent by the terminal; the first signaling message is used to trigger the terminal to send the second information.

[0153] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, the method further includes:

[0154] Configure the terminal to enter the first working mode;

[0155] Configure the terminal to exit the first working mode.

[0156] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, the method further includes:

[0157] Receive third information, which indicates that the terminal has exited the first working mode.

[0158] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, the third information includes at least one of the following:

[0159] Battery remaining information;

[0160] Cache Status Report (BSR);

[0161] Scheduling Request (SR);

[0162] Channel State Information (CSI);

[0163] First instruction.

[0164] Thirdly, embodiments of this disclosure provide a communication method for a communication system, the communication system including a terminal and a network device, the method comprising:

[0165] The terminal sends first information to the network device. The first information is used to indicate a first capability. The first capability is a capability of the terminal related to a first working mode, wherein the power consumption of the terminal in the first working mode is less than a first value.

[0166] The network device receives the first information sent by the terminal.

[0167] Fourthly, embodiments of this disclosure provide a terminal, including:

[0168] The transceiver module is used to send first information to the network device. The first information is used to indicate a first capability. The first capability is a capability of the terminal related to a first working mode, wherein the power consumption of the terminal in the first working mode is less than a first value.

[0169] In conjunction with some embodiments of the fourth aspect, in some embodiments, the first capability includes at least one of the following:

[0170] The terminal supports the first working mode;

[0171] The terminal does not support the first working mode;

[0172] Does the terminal support the first working mode?

[0173] The terminal supports transmitting signals using a first transmitter;

[0174] The terminal does not support transmitting signals using the first transmitter;

[0175] Does the terminal support sending signals using the first transmitter?

[0176] The terminal supports receiving signals using a first receiver;

[0177] The terminal does not support receiving signals using the first receiver;

[0178] Does the terminal support receiving signals using the first receiver?

[0179] The terminal supports sending signals using a first transmitter and receiving signals using a first receiver.

[0180] The terminal does not support sending signals using the first transmitter, nor does it support receiving signals using the first receiver;

[0181] Whether the terminal supports sending signals using the first transmitter and whether it supports receiving signals using the first receiver;

[0182] The terminal supports switching between a first working mode and a second working mode;

[0183] The terminal does not support switching between the first working mode and the second working mode;

[0184] Does the terminal support switching between the first working mode and the second working mode?

[0185] The terminal operates at the maximum battery threshold in the first operating mode.

[0186] The terminal operates at the minimum battery threshold of the first operating mode;

[0187] The maximum time required for the terminal to switch from the second working mode to the first working mode;

[0188] The minimum time required for the terminal to switch from the second working mode to the first working mode;

[0189] The maximum time required for the terminal to switch from the first working mode to the second working mode;

[0190] The minimum time required for the terminal to switch from the first working mode to the second working mode; wherein

[0191] The power consumption of the first transmitter is less than the first value;

[0192] The power consumption of the first receiver is less than the first value;

[0193] In the second operating mode, the power consumption of the terminal is greater than or equal to the first value.

[0194] In conjunction with some embodiments of the fourth aspect, in some embodiments, the first capability is reported at the terminal level or at the band level;

[0195] The first information is used to indicate any of the following:

[0196] The first capability of the terminal;

[0197] The first capability of at least one band of the terminal.

[0198] In conjunction with some embodiments of the fourth aspect, in some embodiments, the first information is used to determine a first configuration, the first configuration being a configuration related to the first operating mode.

[0199] In conjunction with some embodiments of the fourth aspect, in some embodiments, the method further includes:

[0200] Send a second message to the network device, the second message being used to determine a second configuration, the second configuration being used to configure the terminal to enter the first working mode and / or exit the first working mode.

[0201] In conjunction with some embodiments of the fourth aspect, in some embodiments, the second information includes at least one of the following:

[0202] Information used to indicate whether the terminal is low on power;

[0203] The time elapsed since the terminal became powerless;

[0204] The first power range; the first power range is: the power range within which the terminal needs to enter the first working mode;

[0205] First power level; the first power level is: the power level at which the terminal needs to enter the first working mode;

[0206] At least one alternative start time for the first working mode;

[0207] At least one alternative termination time for the first operating mode;

[0208] The minimum duration of the first working mode;

[0209] The maximum duration of the first working mode;

[0210] At least one alternative first time window, the first time window being used to indicate the time during which the terminal is in the first working mode;

[0211] At least one alternative first pattern, the first pattern being used to indicate the time when the terminal is in the first operating mode and / or the time when the terminal is not in the first operating mode;

[0212] At least one alternative first index, the first index being used to indicate a first time window;

[0213] At least one alternative second index, which is used to indicate the first pattern.

[0214] In conjunction with some embodiments of the fourth aspect, in some embodiments, sending the second information to the network device includes at least one of the following:

[0215] :

[0216] The second information is periodically sent to the network device; the sending period of the second information is configured by the network device and / or agreed upon by the protocol.

[0217] Upon receiving the first signaling sent by the network device, the terminal sends the second information to the network device; the first signaling is used to trigger the terminal to send the second information.

[0218] In conjunction with some embodiments of the fourth aspect, in some embodiments, the method further includes:

[0219] The terminal may enter the first working mode based on the configuration of the network device, or the terminal may autonomously determine to enter the first working mode.

[0220] The terminal may leave the first working mode based on the configuration of the network device, or the terminal may independently decide to leave the first working mode.

[0221] In conjunction with some embodiments of the fourth aspect, in some embodiments, the method further includes:

[0222] The terminal exits the first working mode and sends third information to the network device, the third information indicating that the terminal has exited the first working mode.

[0223] In conjunction with some embodiments of the fourth aspect, in some embodiments, the third information includes at least one of the following:

[0224] Battery remaining information;

[0225] Cache Status Report (BSR);

[0226] Scheduling Request (SR);

[0227] Channel State Information (CSI);

[0228] First instruction.

[0229] Fifthly, embodiments of this disclosure provide a network device, comprising:

[0230] The transceiver module is used to receive first information sent by the terminal. The first information is used to indicate a first capability. The first capability is a capability of the terminal related to a first working mode, wherein the power consumption of the terminal in the first working mode is less than a first value.

[0231] In conjunction with some embodiments of the fifth aspect, in some embodiments, the first capability includes at least one of the following:

[0232] The terminal supports the first working mode;

[0233] The terminal does not support the first working mode;

[0234] Does the terminal support the first working mode?

[0235] The terminal supports transmitting signals using a first transmitter;

[0236] The terminal does not support transmitting signals using the first transmitter;

[0237] Does the terminal support sending signals using the first transmitter?

[0238] The terminal supports receiving signals using a first receiver;

[0239] The terminal does not support receiving signals using the first receiver;

[0240] Does the terminal support receiving signals using the first receiver?

[0241] The terminal supports sending signals using a first transmitter and receiving signals using a first receiver.

[0242] The terminal does not support sending signals using the first transmitter, nor does it support receiving signals using the first receiver;

[0243] Whether the terminal supports sending signals using the first transmitter and whether it supports receiving signals using the first receiver;

[0244] The terminal supports switching between a first working mode and a second working mode;

[0245] The terminal does not support switching between the first working mode and the second working mode;

[0246] Does the terminal support switching between the first working mode and the second working mode?

[0247] The terminal operates at the maximum battery threshold in the first operating mode.

[0248] The terminal operates at the minimum battery threshold of the first operating mode;

[0249] The maximum time required for the terminal to switch from the second working mode to the first working mode;

[0250] The minimum time required for the terminal to switch from the second working mode to the first working mode;

[0251] The maximum time required for the terminal to switch from the first working mode to the second working mode;

[0252] The minimum time required for the terminal to switch from the first working mode to the second working mode; wherein

[0253] The power consumption of the first transmitter is less than the first value;

[0254] The power consumption of the first receiver is less than the first value;

[0255] In the second operating mode, the power consumption of the terminal is greater than or equal to the first value.

[0256] In conjunction with some embodiments of the fifth aspect, in some embodiments, the first capability is reported at the terminal level or at the band level;

[0257] The first information is used to indicate any of the following:

[0258] The first capability of the terminal;

[0259] The first capability of at least one band of the terminal.

[0260] In conjunction with some embodiments of the fifth aspect, in some embodiments, the first information is used to determine a first configuration, the first configuration being a configuration related to the first operating mode.

[0261] In conjunction with some embodiments of the fifth aspect, in some embodiments, the method further includes:

[0262] The terminal receives second information, which is used to determine a second configuration. The second configuration is used to configure the terminal to enter the first working mode and / or exit the first working mode.

[0263] In conjunction with some embodiments of the fifth aspect, in some embodiments, the second information includes at least one of the following:

[0264] Information used to indicate whether the terminal is low on power;

[0265] The time elapsed since the terminal became powerless;

[0266] The first power range; the first power range is: the power range within which the terminal needs to enter the first working mode;

[0267] First power level; the first power level is: the power level at which the terminal needs to enter the first working mode;

[0268] At least one alternative start time for the first working mode;

[0269] At least one alternative termination time for the first operating mode;

[0270] The minimum duration of the first working mode;

[0271] The maximum duration of the first working mode;

[0272] At least one alternative first time window, the first time window being used to indicate the time during which the terminal is in the first working mode;

[0273] At least one alternative first pattern, the first pattern being used to indicate the time when the terminal is in the first operating mode and / or the time when the terminal is not in the first operating mode;

[0274] At least one alternative first index, the first index being used to indicate a first time window;

[0275] At least one alternative second index, which is used to indicate the first pattern.

