Sensing method and apparatus

Abstract

A sensing method and an apparatus. A UE receives first information in a first cell, wherein the first information is used for configuring a first downlink reference signal. The first downlink reference signal is a downlink reference signal used by a plurality of cells, and the first cell belong to the plurality of cells. The first downlink reference signal is associated with a first uplink reference signal, wherein the first uplink reference signal is used for sensing. When a terminal moves among the plurality of cells, upon entering a new cell, the terminal can still send, on the basis of parameters determined on the basis of the first downlink reference signal in the original cell, the first uplink reference signal for sensing, and does not need to re-determine parameters for sending a first uplink sensing signal. Therefore, the measurement procedures of a terminal can be reduced, saving power consumption of the terminal.

Description

A sensing method and apparatus

[0001] Cross Reference to Related Applications

[0002] The present application claims priority to the Chinese Patent Application No. 202411002672.6, filed on July 24, 2024, and entitled "A sensing method and apparatus", the content of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present application relates to the field of communication and sensing, and in particular to a sensing method and apparatus. BACKGROUND

[0004] When sensing by using a base station, there is a problem that the coverage range is limited. In order to expand the sensing range, a terminal can be introduced to assist the base station to perform sensing. For example, the terminal sends a sensing signal, and the sensing signal can reach the base station after being reflected by a sensing target, and the base station performs sensing.

[0005] If the terminal assisting sensing is in a moving state, the terminal can send a sensing signal in the moving process. The sending parameter of the terminal for sending the sensing signal can be determined according to the measurement result of the downlink reference signal. The terminal can perform cell reselection in the moving process. When the terminal reselects to a new cell, the sending parameter determined in the original cell is no longer applicable to the new cell, and the terminal needs to measure the downlink reference signal in the new cell to determine the sending parameter, so as to send the sensing signal. It can be seen that this is large power consumption for the terminal. SUMMARY

[0006] Embodiments of the present application provide a sensing method and apparatus, which are used to reduce the power consumption of the terminal.

[0007] In a first aspect, a first sensing method is provided, which can be applied to a terminal-side device, for example, also referred to as a terminal device. The terminal device is, for example, a terminal device, or another device including a terminal device function, or a circuit, or a chip system (or a chip, for example, a modem chip, also referred to as a baseband chip, or a system on chip (SoC) chip or a system in package (SIP) chip containing a modem core, or another functional module capable of realizing the function of a terminal device, which is, for example, arranged in a terminal device. The method comprises: receiving first information in a first cell, the first information being used for configuring a first downlink reference signal, the first downlink reference signal being a downlink reference signal used by a plurality of cells, the first cell belonging to the plurality of cells, wherein the first downlink reference signal is associated with a first uplink reference signal, and the first uplink reference signal is used for sensing.

[0008] In the embodiments of the present application, the first downlink reference signal can be a downlink reference signal used by a plurality of cells, or it can be understood that the downlink reference signals of the plurality of cells are the same (for example, all are the first downlink reference signal). Therefore, when the terminal moves between the plurality of cells and enters a new cell, the terminal can still transmit the first uplink reference signal for sensing according to the parameters determined in the original cell, without having to re-determine the parameters for transmitting the first uplink sensing signal. Therefore, the measurement process of the terminal can be reduced, and the power consumption of the terminal can be saved. Moreover, the terminal can transmit the uplink reference signal without having to re-determine the parameters, and the transmission efficiency of the uplink reference signal can be improved.

[0009] In an optional embodiment, the method further comprises: transmitting the first uplink reference signal. For example, the terminal can transmit the first uplink reference signal in the first cell, and the transmission parameters of the first uplink reference signal can be determined according to the measurement of the first downlink reference signal by the terminal in the first cell. Alternatively, the terminal can have determined the corresponding parameters according to the measurement of the first downlink reference signal in another cell (which belongs to the plurality of cells), and therefore, the terminal can not have to measure the first downlink reference signal in the first cell, but can transmit the first uplink reference signal according to the parameters. Therefore, the measurement process of the terminal can be reduced, and the power consumption of the terminal can be saved.

[0010] In an optional implementation, the method further includes: performing cell reselection in the first cell to enter a second cell, the second cell belonging to the plurality of cells; and transmitting the first uplink reference signal according to a first parameter in the second cell, wherein the first parameter is determined according to the measurement of the first downlink reference signal in the first cell. If the terminal reselects to an enemy cell in the plurality of cells, the terminal does not need to measure the first downlink reference signal in the second cell, but can transmit the first uplink reference signal according to the first parameter. Thus, the measurement process of the terminal can be reduced, and the power consumption of the terminal can be saved.

[0011] In an optional implementation, the method further includes: receiving the first downlink reference signal in the first cell; determining the first parameter according to the measurement result of the first downlink reference signal; and transmitting the first uplink reference signal according to the first parameter in the first cell. For example, when the terminal needs to transmit the first uplink reference signal in the first cell, the terminal has not obtained the parameter for transmitting the first uplink reference signal (for example, the terminal has not measured the first downlink reference signal in other cells in the plurality of cells, or the measurement result of the terminal for the first downlink reference signal is invalid, etc.), the terminal can measure the first downlink reference signal in the first cell, determine the first parameter according to the measurement result, and then transmit the first uplink reference signal according to the first parameter.

[0012] In an optional implementation, the first parameter is used to indicate one or more of the following: transmission power; uplink timing information; or whether to transmit the first uplink reference signal. In addition, the first parameter can also indicate other parameters for transmitting the first uplink reference signal, which is not limited.

[0013] In an optional implementation, the first information is included in an RRC release message. Alternatively, the first information can also be included in other RRC messages or messages in other protocol layers.

[0014] In an optional implementation, the method further comprises: performing cell reselection in the first cell or the second cell to enter a third cell; receiving a second downlink reference signal and measuring the second downlink reference signal; determining a second parameter according to a measurement result of the second downlink reference signal, wherein the second downlink reference signal is different from the first downlink reference signal; and transmitting a second uplink reference signal according to the second parameter. If the terminal reselects to a cell that does not use the first downlink reference signal or uses a downlink reference signal different from the first downlink reference signal, the terminal no longer uses the first parameter obtained according to the first downlink reference signal, but can determine the parameter for transmitting the uplink reference signal by measuring the downlink reference signal in the third cell, and then transmit the second uplink reference signal according to the parameter. The terminal can use the original parameter or re-determine the parameter according to the support of the first downlink reference signal by the cell, so that the parameter for transmitting the uplink reference signal is more accurate.

[0015] In an optional implementation, the terminal determines that a value of the measurement result of the first downlink reference signal in the third cell is less than or equal to a first threshold; or, the third cell does not belong to the plurality of cells. For example, if the value of the measurement result of the first downlink reference signal in the third cell is small, it indicates that the terminal has moved out of the range of the plurality of cells (for example, the first downlink reference signal received by the terminal in the third cell actually comes from one or more of the plurality of cells), and therefore it is necessary to re-measure in the third cell to determine the parameter for transmitting the uplink reference signal. Or, if the third cell does not belong to the plurality of cells, it is necessary to re-measure in the third cell to determine the parameter for transmitting the uplink reference signal.

[0016] In a second aspect, a second sensing method is provided, which can be applied to a network side device, for example, also referred to as a network device. The network device is, for example, an access network device, or other device including the function of the access network device, or a circuit, or a chip system (or chip) or other functional module capable of realizing the function of the network device, for example, arranged in the network device. The access network device can be a non-ORAN architecture or an ORAN architecture; or the access network device can be a CU, a DU or a RU under the ORAN architecture. The access network device is, for example, located on the ground, or the access network device is, for example, a satellite, or located on a satellite. The method comprises: transmitting first information in a first cell, the first information being used to configure a first downlink reference signal, the first downlink reference signal being a downlink reference signal used by a plurality of cells, and the first cell belonging to the plurality of cells, wherein the first downlink reference signal is associated with a first uplink reference signal, and the first uplink reference signal is used for sensing.

[0017] In an optional implementation, the first information is sent in the first cell, including: the first information is sent by the access network device to the terminal in the first cell. For example, the access network device is an access network device of a non-ORAN architecture; or the access network device includes an RU, and the first information is sent by the RU to the terminal in the first cell; or the access network device is an RU, and the first information is sent by the RU to the terminal in the first cell. Optionally, the first information is sent by the CU to the DU, and the DU sends the RU.

[0018] In an optional implementation, the method further includes: receiving the first uplink reference signal. For example, the access network device is an access network device of a non-ORAN architecture; or the access network device includes an RU and / or a DU, and the access network device receives the first uplink reference signal from the UE through the RU, and / or the access network device receives the first uplink reference signal from the RU through the DU; or the access network device is an RU or a DU, and the RU receives the first uplink reference signal from the UE, or the DU of the access network device receives the first uplink reference signal from the RU.

[0019] In an optional implementation, the method further includes: sending the first downlink reference signal. For example, the access network device is an access network device of a non-ORAN architecture; or the access network device includes an RU and / or a DU, and the access network device sends the first downlink reference signal to the RU through the DU, or sends the first downlink reference signal to the terminal through the RU; or the access network device is an RU or a DU, and the DU of the access network device sends the first downlink reference signal to the RU, or the RU sends the first downlink reference signal to the terminal.

[0020] In an optional implementation, the first information is included in an RRC release message.

[0021] In an optional implementation, the method further includes: sending a second downlink reference signal at a third cell, the third cell not belonging to the plurality of cells; and receiving a second uplink reference signal at the third cell, the second uplink reference signal being determined according to the second downlink reference signal. For example, the access network device is a non-ORAN architecture access network device; or the access network device includes a RU and / or a DU, the access network device sends the second downlink reference signal to the RU through the DU, receives the second uplink reference signal from the RU through the DU, or the access network device sends the second downlink reference signal to the terminal through the RU, receives the second uplink reference signal from the terminal through the RU; or the access network device is a RU or a DU, the DU sends the second downlink reference signal to the RU, the DU receives the second uplink reference signal from the RU, or the RU as the access network device sends the second downlink reference signal to the terminal, the RU receives the second uplink reference signal from the terminal.