[0276] In conjunction with some embodiments of the fifth aspect, in some embodiments, receiving the second information sent by the terminal includes at least one of the following.

[0277] :

[0278] The system receives the second information periodically sent by the terminal; the sending period of the second information is configured by the network device and / or agreed upon by the protocol.

[0279] Send a first signaling message to the terminal and receive the second information sent by the terminal; the first signaling message is used to trigger the terminal to send the second information.

[0280] In conjunction with some embodiments of the fifth aspect, in some embodiments, the method further includes:

[0281] Configure the terminal to enter the first working mode;

[0282] Configure the terminal to exit the first working mode.

[0283] In conjunction with some embodiments of the fifth aspect, in some embodiments, the method further includes:

[0284] Receive third information, which indicates that the terminal has exited the first working mode.

[0285] In conjunction with some embodiments of the fifth aspect, in some embodiments, the third information includes at least one of the following:

[0286] Battery remaining information;

[0287] Cache Status Report (BSR);

[0288] Scheduling Request (SR);

[0289] Channel State Information (CSI);

[0290] First instruction.

[0291] In a sixth aspect, embodiments of this disclosure provide a communication device comprising: one or more processors; one or more memories for storing instructions; wherein the processors are configured to invoke the instructions to cause the communication device to perform the methods described in the first aspect, the optional implementation of the first aspect, the second aspect, and the optional implementation of the second aspect.

[0292] In a seventh aspect, embodiments of this disclosure provide a communication system comprising: a terminal and a network device; wherein the terminal is configured to perform the method described in the first aspect and its optional implementations, and the network device is configured to perform the method described in the second aspect and its optional implementations.

[0293] Eighthly, embodiments of this disclosure provide a storage medium storing instructions that, when executed on a communication device, cause the communication device to perform the method described in the first aspect, an optional implementation of the first aspect, the second aspect, and an optional implementation of the second aspect.

[0294] In a ninth aspect, embodiments of this disclosure provide a program product including a computer program that, when executed by a processor, implements the methods described in the first aspect, optional implementations of the first aspect, the second aspect, and optional implementations of the second aspect.

[0295] In a tenth aspect, embodiments of this disclosure provide a computer program that, when run on a computer, causes the computer to perform the methods described in the first aspect, an optional implementation of the first aspect, the second aspect, and an optional implementation of the second aspect.

[0296] It is understood that the aforementioned terminals, network devices, communication devices, communication systems, storage media, program products, and computer programs are all used to execute the methods proposed in the embodiments of this disclosure. Therefore, the beneficial effects they can achieve can be referred to the beneficial effects in the corresponding methods, and will not be repeated here.

[0297] This disclosure provides communication methods, communication devices, communication systems, and storage media. In some embodiments, the terms "communication method" can be used interchangeably with "information processing method," "information sending method," and "information receiving method," and the terms "communication device" can be used interchangeably with "information processing device," "information sending device," and "information receiving device," and the terms "information processing system," "communication system," "information sending system," and "information receiving system" can be used interchangeably.

[0298] This disclosure is not exhaustive, but merely illustrative of some embodiments, and is not intended to limit the scope of protection of this disclosure. Unless otherwise specified, each step in a particular embodiment can be implemented as an independent embodiment, and the steps can be arbitrarily combined. For example, a solution after removing some steps in a particular embodiment can also be implemented as an independent embodiment, and the order of the steps in a particular embodiment can be arbitrarily interchanged. Furthermore, the optional implementation methods in a particular embodiment can be arbitrarily combined; moreover, the embodiments can be arbitrarily combined, for example, some or all steps of different embodiments can be arbitrarily combined, and a particular embodiment can be arbitrarily combined with the optional implementation methods of other embodiments.

[0299] In each of the disclosed embodiments, unless otherwise specified or in case of logical conflict, the terminology and / or descriptions of the embodiments are consistent and can be referenced by each other. Technical features in different embodiments can be combined to form new embodiments based on their inherent logical relationships.

[0300] The terminology used in the embodiments of this disclosure is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure.

[0301] In this embodiment of the disclosure, unless otherwise stated, elements expressed in the singular form, such as "a," "an," "the," "the," "the," "the," "the," "the," "this," etc., can mean "one and only one," or "one or more," "at least one," etc. For example, when using articles such as "a," "an," "the," etc. in translation, the noun following the article can be understood as either a singular expression or a plural expression.

[0302] In the embodiments disclosed herein, "multiple" refers to two or more.

[0303] In some embodiments, the terms “at least one of”, “at least one of”, “at least one of”, “one or more”, “a plurality of”, “multiple”, etc., may be used interchangeably.

[0304] The descriptions in this disclosure, such as "at least one of A, B, C..." or "A and / or B and / or C...", include the case where any one of A, B, C... exists alone, as well as the case where any combination of any of A, B, C... exists alone. Each case can exist alone. For example, "at least one of A, B, C" includes the cases of A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B combination, A and C combination, B and C combination, and A and B and C combination. For example, A and / or B includes the cases of A alone, B alone, and A and B combination.

[0305] In some embodiments, the notation "in one case A, in another case B" or "in response to one case A, in response to another case B" may include the following technical solutions depending on the situation: A is executed regardless of B, i.e., A is executed in some embodiments; B is executed regardless of A, i.e., B is executed in some embodiments; A and B are selectively executed, i.e., A and B are selected for execution in some embodiments; A and B are both executed, i.e., A and B are executed in some embodiments. The same applies when there are more branches such as A, B, and C.

[0306] The prefixes "first," "second," etc., used in the embodiments of this disclosure are merely for distinguishing different descriptive objects and do not impose restrictions on the position, order, priority, quantity, or content of the descriptive objects. The description of the descriptive objects is found in the claims or the context of the embodiments, and the use of prefixes should not constitute unnecessary restrictions. For example, if the descriptive object is a "field," the ordinal numbers preceding "field" in "first field" and "second field" do not restrict the position or order of the "fields." "First" and "second" do not restrict whether the "fields" they modify are in the same message, nor do they restrict the order of "first field" and "second field." Similarly, if the descriptive object is a "level," the ordinal numbers preceding "level" in "first level" and "second level" do not restrict the priority between "levels." Furthermore, the number of descriptive objects is not limited by ordinal numbers and can be one or more. For example, in "first device," the number of "devices" can be one or more. Furthermore, the objects modified by different prefixes can be the same or different. For example, if the object being described is "device", then "first device" and "second device" can be the same device or different devices, and their types can be the same or different. Similarly, if the object being described is "information", then "first information" and "second information" can be the same information or different information, and their content can be the same or different.

[0307] In some embodiments, “including A,” “containing A,” “for indicating A,” and “carrying A” can be interpreted as directly carrying A or indirectly indicating A.

[0308] In some embodiments, the terms “in response to…”, “in response to determining…”, “in the case of…”, “when…”, “if…”, “if…”, etc., can be used interchangeably.

[0309] In some embodiments, the terms “greater than,” “greater than or equal to,” “not less than,” “more than,” “more than or equal to,” “not less than,” “higher than,” “higher than or equal to,” “not lower than,” and “above” can be used interchangeably, as can the terms “less than,” “less than or equal to,” “not greater than,” “less than,” “less than or equal to,” “not more than,” “lower than,” “lower than or equal to,” “not higher than,” and “below”.

[0310] In some embodiments, devices, etc., can be interpreted as physical or virtual, and their names are not limited to the names recorded in the embodiments. Terms such as “device”, “equipment”, “circuit”, “network element”, “node”, “function”, “unit”, “section”, “system”, “network”, “chip”, “chip system”, “entity”, and “subject” can be used interchangeably.

[0311] In some embodiments, "network" can be interpreted as devices included in a network (e.g., access network devices, core network devices, etc.).

[0312] In some embodiments, the terms "access network device (AN device)," "radio access network device (RAN device)," "base station (BS)," "radio base station," "fixed station," "node," "access point," "transmission point (TP)," "reception point (RP)," "transmission / reception point (TRP)," "panel," "antenna panel," "antenna array," "cell," "macro cell," "small cell," "femto cell," "pico cell," "sector," "cell group," "carrier," "component carrier," and "bandwidth part (BWP)" can be used interchangeably.

[0313] In some embodiments, the terms "terminal", "terminal device", "user equipment (UE)", "user terminal", "mobile station (MS)", "mobile terminal (MT)", "subscriber station", "mobile unit", "subscriber unit", "wireless unit", "remote unit", "mobile device", "wireless device", "wireless communication device", "remote device", "mobile subscriber station", "access terminal", "mobile terminal", "wireless terminal", "remote terminal", "handset", "user agent", "mobile client", and "client" can be used interchangeably.

[0314] In some embodiments, access network devices, core network devices, or network devices can be replaced by terminals. For example, embodiments of this disclosure can also be applied to structures that replace communication between access network devices, core network devices, or network devices and terminals with communication between multiple terminals (e.g., also referred to as device-to-device (D2D), vehicle-to-everything (V2X), etc.). In this case, the structure can also be configured such that the terminal has all or part of the functions of the access network device. Furthermore, terms such as "uplink" and "downlink" can be replaced with terms corresponding to communication between terminals (e.g., "sidelink"). For example, uplink channel, downlink channel, etc., can be replaced with sidelink channel, uplink link, downlink link, etc., can be replaced with sidelink link.