[0022] In an optional implementation, the method further includes: receiving second information, the second information being used for configuring the first downlink reference signal adopted by the plurality of cells. For example, the access network device is a non-ORAN architecture access network device; or the access network device includes one or more of a CU, a RU or a DU, the access network device receives the second information through the CU; or the access network device is a CU, the CU receives the second information. The second information is for example from a core network device.

[0023] The technical effects brought by the optional implementations of the second aspect can be referred to the introduction of the technical effects of the first aspect or the corresponding implementations.

[0024] In a third aspect, a third awareness method is provided, which can be applied to a network side device, for example, also referred to as a network device. The network device is for example an access network device, or other equipment including the function of the access network device, or a circuit, or a chip system (or chip) or other functional module capable of realizing the function of the access network device, for example, arranged in the access network device. The access network device can be a DU or a RU under the ORAN architecture. The access network device is for example located on the ground, or the access network device is for example a satellite, or located on a satellite. The method includes: receiving a first uplink reference signal at a first cell, the first uplink reference signal being used for awareness, the first uplink reference signal being associated with a first downlink reference signal, the first downlink reference signal being a downlink reference signal adopted by a plurality of cells.

[0025] In an optional implementation, the method further includes: sending first information to the terminal in the first cell, the first information being used to configure the first downlink reference signal. For example, the access network device is an RU, which can send the first information to the terminal, the first information being, for example, from a DU (e.g., the CU sends the first information to the DU).

[0026] In one optional implementation, the method further includes: transmitting the first downlink reference signal. For example, if the access network device is a DU, the DU can transmit the first downlink reference signal to the RU. Alternatively, if the access network device is an RU, the RU can transmit the first downlink reference signal to the terminal.

[0027] In one alternative implementation, the first information is included in the RRC release message.

[0028] In an optional implementation, the method further includes: transmitting a second downlink reference signal in a third cell, wherein the third cell does not belong to the plurality of cells; and receiving a second uplink reference signal in the third cell, wherein the second uplink reference signal is determined based on the second downlink reference signal. For example, the access network device is a DU, which can transmit a first downlink reference signal to an RU and can receive a second uplink reference signal from the RU. Alternatively, the access network device is an RU, which can transmit a first downlink reference signal to a terminal and can receive a second uplink reference signal from the terminal.

[0029] For the technical effects of the optional implementation methods of the third aspect, please refer to the introduction of the technical effects of the first aspect or corresponding implementation methods.

[0030] Fourthly, a fourth sensing method is provided, which can be applied to a network-side device, also known as a network device. Optionally, the network device is an SF, SMF, or LMF, etc. The network device is, for example, a core network device, or other device including core network device functions, or a circuit, or a chip system (or chip) or other functional module capable of implementing the core network device functions, and is, for example, disposed within the core network device. The method includes: sending second information, the second information being used to configure a first downlink reference signal, the first downlink reference signal being a downlink reference signal used by multiple cells, wherein the first downlink reference signal is associated with a first uplink reference signal, the first uplink reference signal being used for sensing.

[0031] In one optional implementation, sending the second information includes sending the second information to an access network device. For example, the access network device may be a non-ORAN architecture access network device. Alternatively, the access network device may be an ORAN architecture access network device, which may include a CU, and the second information may be sent to the CU included in the access network device. Alternatively, the access network device may be a CU, and the second information may be sent to the CU.

[0032] In one optional implementation, the method is applied to a sensing network element located in a core network device. Optionally, the sensing network element is an SF (Self-Sensing Network). For example, the sensing network element is located in the core network, where it can be an independent core network device or it can be integrated with other core network devices (e.g., integrated with an LMF).

[0033] For the technical effects of the optional implementation methods of the fourth aspect, please refer to the introduction of the technical effects of the first aspect or corresponding implementation methods.

[0034] Fifthly, an apparatus is provided. The apparatus can be a terminal-side device as described in any of the first aspects above. The apparatus possesses the functions of the aforementioned terminal-side device. For example, the apparatus can implement the functions described in the first aspect. For instance, the apparatus includes modules, units, or means corresponding to performing the operations involved in the first aspect. These modules, units, or means can be implemented through software, hardware, or a combination of software and hardware. The apparatus is, for example, a terminal device, or other device including terminal device functions, or a chip system (or chip or circuit) or other functional module capable of implementing the functions of a terminal device. This chip system or functional module is, for example, disposed within a terminal device. In one optional implementation, the apparatus includes a baseband device and a radio frequency device. In another optional implementation, the apparatus includes a processing unit (sometimes also called a processing module) and a transceiver unit (sometimes also called a transceiver module). The transceiver unit can implement both transmitting and receiving functions. When the transceiver unit implements the transmitting function, it can be called a transmitting unit (sometimes also called a transmitting module), and when the transceiver unit implements the receiving function, it can be called a receiving unit (sometimes also called a receiving module). The transmitting unit and the receiving unit can be the same functional module, which is called the transceiver unit. This functional module can realize the transmitting and receiving functions; or, the transmitting unit and the receiving unit can be different functional modules, and the transceiver unit is a general term for these functional modules.

[0035] In one optional implementation, the transceiver unit (or the transmitting unit) is configured to receive first information in a first cell, the first information being used to configure a first downlink reference signal, the first downlink reference signal being a downlink reference signal used by multiple cells, the first cell belonging to the multiple cells, wherein the first downlink reference signal is associated with a first uplink reference signal, the first uplink reference signal being used for sensing.

[0036] In an alternative embodiment, the device further includes a storage unit (sometimes also called a storage module), the processing unit being coupled to the storage unit and executing programs or instructions in the storage unit to enable the device to perform the functions of the terminal-side device described in the first aspect above.

[0037] Sixthly, an apparatus is provided. The apparatus can be a network-side device as described in any of the second to fourth aspects above. The apparatus possesses the functions of the aforementioned network-side device. For example, the apparatus is capable of implementing the functions described in any of the second to fourth aspects above. For instance, the apparatus includes modules, units, or means corresponding to the operations described in any of the second to fourth aspects above. These modules, units, or means can be implemented in software, hardware, or a combination of software and hardware. The apparatus is, for example, a network device, or other device including network device functions, or a chip system (or chip or circuit) or other functional module capable of implementing the functions of a network device. This chip system or functional module is, for example, disposed within a network device. The network device includes, for example, core network equipment and / or access network equipment. In one optional implementation, the apparatus includes a baseband device and a radio frequency device. In another optional implementation, the apparatus includes a processing unit (sometimes also called a processing module) and a transceiver unit (sometimes also called a transceiver module). For details on the implementation of the transceiver unit, please refer to the relevant description in the fifth aspect.

[0038] In one optional implementation, the transceiver unit (or the receiving unit) is configured to transmit first information in a first cell, the first information being used to configure a first downlink reference signal, the first downlink reference signal being a downlink reference signal used by multiple cells, the first cell belonging to the multiple cells, wherein the first downlink reference signal is associated with a first uplink reference signal, the first uplink reference signal being used for sensing.

[0039] In one optional implementation, the transceiver unit (or the receiving unit) is configured to receive a first uplink reference signal in a first cell, the first uplink reference signal being used for sensing, the first uplink reference signal being associated with a first downlink reference signal, and the first downlink reference signal being a downlink reference signal used by multiple cells.

[0040] In one optional implementation, the transceiver unit (or the receiving unit) is configured to send second information to the access network device, the second information being used to configure a first downlink reference signal, the first downlink reference signal being a downlink reference signal used by multiple cells, wherein the first downlink reference signal is associated with a first uplink reference signal, and the first uplink reference signal is used for sensing.

[0041] In an alternative embodiment, the device further includes a storage unit (sometimes also called a storage module), the processing unit being coupled to the storage unit and executing programs or instructions in the storage unit to enable the device to perform the functions of the network-side device described in any of the second to fourth aspects above.

[0042] A seventh aspect provides an apparatus comprising a memory and one or more processors. The memory stores part or all of a computer program or instructions necessary for implementing the functions described in the first aspect. The one or more processors are executable to carry out the computer program or instructions, such that, when executed, the apparatus implements the methods in any possible design or implementation of the first or fourth aspect.

[0043] In one possible design, the device may further include interface circuitry, wherein the processor is configured to communicate with other devices or components via the interface circuitry.

[0044] In one possible design, the device may also include the memory.

[0045] The aforementioned device may be a terminal, or a communication module in the terminal, or a chip in the terminal responsible for communication functions such as a modem chip (also known as a baseband chip) or a SoC or SIP chip containing a modem module.

[0046] Eighthly, an apparatus is provided, the apparatus comprising a memory and one or more processors. The memory is used to store part or all of a computer program or instructions necessary for implementing the functions involved in any of the second to fourth aspects described above. The one or more processors are executable to carry out the computer program or instructions, such that, when executed, the apparatus implements the methods in any possible design or implementation of any of the second to fourth aspects described above.

[0047] In one possible design, the device may further include interface circuitry, wherein the processor is configured to communicate with other devices or components via the interface circuitry.

[0048] In one possible design, the device may also include the memory.

[0049] The aforementioned device may be a network device, a communication module in a network device, or a chip in a network device that is responsible for communication functions, such as a modem chip (also known as a baseband chip) or a SoC or SIP chip that contains a modem module.

[0050] A ninth aspect provides a communication system including a network-side device, wherein the network-side device is configured to perform the method described in any one of the second to fourth aspects. For example, the network-side device may be implemented using the apparatus described in the sixth or eighth aspect.

[0051] Optionally, the communication system further includes a terminal-side device, wherein the terminal-side device is used to perform the method described in the first aspect above. For example, the terminal-side device can be implemented using the apparatus described in the fifth or seventh aspect.

[0052] In a tenth aspect, a computer-readable storage medium is provided for storing a computer program or instructions that, when executed, cause the methods performed by the terminal-side device or network-side device in the above aspects to be implemented.

[0053] In the eleventh aspect, a computer program product containing instructions is provided, which, when the computer program or instructions are run on a computer, enables the methods described in the above aspects to be implemented.

[0054] In a twelfth aspect, a chip system is provided, including a processor and an interface, the processor being configured to call and execute instructions from the interface to enable the chip system to implement the methods of the above aspects. Attached Figure Description

[0055] Figure 1A is a schematic diagram of the access network equipment structure under the ORAN architecture;

[0056] Figure 1B is a schematic diagram of one structure of the RAN chip;

[0057] Figures 2A and 2B are schematic diagrams of single-station sensing mode and dual-station sensing mode, respectively.

[0058] Figure 3A is a schematic diagram of the LoS region and NLoS region during base station sensing;

[0059] Figure 3B is a schematic diagram showing that terminal-assisted sensing can be used in the NLoS area;

[0060] Figures 4 and 5 are schematic diagrams of two network architectures applied in the embodiments of this application;

[0061] Figures 6 and 8 to 10 are flowcharts of several sensing methods provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0062] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of UE movement in an embodiment of this application;

[0063] Figure 11 is a schematic diagram of a device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0064] Figure 12 is a schematic diagram of another device provided in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0065] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this application clearer, the embodiments of this application will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0066] In this application embodiment, the number of nouns, unless otherwise specified, refers to "singular nouns or plural nouns," that is, "one or more." "At least one" means one or more, and "more than one" means two or more. "And / or" describes the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can mean: A exists alone, A and B exist simultaneously, or B exists alone, where A and B can be singular or plural. The character " / " generally indicates that the related objects before and after are in an "or" relationship. For example, A / B means: A or B. "At least one of the following" or similar expressions refer to any combination of these items, including any combination of single or plural items. For example, at least one of a, b, or c means: a, b, c, a and b, a and c, b and c, or a and b and c, where a, b, and c can be single or multiple.

[0067] The ordinal numbers such as "first" and "second" mentioned in the embodiments of this application are used to distinguish multiple objects, and are not used to limit the size, content, order, timing, priority, or importance of the multiple objects. Furthermore, the numbering of steps in the various embodiments described in this application is only to distinguish different steps and is not used to limit the order in which the steps are performed.

[0068] The following explanations of some terms or concepts used in the embodiments of this application are provided to facilitate understanding by those skilled in the art.

[0069] In this embodiment, the terminal device is a device with wireless transceiver capabilities, which can be a fixed device, a mobile device, a handheld device (e.g., a mobile phone), a wearable device, an in-vehicle device, or a wireless device (e.g., a communication module, a modem, or a chip system, etc.) built into the aforementioned devices. The terminal device is used to connect people, objects, machines, etc., and can be widely used in various scenarios, including but not limited to the following: sensing scenarios, cellular communication, device-to-device (D2D) communication, vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication, machine-to-machine / machine-type communications (M2M / MTC) communication, Internet of Things (IoT), virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), industrial control, self-driving, remote medical care, smart grid, smart furniture, smart office, smart wearables, smart transportation, smart city, drones, robots, and indoor commercial scenarios (such as mobile phone screen mirroring, file sharing, and mobile phone to VR glasses video transmission). When the terminal equipment is applied to V2X, it can also be called a V2X device, such as a smart car, digital car, unmanned car, driverless car, pilotless car, or automobile, self-driving car, or autonomous car, pure electric vehicle (EV), hybrid electric vehicle (HEV), range-extended electric vehicle (REEV), plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), new energy vehicle, or roadside unit (RSU). The terminal equipment can also be a device used in D2D communication, such as an electricity meter or water meter.

[0070] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the terminal device can also be a terminal device in an Internet of Things (IoT) system. IoT is an important component of the future development of information technology. Its main technical feature is to connect objects to the network through communication technology, thereby realizing an intelligent network of human-machine interconnection and object-to-object interconnection.

[0071] The various terminal devices described above, if located in a vehicle (e.g., placed inside or installed inside a vehicle), can all be considered in-vehicle terminal devices, also known as on-board units (OBUs). The terminal device of this application can also be an in-vehicle module, in-vehicle component, in-vehicle chip, or in-vehicle unit built into a vehicle as one or more components or units. The vehicle can implement the methods of this application through the built-in in-vehicle module, in-vehicle component, in-vehicle chip, or in-vehicle unit.

[0072] The terminal equipment may sometimes be referred to as UE, terminal, access station, UE station, remote station, wireless communication equipment, or user equipment, etc.

[0073] In this application embodiment, the device for implementing the terminal device function can be a terminal device, which can be a terminal device or a device capable of supporting the terminal device in implementing the function, such as a chip system. This device can be installed in the terminal device. In the technical solutions provided in this application embodiment, the example of a terminal device being used to implement the terminal device function is used to describe the technical solutions provided in this application embodiment.

[0074] The network devices in this application embodiment include, for example, access network devices (or access network elements) and / or core network devices (or core network elements). The access network devices are devices with wireless transceiver capabilities, used to communicate with the terminal devices. The access network devices include, but are not limited to, base stations (base transceiver stations, BTS, Node B, evolved Node B (eNodeB) / eNB, or the next generation Node B (gNodeB) / gNB), transmission reception points (TRPs), base stations evolved from the 3rd generation partnership project (3GPP), access nodes in wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi) systems, wireless relay nodes, wireless backhaul nodes, etc. The base stations can be: macro base stations, micro base stations, pico base stations, small cells, relay stations, etc. Multiple base stations can support networks using the same access technology or networks using different access technologies. A base station can contain one or more co-located or non-co-located transmission and reception points. The access network equipment can also be a radio controller, centralized unit (CU), and / or distributed unit (DU) in a cloud radio access network (CRAN) scenario. The access network equipment can also be a server, etc. For example, the network equipment in V2X technology can be a roadside unit (RSU). The following description uses a base station as an example to illustrate the access network equipment. A base station can communicate with a terminal device, or it can communicate with a terminal device through a relay station. A terminal device can communicate with multiple base stations in different access technologies. The core network equipment is used to implement functions such as mobility management, data processing, session management, policy and billing. The names of the equipment implementing core network functions may differ in systems using different access technologies; this application does not limit this.Taking the 5th generation (5G) mobile communication technology system as an example, the core network equipment includes, for example, access and mobility management function (AMF), session management function (SMF), policy control function (PCF), or user plane function (UPF), etc.

[0075] In a CU-DU architecture, or in an open RAN (ORAN) system, access network equipment can include one or more logical network elements such as a central unit (CU), a distributed unit (DU), a CU-control plane (CP), a CU-user plane (UP), or a radio unit (RU). CUs and DUs can be separate entities or included in the same network element, such as a baseband unit (BBU). RUs can be included in radio equipment or radio units, such as remote radio units (RRUs), active antenna units (AAUs), or remote radio heads (RRHs). One possible structure for access network equipment is shown in Figure 1A. In this structure, core network equipment and access network equipment can communicate via a backhaul link; within the access network equipment, CUs and DUs can communicate via a midhaul link, and DUs and RUs can communicate via a fronthaul link.

[0076] Alternatively, another architecture for the access network device can be seen in Figure 1B, which illustrates an access network device implemented using a chip, such as a RAN chip. The RAN chip may include a CU, DU, and RU. The CU can perform L2 and L3 functions, etc.; the DU can perform L1 functions and some L2 functions, etc.; and the RU can perform L1 computation and radio frequency (RF) digital functions, etc. The CU communicates with the core network device via a backhaul interface, which carries the traffic between the CU and the core network device. The CU may include a central processing unit (CPU) based on x86 or ARM architecture, and may include a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), graphics processing unit (GPU), or other accelerators. The CPU can communicate with the FPGA, GPU, or other accelerators via a peripheral component interconnect express (PCIe) interface.

[0077] The CU and DU communicate via a midhaul interface, which carries the traffic between the CU and DU. The DU may include an x86 or ARM architecture CPU, as well as FPGAs, GPUs, or other accelerators, which can communicate with the FPGA, GPU, or other accelerators via a PCIe interface.

[0078] The DU and RU communicate via a fronthaul interface, which carries the traffic between the DU and RU. If the access network equipment uses an integrated DU, the integrated DU can include the functions of both the DU and RU, and the RAN may no longer need to include a separate RU. The RU may include a RAN fronthaul processing unit, a digital processing unit, and an RF processing unit. The RAN fronthaul processing unit is implemented, for example, using an FPGA or an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC). The digital processing unit is implemented, for example, using an FPGA or an ASIC.

[0079] The RU can be connected to an antenna to communicate with the UE via the antenna.

[0080] In different systems, CU (or CU-CP and CU-UP), DU, or RU may have different names, but those skilled in the art will understand their meaning. For example, in an ORAN system, CU can also be called an open CU (O-CU), DU can also be called an open DU (O-DU), CU-CP can also be called an open CU-CP (O-CU-CP), CU-UP can also be called an open CU-UP (O-CU-CP), and RU can also be called an open RU (O-RU). For ease of description, this application uses CU, CU-CP, CU-UP, DU, and RU as examples in its embodiments. Any of the units among CU (or CU-CP, CU-UP), DU, and RU in the embodiments of this application can be implemented through software modules, hardware modules, or a combination of software modules and hardware modules.

[0081] The CU and DU can be configured according to the protocol layer functions of the wireless network they implement. For example, the CU can be configured to implement the functions of the Packet Data Convergence Protocol (PDCP) layer and above (such as the Radio Resource Control (RRC) layer and / or the Service Data Adaptation Protocol (SDAP) layer); the DU can be configured to implement the functions of protocol layers below the PDCP layer (such as one or more of the Radio Link Control (RLC) layer, Media Access Control (MAC) layer, or Physical (PHY) layer). As another example, the CU can be configured to implement the functions of protocol layers above the PDCP layer (such as the RRC and / or SDAP layers), and the DU can be configured to implement the functions of protocol layers below the PDCP layer (such as one or more of the RLC, MAC, or PHY layers).