[0315] In some embodiments, the terminal may be replaced by an access network device, a core network device, or a network device. In this case, the access network device, core network device, or network device may also be configured to have all or some of the functions of the terminal.

[0316] In some embodiments, the acquisition of data, information, etc., may comply with the laws and regulations of the country where the location is situated.

[0317] In some embodiments, data, information, etc., may be obtained with the user's consent.

[0318] Furthermore, each element, each row, or each column in the table of this disclosure can be implemented as an independent embodiment, and any combination of any element, any row, or any column can also be implemented as an independent embodiment.

[0319] The correspondences shown in the tables of this disclosure can be configured or predefined. The values ​​of the information in each table are merely examples and can be configured to other values; this disclosure is not limiting. When configuring the correspondences between information and parameters, it is not necessarily required to configure all the correspondences shown in each table. For example, the correspondences shown in some rows of the tables in this disclosure may not be configured. Furthermore, appropriate modifications and adjustments can be made based on the above tables, such as splitting, merging, etc. The names of the parameters shown in the headers of the above tables can also use other names that the communication device can understand, and the values ​​or representations of the parameters can also be other values ​​or representations that the communication device can understand. In the implementation of the above tables, other data structures can also be used, such as arrays, queues, containers, stacks, linear lists, pointers, linked lists, trees, graphs, structures, classes, heaps, hash tables, or hash tables, etc.

[0320] The predefined terms in this disclosure can be understood as defined, predefined, stored, pre-stored, pre-negotiated, pre-configured, solidified, or pre-burned.

[0321] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the architecture of a communication system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 1, the communication system 100 may include a terminal and network devices. Optionally, the network devices may include at least one of access network devices and core network devices.

[0322] In some embodiments, the terminal includes, but is not limited to, at least one of the following: mobile phone, user equipment (UE), wearable device, Internet of Things (IoT) device, narrowband Internet of Things (NB-IoT) device, car with communication function, smart car, tablet computer, computer with wireless transceiver function, virtual reality (VR) terminal device, augmented reality (AR) terminal device, wireless terminal device in industrial control, wireless terminal device in self-driving, wireless terminal device in remote medical surgery, wireless terminal device in smart grid, wireless terminal device in transportation safety, wireless terminal device in smart city, and wireless terminal device in smart home.

[0323] In some embodiments, the access network device is, for example, a node or device that connects a terminal to a wireless network. The access network device may include, but is not limited to, at least one of the following in a 5G communication system: evolved Node B (eNB), next-generation eNB (ng-eNB), next-generation Node B (gNB), node B (NB), home node B (HNB), home evolved node B (HeNB), wireless backhaul device, radio network controller (RNC), base station controller (BSC), base transceiver station (BTS), base band unit (BBU), mobile switching center, base station in a 6G communication system, open RAN, cloud RAN, base station in other communication systems, and access node in a wireless fidelity (WiFi) system.

[0324] In some embodiments, the technical solutions of this disclosure can be applied to the Open RAN architecture. In this case, the interfaces between or within access network devices involved in the embodiments of this disclosure can be transformed into internal interfaces of Open RAN. The processes and information interactions between these internal interfaces can be implemented by software or programs.

[0325] In some embodiments, the access network device may be composed of a central unit (CU) and a distributed unit (DU). The CU may also be called a control unit. The CU-DU structure can separate the protocol layer of the access network device. Some of the protocol layer functions are centrally controlled by the CU, while the remaining part or all of the protocol layer functions are distributed in the DU and centrally controlled by the CU. However, this is not the only possibility.

[0326] In some embodiments, the core network device may be a single device comprising one or more network elements, or multiple devices or a group of devices, each comprising all or part of one or more network elements. Network elements may be virtual or physical. The core network may include, for example, at least one of an Evolved Packet Core (EPC), a 5G Core Network (5GCN), and a Next Generation Core (NGC). Alternatively, the core network device may also be a location management function network element. Exemplarily, the location management function network element includes a location server, which may be implemented as any of the following: a Location Management Function (LMF), an Enhanced Serving Mobile Location Centre (E-SMLC), a Secure User Plane Location (SUPL), and a Secure User Plane Location Platform (SUPLLP).

[0327] It is understood that the communication system described in this disclosure is for the purpose of more clearly illustrating the technical solutions of this disclosure, and does not constitute a limitation on the technical solutions proposed in this disclosure. As those skilled in the art will know, with the evolution of system architecture and the emergence of new business scenarios, the technical solutions proposed in this disclosure are also applicable to similar technical problems.

[0328] The following embodiments of this disclosure can be applied to the communication system 100 shown in FIG1, or to some of the main bodies, but are not limited thereto. The main bodies shown in FIG1 are illustrative. The communication system may include all or some of the main bodies in FIG1, or may include other main bodies outside of FIG1. ​​The number and form of each main body are arbitrary. The connection relationship between the main bodies is illustrative. The main bodies may not be connected to each other or may be connected in any way. The connection may be direct or indirect, wired or wireless.

[0329] The embodiments disclosed herein can be applied to Long Term Evolution (LTE), LTE-Advanced (LTE-A), LTE-Beyond (LTE-B), SUPER 3G, IMT-Advanced, 4th generation mobile communication system (4G), 5th generation mobile communication system (5G), 5G new radio (NR), Future Radio Access (FRA), New-Radio Access Technology (RAT), New Radio (NR), New radio access (NX), Future generation radio access (FX), Global System for Mobile communications (GSM), CDMA2000, Ultra Mobile Broadband (UMB), IEEE 802.11 (Wi-Fi), IEEE 802.16 (WiMAX), and IEEE 802.20, Ultra-Wideband (UWB), Bluetooth (a registered trademark), Public Land Mobile Network (PLMN) networks, Device-to-Device (D2D) systems, Machine-to-Machine (M2M) systems, Internet of Things (IoT) systems, Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) systems, systems utilizing other communication methods, and next-generation systems built upon them, etc. Furthermore, multiple systems can be combined (e.g., a combination of LTE or LTE-A with 5G).

[0330] Optionally, the network device can typically configure the terminal regarding low-power operating modes. For example, the network device can configure the terminal to enter or exit a low-power operating mode, or it can configure trigger conditions for entering and / or exiting a low-power operating mode. In some embodiments, when configuring the terminal regarding low-power operating modes, the network device usually needs to understand the terminal's low-power operating mode capabilities to accurately configure the terminal based on those capabilities. Alternatively, in other embodiments, the terminal can also report auxiliary information to the network device, so that the network device can configure the terminal regarding low-power operating modes based on that auxiliary information.

[0331] However, the capabilities related to the low-power operating mode of terminals are not yet clearly defined, nor is it clear how terminals should report auxiliary information. Furthermore, there is no clear definition regarding whether the terminal should notify network devices when it exits low-power operating mode.

[0332] Figure 2 is an interactive schematic diagram of a communication method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 2, this embodiment of the disclosure relates to a communication method for a communication system 100, the method comprising:

[0333] Step 2101: The terminal sends the first information to the network device.

[0334] Optionally, the first information can be used to indicate a first capability, which can be a capability related to a first operating mode of the terminal. In this first operating mode, the power consumption of the terminal is less than a first value. Optionally, the first operating mode can be understood as a low-power operating mode. Optionally, the terminal can enter or leave the first operating mode based on the configuration of the network device, or the terminal can determine whether to enter or leave the first operating mode based on its own implementation. In some embodiments, when the terminal is in the first operating mode, the network device can schedule the terminal to perform uplink and / or downlink transmissions in this first operating mode.

[0335] Optionally, in some embodiments, when the terminal is in a first operating mode, the terminal and the network device can transmit data via a first channel. This first channel may include at least one of the following:

[0336] Low-power physical downlink control channel (LP PDCCH);

[0337] Low-power physical uplink shared channel (LP PUSCH);

[0338] Low-power physical downlink shared channel (LP PDSCH)

[0339] Low-power physical uplink control channel (LP PUCCH).

[0340] Optionally, the Radio Resource Control (RRC) state in which the terminal is in the first working mode may include at least one of the following: RRC connected state (RRC_CONNECTED), RRC inactive state (RRC_INACTIVE), and RRC idle state (RRC_IDLE).

[0341] Optionally, the aforementioned first information can be used to determine a first configuration, which may be a configuration related to a first operating mode. Optionally, the "configuration related to the first operating mode" here may include at least one of the following:

[0342] Configure the terminal to enter the first working mode;

[0343] Configure the terminal to exit the first working mode;

[0344] Configure the entry trigger conditions for the first working mode;

[0345] Configure the exit trigger conditions for the first working mode.

[0346] Optionally, in some embodiments, the specific capabilities included in the first capability may be defined by a protocol. For example, the first capability may include at least one of the following:

[0347] The terminal supports the first working mode;

[0348] The terminal does not support the first working mode;

[0349] Does the terminal support the first working mode?

[0350] The terminal supports sending signals using the first transmitter;

[0351] The terminal does not support sending signals using the first transmitter;

[0352] Does the terminal support sending signals using the first transmitter?