[0082] The above CU and DU configurations are merely examples; the functions of the CU and DU can be configured as needed. For instance, the CU or DU can be configured to have more protocol layer functions, or only some protocol layer processing functions. For example, some RLC layer functions and protocol layer functions above the RLC layer can be placed in the CU, while the remaining RLC layer functions and protocol layer functions below the RLC layer can be placed in the DU. Furthermore, the functions of the CU or DU can be divided according to service type or other system requirements, such as by latency. Functions that require low latency can be placed in the DU, while functions that do not require low latency can be placed in the CU.

[0083] DU and RU can cooperate to implement the functions of the PHY layer. A DU can be connected to one or more RUs. The functions of DU and RU can be configured in various ways depending on the design. For example, a DU can be configured to implement baseband functions, and an RU can be configured to implement mid-RF functions. Another example is that a DU can be configured to implement higher-level functions in the PHY layer, and an RU can be configured to implement lower-level functions in the PHY layer, or to implement both lower-level and RF functions. Higher-level functions in the physical layer can include a portion of the physical layer's functions that are closer to the MAC layer, while lower-level functions in the physical layer can include another portion of the physical layer's functions that are closer to the mid-RF side.

[0084] In this application embodiment, the apparatus for implementing the functions of a network device can be referred to as a network apparatus. This network apparatus can be a network element, a network device, or an apparatus capable of supporting the network device or network element in implementing the function, such as a chip system. This apparatus can be installed within the network device. In the technical solutions provided in this application embodiment, the apparatus for implementing the functions of a network device is described as a network apparatus (for example, an apparatus for implementing the functions of an access network apparatus is an access network apparatus, and an apparatus for implementing the functions of a core network apparatus is a core network apparatus).

[0085] A sensing signal is a signal used to sense (or detect) a target (or object). Sensing signals can also be called detection signals, linear frequency modulated signals, radar signals, radar sensing signals, radar detection signals, or environmental sensing signals, etc. Sensing signals can be pulse signals or signals from wireless communication systems. For example, a sensing signal can be an orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) signal obtained by modulating a specific sequence on a subcarrier. This specific sequence can be any of the following sequences: Zadoff-Chu sequence (ZC sequence), pseudo-random sequence, or predefined sequence. Pseudo-random sequences include any of the following sequences: longest linear feedback shift register sequence (m-sequence) or Gold sequence. Predefined sequences can be, for example, random data symbols, such as random data symbols modulated by quadrature phase shift keying (QPSK) or quadrature amplitude modulation (QAM).

[0086] An echo signal is a signal generated when a sensed signal is reflected by a target. Both the echo signal and the sensed signal can reflect the parameters of the target. For example, the time delay of the echo signal relative to the sensed signal can reflect the distance of the target relative to the transmitter, and the Doppler shift of the echo signal relative to the sensed signal can reflect the velocity of the target.

[0087] Communication-sensing fusion signals, also known as synthetic-sensing fusion signals, synthetic signals, or integrated synthetic-sensing signals, are signals used for both communication and sensing. When used for communication, the fusion signal carries the communication data or reference signal sequence that needs to be transmitted between communication devices. When used for sensing, the fusion signal can be understood as being used to sense (or detect) targets.

[0088] For example, the signals used for sensing described herein (such as uplink reference signals mentioned later) may include communication signals and / or synergistic signals.

[0089] The target can be any tangible object in the environment that can reflect electromagnetic waves, such as mountains, forests, or buildings, and can also include mobile objects such as vehicles, drones, pedestrians, and terminal devices. The target can also be referred to as a sensing target, detection target, perceived target, detected target, perceived object, detected object, or sensed device, etc., and the embodiments of this application do not limit it.

[0090] For a long time, wireless sensing has been an independently developed technology. Sensing services are provided by various specialized sensing devices, such as conventional radar, lidar, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). In 5G and earlier communication systems, positioning was the sensing service that mobile communication systems could provide. In future mobile communication systems, general sensing services other than positioning will be integrated into the communication system, becoming a completely new function, thereby opening up entirely new services, such as high-precision positioning, environmental reconstruction, and gesture and motion recognition.

[0091] Among them, sensing network elements can reconstruct the environment of a target area through means such as lasers, radars, or base stations. For example, sensing network elements can reconstruct the real physical environment based on the measurement results reported by devices such as lasers, radars, or base stations. For example, based on the measurement results, sensing network elements can reconstruct environmental information using methods such as scattering polygons to characterize various scattering objects in the environment, such as walls and furniture (also known as sensing targets, targets, or target objects).

[0092] For sensing, based on the different senders and receivers of the sensing signal, sensing modes can be divided into two types: single-site sensing and dual-site sensing. Single-site sensing mode, also known as self-transmitting and self-receiving mode, single-end sensing mode, or monocentric sensing mode, refers to the same device transmitting the sensing signal and receiving the echo signal reflected from the target, as shown in Figure 2A, where both the transmitting and receiving devices are device 1. Dual-site sensing mode, also known as A-transmitting and B-receiving mode or self-transmitting and other-receiving mode, refers to different devices transmitting the sensing signal and receiving the echo signal reflected from the target, as shown in Figure 2B, where the transmitting device is device 2 and the receiving device is device 3. Figures 2A and 2B both use a vehicle as an example of the sensing target. For example, in Figure 2A, device 1 is a base station or UE. In single-site sensing mode, device 1 transmits the sensing signal, and device 1 receives the echo signal generated by the reflection, scattering, or diffraction of the sensing signal by a sensing target in the environment (e.g., the vehicle in Figure 2A) for environmental sensing. For example, in Figure 2B, device 2 is a base station or UE, and device 3 is a base station or UE. In the dual-station sensing mode, device 1 sends a sensing signal, and device 2 receives the echo signal generated by the reflection, scattering or diffraction of the sensing signal by a scatterer in the environment (such as a vehicle in Figure 2B) to perform environmental sensing.

[0093] With the rapid development of wireless communication technology, base stations, as core components of networks, are constantly expanding their functions and application scenarios. In recent years, the technology of using base stations for environmental perception has gradually attracted attention. This technology is based on the interaction between the base station and its surrounding environment, and achieves perception and monitoring of the surrounding environment by collecting and analyzing the signals received by the base station. When using base stations for perception, the perception area can be divided into a line-of-sight (LoS) area and a non-line-of-sight (NLoS) area, as shown in Figure 3A. As can be seen from Figure 2A, there are no obstacles obstructing the perception target and the base station in the LoS area; however, there are obstacles obstructing the perception target and the base station in the NLoS area. The base station can perceive targets in the LoS area through a single-site perception mode. However, due to the obstruction of obstacles, the base station may not be able to perceive targets in the NLoS area through a single-site perception mode. In this case, a UE can be introduced as an auxiliary, and a dual-site perception mode can be used to perceive targets in the NLoS area. For example, referring to Figure 3B, if the target is located in the NLoS region, the UE can send a sensing signal. This signal, after reflection, scattering, or diffraction by the target, can reach the base station (possibly after reflection from a reflector in between). The base station can then perform sensing based on the received signal. Alternatively, even in the LoS region, a dual-site sensing mode can be used for sensing; there are no restrictions on this. In Figures 3A and 3B, the target is illustrated using a vehicle as an example, but the actual target is not limited to this.

[0094] If the UE with assisted sensing is in a mobile state, it can transmit sensing signals during movement. The transmission parameters used by the UE to transmit the uplink reference signal can be determined based on the measurement results of the downlink reference signal. Additionally, the UE can perform mobility measurements during movement, and these results can be used for cell reselection. When the UE reselects a new cell, the transmission parameters determined in the original cell are no longer applicable to the new cell. The UE needs to remeasure the downlink reference signal in the new cell to determine the transmission parameters, thereby transmitting the uplink reference signal. This results in significant power consumption for the UE.

[0095] Therefore, in this embodiment, the first downlink reference signal can be a downlink reference signal used by multiple cells, or it can be understood that the downlink reference signals of multiple cells are the same (e.g., all are the first downlink reference signal). Thus, when the UE moves between these multiple cells, if it enters a new cell, it can still send the first uplink reference signal for sensing according to the parameters determined in the original cell, without having to redetermine the parameters for sending the first uplink sensing signal. This reduces the UE's measurement process and saves UE power consumption. Furthermore, since the UE can send the uplink reference signal without redetermining parameters, the transmission efficiency of the uplink reference signal can be improved.

[0096] Referring to Figure 4, which is a schematic diagram of a potential sensing network architecture, Figure 4 is based on a 5G core network (5G core, 5GC). The network architecture shown in Figure 4 can also be an application scenario of the embodiments of this application.

[0097] In the architecture shown in Figure 4, a new sensing function (SF) network element has been added, which can also be simply referred to as the sensing network element. This SF can be a device or component that provides sensing functionality to the network; it can also be called a sensing management function (SMF), or have other names. The SF can be deployed on the core network side or the RAN side; Figure 4 shows an example of deployment on the core network. In the network architecture shown in Figure 4, the SF can reuse the interfaces between the location management function (LMF) and other 5GC network elements such as the AMF, network exposure function (NEF), unified data management (UDM), network data analytics function (NWDAF), and PCF for sensing interaction. Sensing signaling between the SF and the radio access network (RAN) or UE can be transmitted through the AMF; sensing measurement data acquired by the RAN or UE can be transmitted to the SF via the control plane, for example, by using the reused long term evolution (LTE) positioning protocol (LPP) or new radio (NR) positioning protocol annex (NRPPa) protocol, or it can be transmitted through the user plane, forwarded to the SF via the UPF, or directly transmitted to the SF.

[0098] The newly added SF in this network architecture can realize basic sensing functions, such as sensing authorization, sensing control, sensing measurement data processing, or result output. Specifically, interfaces are set up and interaction is established between the SF and 5GC network elements such as AMF, NEF, UDM, NWDAF, PCF, LMF, and UPF, as defined below.

[0099] NS1: A new interface between SF and AMF, which can transmit sensing and control signaling. Additionally, this interface can also transmit sensing measurement data in scenarios where sensing measurement data is uploaded to the control plane.