[0353] The terminal supports receiving signals using the first receiver;

[0354] The terminal does not support receiving signals using the first receiver;

[0355] Does the terminal support receiving signals using the first receiver?

[0356] The terminal supports sending signals using the first transmitter and receiving signals using the first receiver.

[0357] The terminal does not support sending signals using the first transmitter, nor does it support receiving signals using the first receiver;

[0358] Whether the terminal supports sending signals using the first transmitter and whether it supports receiving signals using the first receiver;

[0359] The terminal supports switching between the first working mode and the second working mode;

[0360] The terminal does not support switching between the first working mode and the second working mode;

[0361] Does the terminal support switching between the first working mode and the second working mode?

[0362] The maximum battery threshold for the terminal to operate in the first working mode;

[0363] The minimum battery threshold for the terminal to operate in the first operating mode;

[0364] The maximum time required for the terminal to switch from the second working mode to the first working mode;

[0365] The minimum time required for the terminal to switch from the second working mode to the first working mode;

[0366] The maximum time required for the terminal to switch from the first working mode to the second working mode;

[0367] The minimum time required for the terminal to switch from the first working mode to the second working mode.

[0368] Optionally, the power consumption of the first transmitter is less than the first value; the power consumption of the first receiver is less than the first value; for example, the first transmitter may be a low power transmitter (LPT), and the first receiver may be a low power receiver (LPR).

[0369] Optionally, in the second operating mode described above, the power consumption of the terminal is greater than or equal to the first value. In some embodiments, the second operating mode can be understood as the normal power consumption operating mode of the terminal.

[0370] Optionally, the battery threshold mentioned above can be expressed as a percentage; for example, the maximum battery threshold can be 50% of the terminal's charge. Alternatively, the battery threshold can also be expressed in absolute energy units, such as milliwatts, watts, etc.

[0371] Optionally, the aforementioned duration can be expressed in absolute time units or relative time units. Optionally, absolute time units can be, for example, minutes, seconds, milliseconds, hours, etc. For instance, the maximum duration required to switch from the first working mode to the second working mode can be 10 minutes. Relative time units can be, for instance, time slots, symbols, frames, etc. For instance, the maximum duration required to switch from the first working mode to the second working mode can be 10 time slots.

[0372] Optionally, in some embodiments, different first capabilities may correspond to different indication values, and the first information can indicate the first capability by indicating the indication value corresponding to the first capability. Optionally, the indication value may be, for example, a byte, a character, a string, a bit value, etc.

[0373] Optionally, in some embodiments, different terminals correspond to different first capabilities, and different terminals may correspond to the same or different first capabilities; or, different frequency bands of the terminals correspond to different first capabilities, and different bands may correspond to the same or different first capabilities. Optionally, the first capability may be reported at the terminal level, or it may be reported at the band level. In some embodiments, the first information sent by the terminal to the network device may indicate the terminal's first capability; or, the first information sent by the terminal to the network device may indicate the first capability of at least one band of the terminal.

[0374] Step 2102: The network device sends the first signaling to the terminal.

[0375] Optionally, the first signaling can be used to configure the period for the terminal to send the second information; or, the first signaling can be used to trigger the terminal to send the second information. In some embodiments, the first signaling may include at least one of the following: downlink control information (DCI) signaling, medium access control control element (MAC CE) signaling, radio resource control (RRC) signaling, etc.

[0376] Optionally, the second information can be used to determine a second configuration, which can be used to configure the terminal to enter and / or exit the first working mode.

[0377] Optionally, the second information may include at least one of the following:

[0378] Information used to indicate whether the terminal is low on power;

[0379] Time remaining until the terminal runs out of power;

[0380] First power range;

[0381] First power level;

[0382] At least one alternative start time for the first working mode;

[0383] At least one alternative termination time for the first working mode;

[0384] Minimum duration of the first working mode;

[0385] Maximum duration of the first working mode;

[0386] At least one alternative first time window, which can be used to indicate the time during which the terminal is in a first working mode;

[0387] At least one alternative first pattern, which can be used to indicate the time when the terminal is in a first operating mode and / or the time when the terminal is not in the first operating mode; optionally, the terminal being in the first operating mode can also be referred to as an "enabled state", and the terminal not being in the first operating mode can also be referred to as a disabled state.

[0388] At least one alternative first index, which can be used to indicate the first time window;

[0389] At least one alternative second index, which can be used to indicate the first pattern.

[0390] Optionally, the aforementioned first power range can be the power range at which the terminal needs to enter the first working mode, such as being less than 50% power.

[0391] Optionally, the first power level mentioned above can be the power level at which the terminal needs to enter the first working mode; alternatively, the power can be divided into different power levels based on different power ranges. For example, the power range below 50% power can be divided into power level "1", then the first power level can be power level "1".

[0392] Optionally, the second configuration may include at least one of the following:

[0393] Start time of the first working mode;

[0394] The end time of the first working mode;

[0395] Duration of the first working mode;

[0396] First window of opportunity;

[0397] First drawing;

[0398] First index;

[0399] Second index.

[0400] Optionally, the start time in the second configuration can be any of the alternative start times in the second information, the end time in the second configuration can be any of the alternative end times in the second information, the duration in the second configuration can be between the minimum duration and the maximum duration in the second information, the first time window in the second configuration can be any of the alternative first time windows in the second information, the first pattern in the second configuration can be any of the alternative first patterns in the second information, the first index in the second configuration can be any of the alternative first indices in the second information, and the second index in the second configuration can be any of the alternative second indices in the second information.

[0401] Step 2103: The terminal sends the second information to the network device.

[0402] In some embodiments, the terminal may periodically send second information to the network device. Optionally, the sending period of the second information may be configured by the network device through first signaling, or the sending period may be agreed upon by a protocol.

[0403] In other embodiments, when the terminal receives a first signaling message from the network device to trigger the transmission of second information, the terminal then sends the first signaling message to the network device.

[0404] Step 2104: The terminal enters the first working mode based on the network device configuration, or the terminal determines itself to enter the first working mode.

[0405] Optionally, the method for a terminal to enter a first working mode based on the configuration of a network device may include: the network device first determines a first configuration based on a first capability it has received, and / or determines a second configuration based on second information it has received, and sends the first configuration and / or the second configuration to the terminal so that the terminal can determine to enter the first working mode based on the first configuration and / or the second configuration.

[0406] Step 2105: The terminal leaves the first working mode based on the network device configuration, or the terminal decides to leave the first working mode independently.

[0407] Optionally, the method for a terminal to exit the first working mode based on the configuration of the network device may include: the network device first determines a first configuration based on a first capability it has received, and / or determines a second configuration based on second information it has received, and sends the first configuration and / or the second configuration to the terminal so that the terminal can determine to exit the first working mode based on the first configuration and / or the second configuration.

[0408] Step 2106: The terminal exits the first working mode and sends third information to the network device.

[0409] Optionally, the third information can be used to indicate that the terminal has exited the first operating mode. The third information can be carried by the uplink channel and can include at least one of the following:

[0410] Battery remaining information;

[0411] Buffer Status Report (BSR);

[0412] Scheduling Request (SR);

[0413] Channel-state information (CSI);

[0414] First instruction.

[0415] Optionally, the first indication can be understood as a display indication, such as a bit value "1 or 0".

[0416] Step 2107: The network device determines that the terminal has exited the first working mode.

[0417] Optionally, when the network device receives third information sent by the terminal, the network device can determine that the terminal has left the first working mode.

[0418] In the above embodiments, the terminal can indicate to the network device its capabilities related to a first operating mode. In this first operating mode, the terminal's power consumption is less than a first value, which can be understood as a low-power operating mode. Therefore, in this embodiment, the terminal can indicate to the network device its capabilities related to a low-power operating mode, so that the network device can configure the terminal accordingly, enabling the terminal to successfully switch to a low-power operating mode. This reduces terminal power consumption, saves battery pressure, and increases the terminal's battery life.

[0419] In the above embodiments, it is explained that the terminal can send second information to the network device so that the network device can configure the terminal to enter and / or leave the first working mode based on the second information. It is also explained what the second information specifically includes so that the network device can accurately configure the terminal to enter and / or leave the first working mode based on the second information, thereby improving the accuracy of the first working mode switching. This reduces terminal power consumption, saves terminal battery pressure, increases terminal device battery life, and ensures communication accuracy at the same time.

[0420] In the above embodiments, when the terminal leaves the first working mode, the terminal will report third information to the network device to inform the network device that the terminal has left the first working mode. This can ensure the consistency of understanding of the first working mode between the terminal and the network device, and ensure the accuracy of subsequent communication.

[0421] The communication method involved in the embodiments of this disclosure may include at least one of steps 2101 to 2107. For example, step 2101 may be implemented as a separate embodiment, step 2102 may be implemented as a separate embodiment, step 2103 may be implemented as a separate embodiment, and step 2101+S2102 may be implemented as a separate embodiment, but is not limited thereto.

[0422] In this implementation or embodiment, unless there is contradiction, each step can be independent, arbitrarily combined or exchanged in order, optional methods or optional examples can be arbitrarily combined, and can be arbitrarily combined with any steps of other implementations or other embodiments.

[0423] Figure 3 is a flowchart illustrating a communication method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 3, the present disclosure relates to a communication method for a terminal, the method comprising:

[0424] Step 3101: Send the first message to the network device.

[0425] Optionally, the first information is used to indicate a first capability, which is: a capability of the terminal related to a first operating mode, wherein the power consumption of the terminal in the first operating mode is less than a first value.

[0426] Optionally, the first capability includes at least one of the following:

[0427] The terminal supports the first working mode;

[0428] The terminal does not support the first working mode;

[0429] Does the terminal support the first working mode?

[0430] The terminal supports transmitting signals using a first transmitter;

[0431] The terminal does not support transmitting signals using the first transmitter;

[0432] Does the terminal support sending signals using the first transmitter?

[0433] The terminal supports receiving signals using a first receiver;

[0434] The terminal does not support receiving signals using the first receiver;

[0435] Does the terminal support receiving signals using the first receiver?

[0436] The terminal supports sending signals using a first transmitter and receiving signals using a first receiver.

[0437] The terminal does not support sending signals using the first transmitter, nor does it support receiving signals using the first receiver;

[0438] Whether the terminal supports sending signals using the first transmitter and whether it supports receiving signals using the first receiver;

[0439] The terminal supports switching between a first working mode and a second working mode;

[0440] The terminal does not support switching between the first working mode and the second working mode;

[0441] Does the terminal support switching between the first working mode and the second working mode?

[0442] The terminal operates at the maximum battery threshold in the first operating mode.

[0443] The terminal operates at the minimum battery threshold of the first operating mode;

[0444] The maximum time required for the terminal to switch from the second working mode to the first working mode;

[0445] The minimum time required for the terminal to switch from the second working mode to the first working mode;

[0446] The maximum time required for the terminal to switch from the first working mode to the second working mode;

[0447] The minimum time required for the terminal to switch from the first working mode to the second working mode; wherein

[0448] The power consumption of the first transmitter is less than the first value;

[0449] The power consumption of the first receiver is less than the first value;

[0450] In the second operating mode, the power consumption of the terminal is greater than or equal to the first value.

[0451] Optionally, the first capability is reported at the terminal level or at the band level;

[0452] The first information is used to indicate any of the following:

[0453] The first capability of the terminal;

[0454] The first capability of at least one band of the terminal.

[0455] Optionally, the first information is used to determine a first configuration, which is a configuration related to the first working mode.

[0456] Optionally, the method further includes:

[0457] Send a second message to the network device, the second message being used to determine a second configuration, the second configuration being used to configure the terminal to enter the first working mode and / or exit the first working mode.

[0458] Optionally, the second information includes at least one of the following:

[0459] Information used to indicate whether the terminal is low on power;

[0460] The time elapsed since the terminal became powerless;

[0461] The first power range; the first power range is: the power range within which the terminal needs to enter the first working mode;

[0462] First power level; the first power level is: the power level at which the terminal needs to enter the first working mode;

[0463] At least one alternative start time for the first working mode;

[0464] At least one alternative termination time for the first operating mode;

[0465] The minimum duration of the first working mode;

[0466] The maximum duration of the first working mode;

[0467] At least one alternative first time window, the first time window being used to indicate the time during which the terminal is in the first working mode;

[0468] At least one alternative first pattern, the first pattern being used to indicate the time when the terminal is in the first operating mode and / or the time when the terminal is not in the first operating mode;

[0469] At least one alternative first index, the first index being used to indicate a first time window;

[0470] At least one alternative second index, which is used to indicate the first pattern.

[0471] Optionally, sending the second information to the network device includes at least one of the following:

[0472] The second information is periodically sent to the network device; the sending period of the second information is configured by the network device and / or agreed upon by the protocol.

[0473] Upon receiving the first signaling sent by the network device, the terminal sends the second information to the network device; the first signaling is used to trigger the terminal to send the second information.

[0474] Optionally, the method further includes:

[0475] The terminal may enter the first working mode based on the configuration of the network device, or the terminal may autonomously determine to enter the first working mode.

[0476] The terminal may leave the first working mode based on the configuration of the network device, or the terminal may independently decide to leave the first working mode.

[0477] Optionally, the method further includes:

[0478] The terminal exits the first working mode and sends third information to the network device, the third information indicating that the terminal has exited the first working mode.

[0479] Optionally, the third information includes at least one of the following:

[0480] Battery remaining information;

[0481] Cache Status Report (BSR);

[0482] Scheduling Request (SR);

[0483] Channel State Information (CSI);

[0484] First instruction.

[0485] For a detailed description of step 3101, please refer to the above embodiment.

[0486] In this implementation or embodiment, unless there is contradiction, each step can be independent, arbitrarily combined or exchanged in order, optional methods or optional examples can be arbitrarily combined, and can be arbitrarily combined with any steps of other implementations or other embodiments.

[0487] Figure 4 is a flowchart illustrating a communication method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 4, the present disclosure relates to a communication method for a network device, the method comprising:

[0488] Step 4101: Receive the first information sent by the terminal.

[0489] Optionally, the first information is used to indicate the first capability.

[0490] Optionally, the first capability is: the capability of the terminal related to the first working mode, wherein the power consumption of the terminal in the first working mode is less than a first value.

[0491] Optionally, the first capability includes at least one of the following:

[0492] The terminal supports the first working mode;

[0493] The terminal does not support the first working mode;

[0494] Does the terminal support the first working mode?

[0495] The terminal supports transmitting signals using a first transmitter;

[0496] The terminal does not support transmitting signals using the first transmitter;

[0497] Does the terminal support sending signals using the first transmitter?

[0498] The terminal supports receiving signals using a first receiver;

[0499] The terminal does not support receiving signals using the first receiver;

[0500] Does the terminal support receiving signals using the first receiver?

[0501] The terminal supports sending signals using a first transmitter and receiving signals using a first receiver.

[0502] The terminal does not support sending signals using the first transmitter, nor does it support receiving signals using the first receiver;

[0503] Whether the terminal supports sending signals using the first transmitter and whether it supports receiving signals using the first receiver;

[0504] The terminal supports switching between a first working mode and a second working mode;

[0505] The terminal does not support switching between the first working mode and the second working mode;

[0506] Does the terminal support switching between the first working mode and the second working mode?

[0507] The terminal operates at the maximum battery threshold in the first operating mode.

[0508] The terminal operates at the minimum battery threshold of the first operating mode;

[0509] The maximum time required for the terminal to switch from the second working mode to the first working mode;

[0510] The minimum time required for the terminal to switch from the second working mode to the first working mode;

[0511] The maximum time required for the terminal to switch from the first working mode to the second working mode;

[0512] The minimum time required for the terminal to switch from the first working mode to the second working mode; wherein

[0513] The power consumption of the first transmitter is less than the first value;

[0514] The power consumption of the first receiver is less than the first value;

[0515] In the second operating mode, the power consumption of the terminal is greater than or equal to the first value.

[0516] Optionally, the first capability is reported at the terminal level or at the band level;

[0517] The first information is used to indicate any of the following:

[0518] The first capability of the terminal;

[0519] The first capability of at least one band of the terminal.

[0520] Optionally, the first information is used to determine a first configuration, which is a configuration related to the first working mode.

[0521] Optionally, the method further includes:

[0522] The terminal receives second information, which is used to determine a second configuration. The second configuration is used to configure the terminal to enter the first working mode and / or exit the first working mode.

[0523] Optionally, the second information includes at least one of the following:

[0524] Information used to indicate whether the terminal is low on power;

[0525] The time elapsed since the terminal became powerless;

[0526] The first power range; the first power range is: the power range within which the terminal needs to enter the first working mode;

[0527] First power level; the first power level is: the power level at which the terminal needs to enter the first working mode;

[0528] At least one alternative start time for the first working mode;

[0529] At least one alternative termination time for the first operating mode;

[0530] The minimum duration of the first working mode;

[0531] The maximum duration of the first working mode;

[0532] At least one alternative first time window, the first time window being used to indicate the time during which the terminal is in the first working mode;

[0533] At least one alternative first pattern, the first pattern being used to indicate the time when the terminal is in the first operating mode and / or the time when the terminal is not in the first operating mode;

[0534] At least one alternative first index, the first index being used to indicate a first time window;

[0535] At least one alternative second index, which is used to indicate the first pattern.

[0536] Optionally, receiving the second information sent by the terminal includes at least one of the following:

[0537] The system receives the second information periodically sent by the terminal; the sending period of the second information is configured by the network device and / or agreed upon by the protocol.

[0538] Send a first signaling message to the terminal and receive the second information sent by the terminal; the first signaling message is used to trigger the terminal to send the second information.

[0539] Optionally, the method further includes:

[0540] Configure the terminal to enter the first working mode;

[0541] Configure the terminal to exit the first working mode.

[0542] Optionally, the method further includes:

[0543] Receive third information, which indicates that the terminal has exited the first working mode.

[0544] Optionally, the third information includes at least one of the following:

[0545] Battery remaining information;

[0546] Cache Status Report (BSR);

[0547] Scheduling Request (SR);

[0548] Channel State Information (CSI);

[0549] First instruction.

[0550] For a detailed description of step 4101, please refer to the above embodiment.