[0100] NS2: A new interface between SF and NEF. This interface can transmit signaling messages between sensing network elements relayed through NEF and application functions (AF) on the service side, and at the same time open the sensing results to the AF.

[0101] NS3: A new interface between SF and UDM. This interface can be used for authentication or authorization, and to obtain UE-aware subscription information, service AMF information, or other information.

[0102] NS4: A new interface between SF and NWDAF. Through this interface, SF and NWDAF can jointly complete artificial intelligence (AI) processing related to perception services.

[0103] NS5: A new interface between SF and PCF. Through this interface, SF can transmit information such as sensing requirements, quality of service (QoS) requirements, or sensing results of sensing services to PCF. PCF can then make decisions to generate policy control and charging (PCC) policies related to sensing services.

[0104] NS6: A new interface between SF and LMF. Through this interface, SF can obtain location-related information, such as the sensing area, the RAN information of the sensing target, and the location information of the sensed UE.

[0105] NS7: A new interface between SF and UPF. Sensing measurement data can be directly transmitted from (R)AN to SF via UPF, or indirectly forwarded to SF via UPF. In scenarios where (R)AN performs sensing, forwarding via UPF can improve the functionality of UPF to support data transmission at the (R)AN granularity.

[0106] In addition to the newly added interfaces mentioned above, existing interfaces (such as N1, N2, N5, N8, N33, etc.) can also support the transmission of information related to sensing services, such as authentication information, sensing service type, sensing service quality requirements, sensing measurement data, or sensing results, etc.

[0107] Figure 4 illustrates an example where the SF (Sensitive Detection) is an independent device. Alternatively, the SF and LMF (Local Management Detector) can be co-located, meaning the network element handling sensing services and the network element handling location services can be the same. Alternatively, the SF can be co-located with other core network elements, such as the AMF (Auxiliary Location Detector). The LMF is the core network element in the 5GC that provides control plane positioning. It can calculate and feedback location information in the 5G network, providing functions such as positioning process management, UE capability acquisition, auxiliary data provision, and UE location estimation. Optionally, if the SF and LMF are co-located, the LMF and the gateway mobile location center (GMLC) can be functionally enhanced to support basic sensing functions. The GMLC can be the first network element within the operator's network to process sensing requests, performing privacy checks or authorization functions, routing sensing requests to the AMF, or performing LMF selection, etc.

[0108] For example, if the SF and LMF are co-located, an additional interface can be added between the LMF and GMLC to transmit information related to awareness services, such as adding an NL9 interface. Additionally, interfaces related to the LMF and GMLC (such as one or more of the following: NL1 interface between AMF and LMF, NL2 interface between AMF and GMLC, NL5 interface between NEF and GMLC, or NL6 interface between UDM and GMLC) can also support the transmission of information related to awareness services, as detailed below.

[0109] N33: The interface between AF and NEF, through which information such as the type of sensing business, business requirements, and sensing results can be transmitted.

[0110] NL5: The interface between NEF and GMLC, through which information such as the type of sensing business, business requirements, and sensing results can be transmitted.

[0111] NL6: The interface between GMLC and UDM, through which privacy inspection data can be transferred.

[0112] NL2: The interface between NEF and AMF, through which information such as the perceived business type, business requirements, and perceived results can be transmitted.

[0113] NL1: The interface between AMF and LMF, through which information such as perceived business type, business requirements, and perceived results can be transmitted.

[0114] NL9: A new interface between GMLC and LMF, through which information such as the type of sensing business, business requirements, and sensing results can be transmitted.

[0115] Referring again to Figure 5, which is a schematic diagram of another potential sensing network architecture based on 5GC, the network architecture shown in Figure 5 can also be another application scenario of the embodiments of this application.

[0116] In the network architecture shown in Figure 5, the SF (Sensitive Detection) is relatively independent of the existing core network elements. The SF does not need to interact with the core network elements, or only needs to perform minimal interaction. For scenarios where there is only a sensing requirement within a specific area, or scenarios where there is only a sensing requirement, this network architecture can provide sensing services without requiring 5GC control or only requiring some network elements to participate in control. Furthermore, by deploying the SF locally, sensing measurement data or results can remain within the campus, thus meeting the enterprise's requirements for the security and privacy of sensing measurement data or results, and reducing sensing latency. This network architecture is relatively simple, flexible, efficient, has few transmission nodes, and is easy to deploy. Optionally, this network architecture can support UE-related sensing requirements, and implementation schemes for functions such as authorization, mobility management, and billing can be considered as needed.

[0117] In this network architecture, the SF can directly establish a connection with the RAN node. Control plane sensing signaling and user plane sensing measurement data can be transmitted via the newly defined interface NS1. When the UE participates in sensing, control plane signaling can be forwarded to the SF via the AMF, and sensing measurement data can be transmitted via NS1. Furthermore, there can also be an interface between the SF and 5GC network elements (such as AMF, NEF, or NWDAF) to control the AF to provide sensing service requirements to the SF through core network functions. The interface between the SF and 5GC network elements is described below.

[0118] NS1: A new interface between the SF and (R)AN, which can transmit sensing control signaling or sensing measurement data. In one implementation, the SF can also be deployed on the RAN side; for example, the SF can be co-located with access network equipment (e.g., a base station), or the SF can be a standalone device within the access network.

[0119] NS2: A new interface that may be added between SF and AMF. This interface can receive awareness service requirements from UE, or transmit signaling between SF and other network elements in the core network, such as transmitting interaction messages between SF and UDM.

[0120] NS3: A potential new interface between SF and NEF. This interface can transmit signaling between SF and the service-side AF via NEF, and can also expose the sensing results to the AF. The interaction between SF and AF may not go through NEF. In actual deployment, NS2 and NS3 may be chosen as one of the two options. That is, the AF can send sensing service requests indirectly to SF or directly to SF (without NEF) via NS2 (NEF); or, the AF can send sensing service requests to SF via N33 (NEF) and NS2 (AMF).

[0121] NS4: A potential new interface between SF and NWDAF, through which SF and NWDAF can jointly perform intelligent analysis and prediction to generate perception results.

[0122] The technical solutions provided in this application can be applied to fourth-generation (4G) mobile communication systems, such as LTE systems, or to 5G systems, such as NR systems, or to next-generation mobile communication systems or other similar communication systems, such as 6G systems, or to existing satellite mobile communication technology systems. No specific limitations are imposed. For example, Figures 4 and 5 are based on 5GC. In addition, SF can also be deployed in other networks, such as 6G networks, or other future communication networks.

[0123] The embodiments of this application can be applied to the scenarios shown in Figure 2B, Figure 3B, Figure 4 or Figure 5, or can also be used in other scenarios, such as any scenario involving sensing services.

[0124] The method provided in the embodiments of this application is described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. In various embodiments of this application, the signal used to implement the sensing function or sensing service is referred to as a sensing signal. The sensing signal is transmitted through reflection, scattering, or diffraction, and the sensing device (e.g., a network device) can determine relevant characteristics of the sensing target based on the received sensing signal. For example, it can estimate time delay, Doppler, or angular spectrum information based on the received sensing signal to determine information such as the distance, angle, or velocity of the sensing target. Additionally, the network device can also send measurement results to the sensing network element, such as point cloud information, distance, angle, or velocity information of the sensing target. In the accompanying drawings corresponding to the various embodiments of this application, steps indicated by dashed lines are optional steps.

[0125] The various embodiments described herein can be applied to the network architectures shown in Figures 2B, 3B, 4, or 5. For example, the UE described in the various embodiments of this document can be device 2 shown in Figure 2B, and the access network device described in the various embodiments of this document can be device 3 shown in Figure 2B. As another example, the UE described in the various embodiments of this document can be the UE shown in Figures 3B, 4, or 5; the access network device described in the various embodiments of this document can be the network device shown in Figure 3B, or the (R)AN shown in Figure 4 or 5.

[0126] This application provides a first sensing method, please refer to Figure 6, which is a flowchart of the method.

[0127] S601, the access network device sends the first information. Correspondingly, the UE receives the first information.

[0128] The access network device can be the access network device corresponding to the first cell, or the access network device serving the first cell. If the access network device is an ORAN architecture access network device, the CU of the access network device can send the first information to the DU of the access network device, the DU can send the first information to the RU of the access network device, and the RU can then send the first information.

[0129] The first information can configure the first downlink reference signal. Upon receiving the first information, the UE can determine the cell-free reference signal for the multiple cells. The first downlink reference signal can correspond to multiple cells, or be a downlink reference signal used by multiple cells, or a downlink reference signal transmitted by multiple cells. It can also be understood that the downlink reference signals of these multiple cells are the same, for example, all being the first downlink reference signal. The first cell can belong to these multiple cells. The fact that all multiple cells use the first downlink reference signal can also be understood as the first downlink reference signal being a cell-decoupled downlink reference signal or a cell-independent downlink reference signal; for example, the first downlink reference signal is not a cell-level reference signal. For example, the first downlink reference signal can also be called a cell-free reference signal, a cell-detached reference signal, a multi-cell reference signal (MC-RS), or an area reference signal (Area RS), etc. The name is not limited; the following text uses the cell-free reference signal as an example. Optionally, the first downlink reference signal can be used for sensing, such as a sensing signal; or, the first downlink reference signal can be used for both sensing and communication, such as a sensing fusion signal. Optionally, the bandwidth of the first downlink reference signal can be less than or equal to 400MHz.

[0130] In this configuration, the cell-free reference signals of different cells are identical, for example, the sequences corresponding to the cell-free reference signals of different cells are identical, and / or the transmission resources used to transmit the cell-free reference signals of different cells are identical. These transmission resources may include time-domain resources and / or frequency-domain resources. For example, the plurality of cells includes a first cell and a second cell. The first cell can transmit downlink reference signal 1, and the second cell can transmit downlink reference signal 2. Both downlink reference signal 1 and downlink reference signal 2 are cell-free reference signals, and they are identical. The identicalness of downlink reference signal 1 and downlink reference signal 2 may include one or more of the following: the sequences corresponding to downlink reference signal 1 and downlink reference signal 2 are identical; the time-domain resources occupied by downlink reference signal 1 and downlink reference signal 2 are identical; or, the frequency-domain resources occupied by downlink reference signal 1 and downlink reference signal 2 are identical.

[0131] In this scenario, the first information can be transmitted in the first cell, and the UE can receive the first information in the first cell. For example, if the UE moves between these multiple cells, when the UE moves to a cell other than the first cell, that other cell can send information to the UE to configure the first downlink reference signal. Alternatively, since all the multiple cells use the first downlink reference signal, when the UE moves to a cell other than the first cell, that other cell does not need to configure the first downlink reference signal for the UE again.

[0132] The first information is used to configure the first downlink reference signal. For example, in one configuration method, the first information may include configuration information of the first downlink reference signal, such as configuration information A, which can be used to configure the first downlink reference signal. Optionally, the configuration information A may include one or more of the following: the frequency, transmission period, or transmission resources of the first downlink reference signal.

[0133] Optionally, the first information may also indicate that the cell-free reference signals of the multiple cells are the same, or that the multiple cells all use the first downlink reference signal, or that the multiple cells all transmit the first downlink reference signal. One way the first information indicates the multiple cells is, for example, by including the identifiers of the multiple cells. Another way the first information indicates the multiple cells is, for example, by including an area identifier that includes the multiple cells. For example, the area is the region comprised of the multiple cells. If the UE performs a reselection between these multiple cells, the UE can clearly determine that both the target cell and the original cell use the first downlink reference signal.

[0134] Optionally, the first information may be included in an RRC release message, which can be used to release the UE into an RRC disconnected state. Alternatively, the first information may also be included in other RRC messages, or in messages from other protocol layers.

[0135] Optionally, the core network equipment can configure cell-free reference signals for the multiple cells, allowing the core network equipment to configure the same cell-free reference signal for the multiple cells. The core network equipment can be, for example, an SF (this example uses SF as the core network equipment; alternatively, SF can be an access network device or a third-party device, etc. If SF is not the core network equipment, and SF configures the cell-free reference signals for the multiple cells, the steps performed by the "core network equipment" in this embodiment can be replaced by the "SF") or an SMF, etc., without specific limitations. For example, the core network equipment can send second information, which can be used to configure cell-free reference signals for the multiple cells. Correspondingly, the access network equipment corresponding to the multiple cells receives the second information, thereby configuring the cell-free reference signal for the multiple cells, and can also send first information to the UE. The access network equipment corresponding to the multiple cells can be the same access network equipment or different access network equipment. See Figure 1A for example. The core network equipment sends the second information to the access network equipment via the backhaul link. The baseband unit in the access network equipment processes the second information to generate the first information. In the BBU, the CU sends the first information to the DU via the midhaul link, and the DU then sends the first information to the RU via the fronthaul link. The RU sends the first information to the UE via the air interface. The DU and RU can be co-located or not. The transmission of the first information can be performed at layer 3 (L3). The DU and RU can cooperate to implement physical layer functions. One DU can be connected to one or more RUs. The functions of the DU and RU can be configured in various ways according to the design.

[0136] Alternatively, the cell-free reference signals for these multiple cells can be predefined by the protocol. Or, the cell-free reference signals for these multiple cells can be determined through negotiation among these multiple cells.

[0137] Optionally, the cell-free reference signal can be used for sensing. For example, the cell-free reference signal can be a reference signal dedicated to sensing. If a UE is performing a sensing function, it can measure the cell-free reference signal. However, if a UE is not performing a sensing function, it can measure a cell-level reference signal instead of the cell-free reference signal, such as the synchronization signal and physical broadcast channel (PBCH) block (SSB) or the channel state information reference signal (CSI-RS).

[0138] For a given cell, an access network device can configure a cell-free reference signal and / or a non-cell-free reference signal for that cell. For example, for a first cell, the access network device can configure a cell-free reference signal and / or a non-cell-free reference signal. Taking the configuration of cell-free and non-cell-free reference signals for a first cell as an example, the access network device can send third information. This third information can be used to configure the non-cell-free reference signal of the first cell, such as configuring the cell-specific reference signal of the first cell. Upon receiving the third information, the UE can determine the cell-specific reference signal of the first cell. The cell-specific reference signal of the first cell may include, for example, the SSB and / or CSI-RS of the first cell. For example, the access network device can send the third information in the first cell. Optionally, the third information and the first information can be included in the same message, or they can be included in different messages. Alternatively, the cell-specific reference signal of the first cell may not be configured by the access network device, but rather predefined by the protocol.

[0139] If the access network device is an ORAN architecture access network device, the processing procedure can be referred to Figure 1A. The baseband unit in the access network device can generate third information. In the BBU, the CU sends the third information to the DU through the midhaul link, and then the DU sends the third information to the RU through the fronthaul link. The RU sends the third information to the UE through the air interface. The DU and RU can be co-located or not. The transmission of the third information can be performed at layer 3. Therefore, the access network device in S601 can be a complete access network device (e.g., including one or more of CU, DU, or RU, or a non-ORAN architecture access network device), or it can be CU, DU, or RU.

[0140] For example, for a UE performing a sensing function, the access network device can send a first piece of information to the UE. Optionally, it can send a third piece of information to the UE, or it can choose not to send a second piece of information. For a UE not performing a sensing function, the access network device can send a third piece of information to the UE, and optionally, it can choose not to send the first piece of information. Therefore, a UE performing a sensing function can utilize cell-free reference signals to perform sensing; for example, sending a first uplink reference signal is one such action. A UE performing a sensing function can also utilize cell-free reference signals to perform communication functions, or it can utilize cell-specific reference signals to perform communication functions. A UE not performing a sensing function can utilize cell-specific reference signals to perform communication functions, but not cell-free reference signals. These communication functions may include, for example, cell reselection.

[0141] Optionally, the UE can perform measurements in the first cell. For example, the UE can receive a first downlink reference signal in the first cell; the UE measures the first downlink reference signal and obtains a measurement result, for example, called measurement result A. The UE can determine a first parameter based on measurement result A, which is a parameter used to transmit an uplink reference signal. This uplink reference signal is, for example, a channel sounding reference signal (SRS), or it could be other uplink reference signals. Optionally, the first information and / or the fourth information can also indicate that the first uplink reference signal is associated with the first downlink reference signal, or indicate that the configuration information of the first uplink reference signal is associated with the first downlink reference signal, or indicate that the configuration information of the first uplink reference signal is associated with the configuration information of the first downlink reference signal, or indicate that the configuration information of the first uplink reference signal is associated with the configuration information of the first downlink reference signal. The following text uses the example of the first information and / or the fourth information indicating that the first uplink reference signal is associated with the first downlink reference signal. The fourth information will be introduced later. In this embodiment, the first uplink reference signal is associated with the first downlink reference signal. This may include the fact that parameters for transmitting the first uplink reference signal can be determined based on the first downlink reference signal or based on measurement results of the first downlink reference signal. Based on this indication, the UE can determine the parameters for transmitting the first uplink reference signal based on measurement results of the first downlink reference signal (e.g., measurement result A), for example, by determining them as a first parameter.

[0142] Specifically, if the access network device corresponding to the first cell is an ORAN-based access network device, the first downlink reference signal can be sent from the DU of the access network device to the RU, and then transmitted by the RU through the air interface. Therefore, the access network device corresponding to the first cell can be a complete access network device (e.g., including one or more of CU, DU, or RU, or a non-ORAN-based access network device), or it can be either a DU or an RU.

[0143] Optionally, the first parameter may indicate one or more of the following: transmit power, path loss information, uplink transmit timing, or whether to transmit a first uplink reference signal. Optionally, the first transmit parameter may also include other parameters related to the uplink reference signal, such as beam information used to transmit the uplink reference signal, without limitation.

[0144] The transmission power can be the power used to transmit the first uplink reference signal.

[0145] This path loss information can indicate the uplink or downlink path loss between the UE and the access network equipment.

[0146] The uplink transmission timing can be used to determine when the UE transmits the first uplink reference signal.

[0147] If the first parameter indicates whether to transmit the first uplink reference signal, the UE can determine whether to transmit the first uplink reference signal accordingly. For example, if the value of measurement result A is small, such as less than or equal to a second threshold, the first parameter may indicate not to transmit the first uplink reference signal. Alternatively, if the value of measurement result A is large, such as greater than the second threshold, the first parameter may indicate to transmit the first uplink reference signal. Optionally, the measurement results described in various embodiments of this application may include, for example, reference signal receiving power (RSRP). Wherein, if the value of measurement result A is small, it indicates poor channel conditions. In this case, if the UE transmits the first uplink reference signal, the transmission quality may be poor, so the UE may not transmit the first uplink reference signal. Conversely, if the value of measurement result A is large, it indicates good channel conditions, so the UE may transmit the first uplink reference signal.

[0148] The UE determines the first parameter, and optionally, it can send a first uplink reference signal in the first cell based on the first parameter.

[0149] Optionally, the first uplink reference signal can be configured by the access network device. For example, the access network device can send fourth information, which can be used to configure the first uplink reference signal. For example, if the access network device sends the fourth information in the first cell, the UE can receive the fourth information in the first cell. Upon receiving the fourth information, the UE can determine the first uplink reference signal. For example, the fourth information may include configuration information for the first uplink reference signal, which can be called configuration information A. This configuration information A can be used to configure the first uplink reference signal. Taking the first uplink reference signal as an example, this configuration information A can be SRS configuration information. If the access network device is an ORAN architecture access network device, the transmission process of the fourth information can refer to the description of the transmission process of the third information.

[0150] Optionally, the fourth information and the first information can be the same information, in which case the first information can be used to configure the first uplink reference signal and the first downlink reference signal. Alternatively, the fourth information and the first information can also be different information. If the first information and the fourth information are different, they can be included in the same message or in different messages.

[0151] Optionally, the method may further include S602, whereby the UE performs cell reselection in the first cell and enters the second cell. Optionally, the UE may be in a radio resource control (RRC) disconnected state, which may include, for example, an RRC inactive state or an RRC idle state.