[0551] In this implementation or embodiment, unless there is contradiction, each step can be independent, arbitrarily combined or exchanged in order, optional methods or optional examples can be arbitrarily combined, and can be arbitrarily combined with any steps of other implementations or other embodiments.

[0552] Figure 5 is a flowchart illustrating a communication method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 5, the present disclosure relates to a communication method for a communication system, which includes a terminal and a network device. The method includes at least one of the following:

[0553] Step 5101: The terminal sends the first information to the network device;

[0554] Step 5102: The network device receives the first information sent by the terminal.

[0555] The optional implementation methods of steps 5101-5102 can be found in the above embodiments.

[0556] In some embodiments, the above methods may include the methods described in the embodiments of the communication system side, terminal side, network device side, etc., which will not be repeated here.

[0557] The communication method involved in the embodiments of this disclosure may include at least one of steps 5101 to 5102. For example, step 5101 may be implemented as a separate embodiment, and step 5102 may be implemented as a separate embodiment, but are not limited thereto.

[0558] In this implementation or embodiment, unless there is contradiction, each step can be independent, arbitrarily combined or exchanged in order, optional methods or optional examples can be arbitrarily combined, and can be arbitrarily combined with any steps of other implementations or other embodiments.

[0559] The following is an exemplary description of the above method.

[0560] Optional embodiments

[0561] Based on network device configuration or the terminal device's own implementation, the terminal device can operate in a first mode. When operating in the first mode, the terminal device is in a low-power operating state. This low-power operating state includes, but is not limited to, sending uplink transmissions via LPT and / or receiving downlink transmissions via LPR. Furthermore, the network device can schedule the terminal device's uplink and / or downlink transmissions in the first mode.

[0562] Optionally, when the terminal device is in the first mode, the network device may send downlink signals to the terminal device through a specific channel, and / or may receive uplink signals sent by the terminal device through a specific channel.

[0563] Optionally, the first mode operates in at least one of the following RRC states: RRC_CONNECTED, RRC_INACTIVE, and RRC_IDLE.

[0564] The protocol predefines a first UE capability, which is used to determine whether the terminal device supports operation in the first mode. The specific value / specific value of the reported first UE capability can be a byte, character, string, bit value, etc. The reporting unit is preferably per UE, and secondly, per band.

[0565] The definition of a first UE capability includes at least one of the following:

[0566] Instruct the terminal to support the first mode;

[0567] The terminal indicates that it does not support the first mode;

[0568] Indicates whether the terminal supports the first mode;

[0569] Indicate that the terminal supports LPT;

[0570] The terminal indicates that LPT is not supported;

[0571] Indicate whether the terminal supports LPT;

[0572] Indicate that the terminal supports LPR;

[0573] The terminal indicates that it does not support LPR;

[0574] Indicate whether the terminal supports LPR;

[0575] Indicates that the terminal supports LPT and LPR;

[0576] The terminal indicates that it does not support LPT and LPR;

[0577] Indicate whether the terminal supports LPT and LPR;

[0578] The terminal is instructed to support switching between the first mode and the normal mode.

[0579] Indicates whether the terminal supports switching between the first mode and the normal mode.

[0580] The protocol predefines a second UE capability, which is used to determine the battery energy threshold for the terminal device to operate in the first mode. The specific value / specific value of the reported second UE capability can be a byte, character, string, bit value, etc. The reporting unit is preferably per UE, and secondly, per band.

[0581] The definition of a second UE capability includes at least one of the following:

[0582] Indicates the maximum battery energy threshold for the terminal device to operate in the first mode;

[0583] The minimum battery energy threshold for instructing the terminal device to operate in the first mode.

[0584] Furthermore, the energy threshold can be expressed as a percentage, or in absolute energy units.

[0585] The protocol predefines a third UE capability, which is used to determine the time when the terminal device switches from normal operating state to the first mode. The specific value / specific value of the reported third UE capability can be a byte, character, string, bit value, etc. The reporting unit is preferably per UE, and secondly preferably per band.

[0586] The definition of third-party UE capabilities includes at least one of the following:

[0587] The maximum duration for the terminal device to switch from normal working state to the first mode;

[0588] The minimum duration for instructing the terminal device to switch from normal working state to the first mode.

[0589] Furthermore, the duration can be expressed in absolute time units, such as 10 minutes. Alternatively, the duration can be expressed in relative time units, such as 10 time slots.

[0590] The protocol predefines a fourth UE capability, which is used to determine the time when the terminal device switches from the first mode to the normal operating state. The specific value / specific value of the reported fourth UE capability can be a byte, character, string, bit value, etc. The reporting unit is preferably per UE, and secondly, per band.

[0591] The definition of third-party UE capabilities includes at least one of the following:

[0592] The maximum duration for which the terminal device switches from the first mode to the normal working state;

[0593] The minimum duration for instructing the terminal device to switch from the first mode to the normal working state.

[0594] Furthermore, the duration can be expressed in absolute time units, such as 10 minutes. Alternatively, the duration can be expressed in relative time units, such as 10 time slots.

[0595] Optional embodiments

[0596] Based on network device configuration or the terminal device's own implementation, the terminal device can operate in a first mode. When operating in the first mode, the terminal device is in a low-power operating state. This low-power operating state includes, but is not limited to, sending uplink transmissions via LPT and / or receiving downlink transmissions via LPR. Furthermore, the network device can schedule the terminal device's uplink and / or downlink transmissions in the first mode.

[0597] Optionally, when the terminal device is in the first mode, the network device may send downlink signals to the terminal device through a specific channel, and / or may receive uplink signals sent by the terminal device through a specific channel.

[0598] Optionally, the first mode operates in at least one of the following RRC states: RRC_CONNECTED, RRC_INACTIVE, and RRC_IDLE.

[0599] The terminal device reports relevant UE auxiliary information for the first mode to the network device. The UE auxiliary information includes at least one of the following: low power information, low power warning information, remaining power available for entering the first mode, minimum duration of the first mode, maximum duration of the first mode, occasion for entering the first mode, and occasion pattern for entering the first mode.

[0600] The low battery information is used to indicate whether the UE is low on battery.

[0601] The power shortage warning information is used to indicate the time remaining until the power shortage state.

[0602] The remaining battery power information is used to indicate how much battery power is left, for example, expressed as a percentage, or differentiated by level.

[0603] The start time of the first mode is used to indicate the point in time when the UE can activate the first mode.

[0604] The termination time of the first mode is used to indicate the point in time when the UE can turn off the first mode.

[0605] The duration of the first mode is used to indicate the duration for which the UE can continuously keep the first mode enabled.

[0606] The occasion in the first mode refers to a continuous period of time during which the UE can be in the first mode.

[0607] The occurrence pattern of the first mode refers to the pattern of occurrence in the first mode. Optionally, the occurrence of the first mode has two states in the pattern: an enabled state and a disabled state. An enabled state occurrence means that the UE can be in the first mode within this occurrence. A disabled state occurrence means that the UE cannot be in the first mode within this occurrence.

[0608] The method for reporting UE assistance information includes at least one of the following:

[0609] Optional Example 1:

[0610] The terminal device periodically reports the UE assistance information, and the reporting period is configured by the network device. The network device instructs / configures the relevant reporting information through a first signaling. The first signaling includes, but is not limited to, at least one of the following: DCI signaling, RRC signaling, and MAC CE signaling.

[0611] Optional Example 2:

[0612] The terminal device reports the UE auxiliary information triggered by the network device. The network device instructs / configures the terminal device to report the information via a first signaling instruction. The first signaling instruction includes, but is not limited to, at least one of the following: DCI signaling, RRC signaling, and MAC CE signaling.

[0613] Optional embodiments

[0614] Based on network device configuration or the terminal device's own implementation, the terminal device can operate in a first mode. When operating in the first mode, the terminal device is in a low-power operating state. This low-power operating state includes, but is not limited to, sending uplink transmissions via LPT and / or receiving downlink transmissions via LPR. Furthermore, the network device can schedule the terminal device's uplink and / or downlink transmissions in the first mode.

[0615] Optionally, when the terminal device is in the first mode, the network device may send downlink signals to the terminal device through a specific channel, and / or may receive uplink signals sent by the terminal device through a specific channel.

[0616] Optionally, the first mode operates in at least one of the following RRC states: RRC_CONNECTED, RRC_INACTIVE, and RRC_IDLE.

[0617] After the UE exits the first mode, the terminal device actively reports to the network device. Specific methods include at least one of the following:

[0618] After the UE exits the first mode, it actively reports to the network device. Specifically, the UE reports / indicates first information, and based on the first information, the network device determines whether the UE has exited the first mode or has entered a normal operating mode. This information is carried by the uplink channel. The first information includes, but is not limited to, at least one of the following: battery level information, BSR, SR, CSI, and feedback information.

[0619] The network device receives the first information uploaded by the UE and determines that the UE has left the first working state.

[0620] This disclosure also provides an apparatus for implementing any of the above methods. For example, an apparatus is provided that includes units or modules for implementing the steps performed by the terminal in any of the above methods. Alternatively, another apparatus is provided that includes units or modules for implementing the steps performed by a network device (e.g., an access network device, a core network functional node, a core network device, etc.) in any of the above methods.