[0152] The UE can be in a mobile state. During this movement, the UE can perform mobility measurements. For example, the measurement performed by the UE in the first cell as described in S601 can be a mobility measurement. Mobility measurement refers to the process of monitoring and evaluating the location changes of a moving UE during its movement within the network. Mobility measurements can be used to ensure that the UE can smoothly reselect between different access network devices or different cells. For example, through mobility measurements, the network can dynamically adjust network resource allocation and instruct the UE to perform cell reselection based on the UE's location and / or status, thereby ensuring the UE's communication connection quality and service continuity. For example, the measurement results of this mobility measurement can be used by the UE to perform cell reselection, etc.

[0153] Mobility measurement may involve the access network device sending a downlink reference signal, which the UE can measure during movement. The UE can then send the measurement results to the access network device, which can use this information to determine whether the UE should perform cell reselection, or vice versa. Mobility measurement may involve measuring multiple parameters, such as signal strength, signal delay, movement speed, or direction of movement.

[0154] For example, the UE performs mobility measurement in the first cell and sends the measurement result (e.g., measurement result B) to the access network device. The access network device sends a first indication message to the UE based on the measurement result A, which instructs the UE to perform cell reselection. Upon receiving the first indication message, the UE can execute S602. Alternatively, if the UE performs mobility measurement in the first cell and determines to perform cell reselection based on the obtained measurement result B, the UE can execute S602. Referring to Figure 7, for example, the UE moves from cell 4 to cell 7 according to the arrow direction in Figure 7. During this movement, the UE can perform mobility measurement. During the movement, the UE can reselect from cell 4 to cell 1 based on the measurement result, and then reselect from cell 1 to cell 7 based on the measurement result.

[0155] Measurement result B can be measurement result A, or it can be another measurement result obtained in the first cell besides measurement result A.

[0156] Optionally, the method may further include S603, whereby the UE transmits a first uplink reference signal in the second cell according to a first parameter; correspondingly, the access network device receives the first uplink reference signal in the second cell. The first uplink reference signal may be, for example, an SRS, or other uplink reference signals. The first uplink reference signal can be used for sensing. In S603, the access network device is either the access network device corresponding to the second cell or the access network device serving the second cell. The access network device corresponding to the first cell and the access network device corresponding to the second cell may be the same access network device or different access network devices. This embodiment of the application takes the example where the access network device corresponding to the first cell and the access network device corresponding to the second cell are the same access network device. The first uplink reference signal received by the access network device may be the signal after the first uplink reference signal transmitted by the UE has been reflected, scattered, or diffracted by a sensing target in the environment; for example, the first uplink reference signal received by the access network device may be the echo signal of the first uplink reference signal transmitted by the UE. Optionally, the first uplink reference signal received by the access network device and the first uplink reference signal transmitted by the UE are the same signal. The only difference is that the transmission path of the first uplink reference signal may have changed after reflection, scattering, or diffraction by the sensing target. Alternatively, it can be understood that the UE transmits the first uplink reference signal, and the access network device also receives the first uplink reference signal; however, the first uplink reference signal received by the access network device is the first uplink reference signal after reflection, scattering, or diffraction by the sensing target.

[0157] Optionally, the second cell may configure a first uplink reference signal for the UE. Alternatively, since the first cell has already configured a first uplink reference signal for the UE, the second cell may not need to configure a first uplink reference signal for the UE again.

[0158] The second cell is a cell that uses a cell-free reference signal. For example, multiple cells may use the first downlink reference signal, including the first cell and the second cell. Since the first cell has already configured the first downlink reference signal for the UE, the second cell does not need to configure the first downlink reference signal for the UE again.

[0159] After the UE reselects to the second cell, it can transmit an uplink reference signal, such as a first uplink reference signal, in the second cell. The UE needs to refer to relevant parameters when transmitting the first uplink reference signal. Traditionally, the UE measures the first downlink reference signal in the second cell to determine the parameters used to transmit the first uplink reference signal, and then transmits the first uplink reference signal based on those parameters. However, this application provides a cell-free reference signal, which is the same for both the first and second cells—the first downlink reference signal. The UE has already measured the first downlink reference signal and determined the first parameters in the first cell; even if the UE measures in the second cell, it is measuring the second downlink reference signal. Since the first and second downlink reference signals are the same, the parameters determined by the UE based on the second downlink reference signal may be the same as or similar to the first parameters. Therefore, in this application embodiment, the UE can directly use the first parameters to transmit the first uplink reference signal in the second cell without having to perform measurements again. This saves the UE's measurement power consumption and extends the UE's usage time and lifespan. Furthermore, since the first uplink reference signal can be transmitted without measurement in the second cell, the transmission efficiency of the uplink reference signal is also improved.

[0160] After receiving the first uplink reference signal, the access network device can perform sensing based on the first uplink reference signal. For example, the access network device can obtain sensing results by measuring the uplink reference signal. The sensing results may include one or more parameters, such as the speed, position, and distance of the sensed target. Optionally, the access network device can also send the sensing results to the SF, enabling the SF to further perform sensing. For example, the SF can reconstruct the sensed target based on the sensing results.

[0161] In this embodiment, the first downlink reference signal can be a downlink reference signal used by multiple cells, or it can be understood that the downlink reference signals of multiple cells are the same (e.g., all are the first downlink reference signal). Therefore, when the UE moves between these multiple cells, if it enters a new cell, it can still send the first uplink reference signal for sensing according to the parameters determined in the original cell, without having to redetermine the parameters for sending the first uplink sensing signal. This reduces the UE's measurement process and saves UE power consumption. Moreover, the UE can send the uplink reference signal without redetermining the parameters, which improves the transmission efficiency of the uplink reference signal.

[0162] This application provides a second sensing method, which can be an example of the sensing method described in the embodiment shown in FIG6. Please refer to FIG8, which is a flowchart of the method.

[0163] S801. The UE interacts with access network equipment and core network equipment to exchange the UE's capability information.

[0164] For example, the UE can send its capability information to the access network device and / or to the core network device. This capability information can indicate the UE's sensing capabilities, such as whether the UE supports sending sensing signals in RRC disconnected mode. The core network device can be, for example, an SF (this article uses SF as an example; alternatively, SF could be an access network device or a third-party device, etc.) or an SMF, or other core network devices.

[0165] The UE and the network may not need to exchange the UE's capability information. For example, access network equipment and / or core network equipment can obtain the UE's capability information through other means. Therefore, S801 is an optional step.

[0166] S802. The core network device sends a first request message to the access network device. Correspondingly, the access network device receives the first request message.

[0167] The first request message may request the access network device to configure an uplink reference signal for the UE. This uplink reference signal may be, for example, an SRS, or other uplink reference signals. Optionally, the first request message may also include fifth information, which can be used to configure the first uplink reference signal. The fifth information may be, for example, uplink reference signal configuration information recommended by the core network device. For example, the core network device may determine the fifth information based on one or more factors such as the UE's capability information, the needs of perceived services, or the resource usage of some or all UEs served by the core network device.

[0168] Optionally, the first request message may also request configuration information of the uplink reference signal determined by the access network device.

[0169] Optionally, the first request message may also include second information, which can be used to configure cell-free reference signals for multiple cells, as described in the embodiment shown in Figure 6. Alternatively, the second and fifth information may be included in different messages, without limitation.

[0170] The first request message may also be called a perception request message or a perception information request message, and there are no restrictions on the name.

[0171] S803. The access network device sends the fourth information to the UE. Correspondingly, the UE receives the fourth information.

[0172] The fourth information can be used to configure the first uplink reference signal. For an introduction to the first uplink reference signal, please refer to the embodiment shown in Figure 6. For example, the first request message includes the fifth information, and the fourth information can be obtained from the fifth information. Alternatively, the first request message may not include the fourth information, and the fifth information can be determined by the access network device itself. For example, the access network device can determine the fourth information based on one or more factors such as the UE's capability information, the needs of perceived services, or the resource usage of some or all UEs served by the access network device.

[0173] Optionally, the fourth information can also be used to configure the first downlink reference signal. The first downlink reference signal is, for example, a cell-free reference signal, as described in the embodiment shown in Figure 6.

[0174] The fourth information is both the first information described in the embodiment shown in Figure 6 and the fourth information described in the embodiment shown in Figure 6. In this application embodiment, the first information and the fourth information are the same information.

[0175] Optionally, the fourth information may also indicate that multiple cells use the first downlink reference signal, for which the relevant description of the first information can be found in the embodiment shown in Figure 6.

[0176] S804. The access network device sends a first response message to the core network device. Correspondingly, the core network device receives the first response message. This first response message can be a response to the first request message in S802. The first response message may also be called a sensing response message or a sensing information response message, etc., and there is no limitation on the name.

[0177] Optionally, if the first request message requests to obtain the configuration information of the uplink reference signal determined by the access network device, the first response message may include the fourth information, or include the configuration information of the first uplink reference signal in the fourth information.

[0178] Optionally, if the core network device receives the configuration information (or fourth information) of the first uplink reference signal, it can send the configuration information (or fourth information) of the first uplink reference signal to at least one access network device other than the access network device, so that the at least one access network device can also participate in sensing.

[0179] S805, the UE sends a first uplink reference signal. Correspondingly, the access network equipment receives the first uplink reference signal.

[0180] In this scenario, the UE is camped in the first cell, and the fourth information corresponds to the first cell. Therefore, the UE can perform mobility measurement in the first cell and obtain the measurement result. This measurement result is, for example, called measurement result A. The UE can determine a first parameter based on measurement result A. The first parameter is a parameter used to transmit a first uplink reference signal. In S805, the UE can transmit the first uplink reference signal based on the first parameter.

[0181] The access network device can perform sensing based on a first uplink reference signal. For example, the access network device can obtain sensing results by measuring the first uplink reference signal. The sensing results may include one or more parameters, such as the speed, position, and distance of the sensed target. Optionally, the access network device can also send the sensing results to the SF, enabling the SF to further perform sensing. For example, the SF can reconstruct the sensed target based on the sensing results.