[0621] It should be understood that the division of units or modules in the above device is only a logical functional division. In actual implementation, they can be fully or partially integrated into a single physical entity, or they can be physically separated. Furthermore, the units or modules in the device can be implemented by a processor calling software: for example, the device includes a processor connected to a memory containing instructions. The processor calls the instructions stored in the memory to implement any of the above methods or to implement the functions of the units or modules in the above device. The processor can be, for example, a general-purpose processor, such as a Central Processing Unit (CPU) or a microprocessor, and the memory can be internal or external to the device. Alternatively, the units or modules in the device can be implemented in the form of hardware circuits. The functionality of some or all of the units or modules can be achieved through the design of these hardware circuits, which can be understood as one or more processors. For example, in one implementation, the hardware circuit is an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC). The functionality of some or all of the units or modules is achieved through the design of the logical relationships between the components within the circuit. In another implementation, the hardware circuit can be implemented using a programmable logic device (PLD). Taking a field-programmable gate array (FPGA) as an example, it can include a large number of logic gates. The connection relationships between the logic gates are configured through configuration files, thereby achieving the functionality of some or all of the units or modules. All units or modules of the above device can be implemented entirely through processor-called software, entirely through hardware circuits, or partially through processor-called software with the remaining parts implemented through hardware circuits.

[0622] In this embodiment, the processor is a circuit with signal processing capabilities. In one implementation, the processor can be a circuit with instruction read and execute capabilities, such as a Central Processing Unit (CPU), a microprocessor, a graphics processing unit (GPU) (which can be understood as a microprocessor), or a digital signal processor (DSP). In another implementation, the processor can implement certain functions through the logical relationships of hardware circuits. The logical relationships of the aforementioned hardware circuits are fixed or reconfigurable. For example, the processor is a hardware circuit implemented using an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or a programmable logic device (PLD), such as an FPGA. In a reconfigurable hardware circuit, the process of the processor loading a configuration document and configuring the hardware circuit can be understood as the process of the processor loading instructions to implement the functions of some or all of the above units or modules. Furthermore, it can also be a hardware circuit designed for artificial intelligence, which can be understood as an ASIC, such as a Neural Network Processing Unit (NPU), a Tensor Processing Unit (TPU), or a Deep Learning Processing Unit (DPU).

[0623] Figure 6A is a schematic diagram of the structure of the terminal proposed in an embodiment of this disclosure. As shown in Figure 6A, it includes:

[0624] The transceiver module is used to send first information to the network device. The first information is used to indicate a first capability. The first capability is a capability of the terminal related to a first working mode, wherein the power consumption of the terminal in the first working mode is less than a first value.

[0625] Optionally, the transceiver module is used to execute the "transceiver" related steps performed by the terminal in any of the above methods. The terminal further includes a processing module, which is used to execute the "processing" related steps performed by the terminal in any of the above methods.

[0626] Figure 6B is a schematic diagram of the network device proposed in an embodiment of this disclosure. As shown in Figure 6B, it includes:

[0627] The transceiver module is used to receive first information sent by the terminal. The first information is used to indicate a first capability. The first capability is a capability of the terminal related to a first working mode, wherein the power consumption of the terminal in the first working mode is less than a first value.

[0628] Optionally, the transceiver module is used to perform the "transceiver" related steps performed by the network device in any of the above methods. The network device further includes a processing module, which is used to perform the "processing" related steps performed by the network device in any of the above methods.

[0629] Figure 7A is a schematic diagram of the structure of the communication device 7100 proposed in an embodiment of this disclosure. The communication device 7100 can be a network device (e.g., access network device, core network device, etc.), a terminal (e.g., user equipment or the first device described above), a chip, chip system, or processor that supports the network device in implementing any of the above methods, or a chip, chip system, or processor that supports the terminal in implementing any of the above methods. The communication device 7100 can be used to implement the methods described in the above method embodiments; for details, please refer to the descriptions in the above method embodiments.

[0630] As shown in Figure 7A, the communication device 7100 includes one or more processors 7101. The processor 7101 can be a general-purpose processor or a dedicated processor, such as a baseband processor or a central processing unit (CPU). The baseband processor can be used to process communication protocols and communication data, while the CPU can be used to control communication devices (e.g., base stations, baseband chips, terminal devices, terminal device chips, DUs or CUs, etc.), execute programs, and process program data. The processor 7101 is used to invoke instructions to cause the communication device 7100 to execute any of the above methods.

[0631] In some embodiments, the communication device 7100 further includes one or more memories 7102 for storing instructions. Optionally, all or part of the memories 7102 may also be located outside the communication device 7100.

[0632] In some embodiments, the communication device 7100 further includes one or more transceivers 7103. When the communication device 7100 includes one or more transceivers 7103, the communication steps such as sending and receiving in the above method are performed by the transceivers 7103, and other steps are performed by the processor 7101.

[0633] In some embodiments, a transceiver may include a receiver and a transmitter, which may be separate or integrated. Optionally, the terms transceiver, transceiver unit, transceiver, transceiver circuit, etc., may be used interchangeably; the terms transmitter, transmitting unit, transmitter, transmitting circuit, etc., may be used interchangeably; and the terms receiver, receiving unit, receiver, receiving circuit, etc., may be used interchangeably.

[0634] Optionally, the communication device 7100 further includes one or more interface circuits 7104, which are connected to the memory 7102. The interface circuits 7104 can be used to receive signals from the memory 7102 or other devices, and can be used to send signals to the memory 7102 or other devices. For example, the interface circuits 7104 can read instructions stored in the memory 7102 and send the instructions to the processor 7101.

[0635] The communication device 7100 described in the above embodiments may be a network device or a terminal, but the scope of the communication device 7100 described in this disclosure is not limited thereto, and the structure of the communication device 7100 may not be limited by FIG. 7a. The communication device may be a standalone device or a part of a larger device. For example, the communication device may be: (1) a standalone integrated circuit IC, or chip, or chip system or subsystem; (2) a collection of one or more ICs, optionally, the IC collection may also include storage components for storing data and programs; (3) an ASIC, such as a modem; (4) a module that can be embedded in other devices; (5) a receiver, terminal device, smart terminal device, cellular phone, wireless device, handheld device, mobile unit, vehicle device, network device, cloud device, artificial intelligence device, etc.; (6) others, etc.

[0636] Figure 7B is a schematic diagram of the structure of the chip 7200 according to an embodiment of this disclosure. For cases where the communication device 7100 can be a chip or a chip system, the schematic diagram of the chip 7200 shown in Figure 7B can be referenced, but is not limited thereto.

[0637] Chip 7200 includes one or more processors 7201, which are used to invoke instructions to cause chip 7200 to perform any of the above methods.

[0638] In some embodiments, chip 7200 further includes one or more interface circuits 7202 connected to memory 7203. Interface circuits 7202 can be used to receive signals from memory 7203 or other devices, and can also be used to send signals to memory 7203 or other devices. For example, interface circuit 7202 can read instructions stored in memory 7203 and send those instructions to processor 7201. Optionally, terms such as interface circuit, interface, transceiver pin, and transceiver can be used interchangeably.

[0639] In some embodiments, chip 7200 further includes one or more memories 7203 for storing instructions. Optionally, all or part of the memories 7203 may be located outside of chip 7200.

[0640] This disclosure also proposes a storage medium storing instructions that, when executed on the communication device 7100, cause the communication device 7100 to perform any of the above methods. Optionally, the storage medium is an electronic storage medium. Optionally, the storage medium is a computer-readable storage medium, but not limited thereto; it may also be a storage medium readable by other devices. Optionally, the storage medium may be a non-transitory storage medium, but not limited thereto; it may also be a temporary storage medium.

[0641] This disclosure also provides a program product that, when executed by the communication device 7100, causes the communication device 7100 to perform any of the above methods. Optionally, the program product is a computer program product.

[0642] This disclosure also proposes a computer program that, when run on a computer, causes the computer to perform any of the above methods.

[0643] In the above embodiments, implementation can be achieved, in whole or in part, through software, hardware, firmware, or any combination thereof. When implemented in software, it can be implemented, in whole or in part, as a computer program product. The computer program product includes one or more computer programs. When the computer program is loaded and executed on a computer, all or part of the processes or functions described in the embodiments of this disclosure are generated. The computer can be a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, a computer network, or other programmable device. The computer program can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium or transferred from one computer-readable storage medium to another. For example, the computer program can be transferred from one website, computer, server, or data center to another via wired (e.g., coaxial cable, fiber optic, digital subscriber line (DSL)) or wireless (e.g., infrared, wireless, microwave, etc.) means. The computer-readable storage medium can be any available medium accessible to a computer or a data storage device such as a server or data center that integrates one or more available media. The available media may be magnetic media (e.g., floppy disks, hard disks, magnetic tapes), optical media (e.g., high-density digital video discs (DVDs)), or semiconductor media (e.g., solid-state disks (SSDs)).

[0644] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the units and algorithm steps of the various examples described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented in electronic hardware, or a combination of computer software and electronic hardware. Whether these functions are implemented in hardware or software depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of this disclosure.

[0645] Those skilled in the art will understand that, for the sake of convenience and brevity, the specific working processes of the systems, devices, and units described above can be referred to the corresponding processes in the foregoing method embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0646] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this disclosure, but the scope of protection of this disclosure is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in this disclosure should be included within the scope of protection of this disclosure. Therefore, the scope of protection of this disclosure should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A communication method characterized by comprising: The method is performed by a terminal, and the method comprises: sending, to a network device, first information, the first information being used to indicate a first capability, the first capability being a capability of the terminal related to a first working mode, wherein power consumption of the terminal in the first working mode is less than a first value.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein, The first capability comprises at least one of: The terminal supports the first working mode; The terminal does not support the first working mode; Whether the terminal supports the first working mode; The terminal supports sending a signal by using a first transmitter; The terminal does not support sending a signal by using the first transmitter; Whether the terminal supports sending a signal by using the first transmitter; The terminal supports receiving a signal by using a first receiver; The terminal does not support receiving a signal by using the first receiver; Whether the terminal supports receiving a signal by using the first receiver; The terminal supports sending a signal by using the first transmitter and receiving a signal by using the first receiver; The terminal does not support sending a signal by using the first transmitter and receiving a signal by using the first receiver; Whether the terminal supports sending a signal by using the first transmitter and receiving a signal by using the first receiver; The terminal supports switching between the first working mode and a second working mode; The terminal does not support switching between the first working mode and the second working mode; Whether the terminal supports switching between the first working mode and the second working mode; The terminal works at a maximum battery threshold value of the first working mode; The terminal works at a minimum battery threshold value of the first working mode; A maximum time length required for the terminal to switch from a second working mode to the first working mode; A minimum time length required for the terminal to switch from the second working mode to the first working mode; A maximum time length required for the terminal to switch from the first working mode to the second working mode; A minimum time length required for the terminal to switch from the first working mode to the second working mode; Wherein The first transmitter has a transmission power consumption less than a first value; The first receiver has a reception power consumption less than the first value; The terminal has power consumption greater than or equal to the first value in the second working mode.

3. The method of claim 1 or 2, wherein, The first capability is reported at a terminal granularity or at a band granularity; The first information is used to indicate any of: The first capability of the terminal; The first capability of at least one band of the terminal.

4. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The first information is used to determine a first configuration, the first configuration being a configuration related to the first working mode.

5. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The method further comprises: sending, to the network device, second information, the second information being used to determine a second configuration, the second configuration being used to configure the terminal to enter the first working mode and / or to leave the first working mode.

6. The method of claim 5, wherein, The second information comprises at least one of: information used to indicate whether the terminal is out of power; a time to the terminal being out of power; a first power range, the first power range being a power range in which the terminal needs to enter the first working mode; a first power level, the first power level being a power level in which the terminal needs to enter the first working mode. at least one alternative starting time of the first operation mode; at least one alternative ending time of the first operation mode; a minimum duration of the first operation mode; a maximum duration of the first operation mode; at least one alternative first time window, the first time window being used to indicate a time when the terminal is in the first operation mode; at least one alternative first pattern, the first pattern being used to indicate a time when the terminal is in the first operation mode and / or a time when the terminal is not in the first operation mode; at least one alternative first index, the first index being used to indicate a first time window; at least one alternative second index, the second index being used to indicate a first pattern.

7. The method of claim 5 or 6, wherein, The sending, to the network device, of the second information comprises at least one of the following: periodically sending the second information to the network device; a sending period of the second information being configured by the network device and / or being agreed by a protocol; sending, to the network device, the second information upon receiving a first signaling sent by the network device; the first signaling being used to trigger the terminal to send the second information.

8. The method of any one of claims 1-7, wherein, The method further comprises: entering the first operation mode based on a configuration of the network device, or autonomously determining to enter the first operation mode by the terminal; leaving the first operation mode based on a configuration of the network device, or autonomously determining to leave the first operation mode by the terminal.

9. The method of any one of claims 1-8, wherein, The method further comprises: sending, to the network device, third information by the terminal upon leaving the first operation mode, the third information being used to indicate that the terminal has left the first operation mode.

10. The method of claim 9, wherein, The third information comprises at least one of the following: a power headroom information; a buffer status report (BSR); a scheduling request (SR); channel state information (CSI); a first indication.

11. A communication method, comprising: The method is performed by a network device, and the method comprises: receiving first information sent by a terminal, the first information being used to indicate a first capability, the first capability being a capability of the terminal related to a first operation mode, wherein a power consumption of the terminal in the first operation mode is less than a first value.

12. The method of claim 11, wherein, The first capability comprises at least one of the following: the terminal supports the first operation mode; the terminal does not support the first operation mode; whether the terminal supports the first operation mode; the terminal supports sending a signal by using a first transmitter; the terminal does not support sending a signal by using the first transmitter; whether the terminal supports sending a signal by using the first transmitter; the terminal supports receiving a signal by using a first receiver; the terminal does not support receiving a signal by using the first receiver; whether the terminal supports receiving a signal by using the first receiver; the terminal supports sending a signal by using the first transmitter and receiving a signal by using the first receiver; the terminal does not support sending a signal by using the first transmitter and receiving a signal by using the first receiver; whether the terminal supports sending a signal by using the first transmitter and receiving a signal by using the first receiver; the terminal supports switching between the first operation mode and a second operation mode; the terminal does not support switching between the first operation mode and the second operation mode; whether the terminal supports switching between the first operation mode and the second operation mode; a maximum battery threshold at which the terminal operates in the first operation mode; a minimum battery threshold at which the terminal operates in the first operation mode; a maximum time duration required for the terminal to switch from the second operation mode to the first operation mode; a minimum time duration required for the terminal to switch from the second operation mode to the first operation mode; a maximum time duration required for the terminal to switch from the first operation mode to the second operation mode; a minimum time duration required for the terminal to switch from the first operation mode to the second operation mode; wherein a transmitting power consumption of the first transmitter is less than a first value; a receiving power consumption of the first receiver is less than the first value; a power consumption of the terminal in the second operation mode is greater than or equal to the first value.

13. The method of claim 11 or 12, wherein, the first capability is reported in a terminal granularity, or is reported in a band granularity; the first information is used to indicate any of the following: the first capability of the terminal; the first capability of at least one band of the terminal.

14. The method of any one of claims 11-13, wherein, the first information is used to determine a first configuration, the first configuration being a configuration related to the first operation mode.

15. The method of any one of claims 11-14, wherein, The method further comprises: receiving second information sent by the terminal, the second information being used to determine a second configuration, the second configuration being used to configure the terminal to enter the first operation mode and / or to leave the first operation mode.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein, The second information comprises at least one of the following: information used to indicate whether the terminal is out of power; a time to the terminal being out of power; a first power range, the first power range being a power range at which the terminal needs to enter the first operation mode; a first power level, the first power level being a power level at which the terminal needs to enter the first operation mode; at least one alternative starting time of the first operation mode; at least one alternative ending time of the first operation mode; a minimum duration of the first operation mode; a maximum duration of the first operation mode; at least one alternative first time window, the first time window being used to indicate a time at which the terminal is in the first operation mode; at least one alternative first pattern, the first pattern being used to indicate a time at which the terminal is in the first operation mode and / or a time at which the terminal is not in the first operation mode; at least one alternative first index, the first index being used to indicate a first time window; at least one alternative second index, the second index being used to indicate a first pattern. The receiving of the second information sent by the terminal comprises at least one of the following:

17. The method of claim 15 or 16, wherein, receiving the second information periodically sent by the terminal, a sending period of the second information being configured by the network device and / or being agreed by a protocol; sending first signaling to the terminal, and receiving the second information sent by the terminal; the first signaling being used to trigger the terminal to send the second information. The method further comprises:

18. The method of any one of claims 11-17, wherein, configuring the terminal to enter the first operation mode; configuring the terminal to leave the first operation mode. The method further comprises:

19. The method of any one of claims 11-18, wherein, ​ receiving third information, the third information being used for indicating that the terminal is detached from the first operation mode.

20. The method of claim 19, wherein, The third information comprises at least one of: power headroom information; buffer status report (BSR); scheduling request (SR); channel state information (CSI); a first indication. 21.A communication method for a communication system, the communication system comprising a terminal and a network device, the method comprising: sending, by the terminal, first information to the network device, the first information being used for indicating a first capability, the first capability being a capability of the terminal related to a first operation mode, wherein power consumption of the terminal in the first operation mode is less than a first value; receiving, by the network device, the first information sent by the terminal.

22. A terminal, characterized by comprising: a transceiver configured to send first information to a network device, the first information being used for indicating a first capability, the first capability being a capability of the terminal related to a first operation mode, wherein power consumption of the terminal in the first operation mode is less than a first value.

23. A network device, comprising: comprising: a transceiver configured to receive first information sent by a terminal, the first information being used for indicating a first capability, the first capability being a capability of the terminal related to a first operation mode, wherein power consumption of the terminal in the first operation mode is less than a first value.

24. A communications device, characterized by comprising: one or more processors; a memory coupled to the processors and storing instructions which when executed by the processors cause the communication device to perform the method of any one of claims 1-10 or claims 11-20.

25. A communication system, characterized by comprising a terminal configured to implement the method of any one of claims 1-10 and a network device configured to implement the method of any one of claims 11-20.

26. A storage medium, the storage medium storing instructions, wherein, when the instructions are run on the communication device, cause the communication device to perform the method of any one of claims 1-10 or claims 11-20.

27. A program product, characterized by comprising a computer program which when executed by a communication device implements the method of any one of claims 1-10 or claims 11-20.

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