[0182] Optionally, if the core network device sends configuration information for a first uplink reference signal to at least one access network device, then in addition to the access network device being able to receive the first uplink reference signal, the at least one access network device can also receive the first uplink reference signal. The at least one access network device can also perform sensing based on the first uplink reference signal. Optionally, the at least one access network device can also send the sensing results to the SF, allowing the SF to integrate the sensing results from multiple access network devices to further perform sensing, thereby improving sensing accuracy.

[0183] S806: The UE performs cell reselection in the first cell and enters the second cell.

[0184] For more information on S806, please refer to S602 of the embodiment shown in FIG6.

[0185] S807. The UE transmits a first uplink reference signal in the second cell according to the first parameters. Correspondingly, the access network equipment receives the first uplink reference signal in the second cell.

[0186] This access network device is the access network device corresponding to the second cell. The access network device corresponding to the first cell and the access network device corresponding to the second cell can be the same access network device, or they can be different access network devices. Figure 8 shows an example where the access network device corresponding to the first cell and the access network device corresponding to the second cell are the same access network device.

[0187] For more information on S807, please refer to S602 of the embodiment shown in FIG6.

[0188] This application provides a cell-free reference signal. After the UE reselects from the first cell to the second cell, it can still transmit the first uplink reference signal for sensing according to the first parameters determined in the first cell, without having to re-determine the parameters. Therefore, the UE can reduce the downlink reference signal measurement process in the second cell, saving UE power consumption. Moreover, the UE can transmit the uplink reference signal without re-determining the parameters, which can improve the transmission efficiency of the uplink reference signal.

[0189] This application provides a third sensing method, please refer to Figure 9, which is a flowchart of the method.

[0190] S901. The UE performs cell reselection in the first or second cell and enters the third cell. Optionally, the UE may be in an RRC disconnected state, which may include, for example, an RRC inactive state or an RRC idle state.

[0191] The UE can be in a mobile state. During mobility, the UE can perform mobility measurements. For example, the UE performs a mobility measurement in a second cell and sends the measurement result (e.g., measurement result C) to the access network device. The access network device sends a second indication message to the UE based on the measurement result C, which instructs the UE to perform cell reselection. Upon receiving the second indication message, the UE can execute S901. Alternatively, the UE performs a mobility measurement in either the first or second cell, and determines to perform cell reselection based on the obtained measurement result C, in which case the UE can execute S901. Here, the access network device can be the access network device corresponding to the first or second cell.

[0192] The first cell in this embodiment is, for example, the same cell as the first cell in the embodiment shown in FIG. 6, and the second cell in this embodiment is, for example, the same cell as the second cell in the embodiment shown in FIG. 6. For example, this embodiment can be combined with the embodiment shown in FIG. 6. For example, the UE can execute this embodiment in the first cell of the embodiment shown in FIG. 6. Alternatively, the UE can execute this embodiment in the second cell of the embodiment shown in FIG. 6. Taking the UE reselecting from the second cell to the third cell as an example, refer to the example in FIG. 7. For example, the UE moves from cell 4 to cell 1. During the movement, the UE can perform mobility measurements. For example, the UE reselects from cell 4 to cell 1 based on the measurement results. Cell 4 is, for example, the first cell in the embodiment shown in FIG. 6, and cell 1 is, for example, the second cell in the embodiment shown in FIG. 6. The UE then moves again, from cell 1 to cell 7. During the movement, the UE can continue to perform mobility measurements. For example, the UE reselects from cell 1 to cell 7 based on the measurement results. Cell 1 is, for example, the second cell, and cell 7 is, for example, the third cell.

[0193] Alternatively, the embodiments of this application and the embodiments shown in FIG6 may be used independently without being combined. Optionally, even if the two embodiments are not combined, the description of the corresponding technical features (e.g., first cell, second cell, cell-free reference signal, etc.) can be referred to the embodiments shown in FIG6.

[0194] The following example illustrates how a UE can reselect from the second cell to the third cell. The process could be similar if the UE reselects from the first cell to the third cell.

[0195] S902. The access network device transmits a third downlink reference signal. Correspondingly, the UE receives the third downlink reference signal. For example, the access network device transmits the third downlink reference signal in a third cell, and the UE receives the third downlink reference signal in the third cell. If the access network device is an ORAN-based access network device, the third downlink reference signal can be sent from the DU of the access network device to the RU, and then transmitted by the RU through the air interface. Therefore, the access network device in S902 can be a complete access network device (e.g., including one or more of CU, DU, or RU, or a non-ORAN-based access network device), or it can be either a DU or an RU.

[0196] The access network device is either the access network device corresponding to the third cell or the access network device serving the third cell. Specifically, the access network device corresponding to the third cell, the access network device corresponding to the second cell, and the access network device corresponding to the first cell can be the same access network device; or they can be three different access network devices; or any two of them can be the same access network device, and the third can be a different access network device. This embodiment of the application uses the example where the access network device corresponding to the third cell, the access network device corresponding to the second cell, and the access network device corresponding to the first cell are the same access network device.

[0197] The third downlink reference signal is, for example, a non-cell-free reference signal. Optionally, the third downlink reference signal is a cell-specific reference signal, such as including SSB and / or CSI-RS. The third downlink reference signal differs from the first downlink reference signal. This can be understood as the third cell not being configured with a cell-free reference signal; or as the third cell being configured with a cell-free reference signal, but the cell-free reference signal of the third cell (e.g., the third downlink reference signal) differs from the cell-free reference signal of the second cell (or the first cell) (e.g., the first downlink reference signal).

[0198] Optionally, the UE can determine, based on the first information, that the third downlink reference signal is different from the first downlink reference signal, or that the third cell does not belong to the plurality of cells. For example, if the first information indicates that multiple cells all use the first downlink reference signal, the UE determines that the third cell does not belong to these multiple cells, therefore the UE determines that the third downlink reference signal is different from the first downlink reference signal, or that the third cell does not belong to these multiple cells. Optionally, the UE can determine that the third cell does not belong to these multiple cells based on the identifier of the third cell. For example, if the first information includes the identifiers of the multiple cells, but the identifier of the third cell is not included in the first information, the UE determines that the third cell does not belong to these multiple cells. Alternatively, the UE can locate itself and determine, based on the UE's location information, that the UE is not located in area A, and area A is the area corresponding to these multiple cells, therefore the UE determines that the third cell does not belong to these multiple cells.

[0199] Alternatively, the UE can determine that the third cell does not belong to the plurality of cells based on the measurement result of the first downlink reference signal in the third cell. For example, if the value of the measurement result is less than or equal to a first threshold, it indicates that the third cell does not belong to the plurality of cells. Because the cell free of the plurality of cells is the same, if the third cell belongs to the plurality of cells, the UE's reception quality of the first downlink reference signal in the third cell should be better, and the value of the measurement result should be larger. If the value of the measurement result of the first downlink reference signal in the third cell is smaller, it indicates that the UE has moved out of the range of the plurality of cells (for example, the first downlink reference signal received by the UE in the third cell actually comes from one or more of the plurality of cells), so the UE can determine that the third cell does not belong to the plurality of cells. The UE will obtain this measurement result in S903 below. Optionally, the measurement result may include, for example, RSRP.

[0200] Optionally, the third downlink reference signal can be configured by the access network device corresponding to the third cell. For example, the access network device can send sixth information, which can be used to configure the third downlink reference signal. The third downlink reference signal is, for example, a cell-specific reference signal for the third cell. Upon receiving the sixth information, the UE can determine the third downlink reference signal. For example, the access network device can send the sixth information in the third cell. The transmission step of the sixth information occurs, for example, before S902. The sixth information can be included in the RRC message or in messages from other protocol layers. The sixth information can include configuration information for the third downlink reference signal, for example, referred to as configuration information B. For details on configuration information B, refer to the description of configuration information A in the embodiment shown in Figure 6. If the access network device is an ORAN architecture access network device, the transmission process of the sixth information can refer to the description of the transmission process of the third information in the embodiment shown in Figure 6.

[0201] S903, the UE measures the third downlink reference signal. The UE can measure the third downlink reference signal and obtain the measurement results.

[0202] S904, the UE determines the second parameter based on the measurement result.

[0203] After the UE reselects to a third cell, it can transmit an uplink reference signal in the third cell, for example, referred to as a third uplink reference signal. The third uplink reference signal can be used for sensing. The third uplink reference signal can be, for example, an SRS (Self-Reference Signal), or other uplink reference signals. The UE references corresponding parameters when transmitting the third uplink reference signal. If the third cell also has a cell-free reference signal, and the cell-free reference signal of the third cell is the same as that of the second cell, then the UE can continue to use the first parameter to transmit the third uplink reference signal in the third cell. In this embodiment, the third downlink reference signal is different from the second downlink reference signal; therefore, the UE cannot use the first parameter in the third cell. Therefore, the UE can measure the third downlink reference signal in the third cell to determine the parameters used to transmit the third uplink reference signal, such as the second parameter.

[0204] S905, the UE sends a third uplink reference signal according to the second parameter. Correspondingly, the access network equipment receives the third uplink reference signal.

[0205] The third uplink reference signal received by the access network device can be the signal after the third uplink reference signal sent by the UE has been reflected, scattered, or diffracted by a sensing target in the environment. For example, the third uplink reference signal received by the access network device can be the echo signal of the third uplink reference signal sent by the UE. Optionally, the third uplink reference signal received by the access network device and the third uplink reference signal sent by the UE are the same signal, but the transmission path of the third uplink reference signal may have changed after being reflected, scattered, or diffracted by the sensing target. It can also be understood that the UE sends a third uplink reference signal, and the access network device also receives a third uplink reference signal, but the third uplink reference signal received by the access network device is a third uplink reference signal that has been reflected, scattered, or diffracted by the sensing target.

[0206] Optionally, the third uplink reference signal can be configured by the access network device corresponding to the third cell. For example, the access network device can send seventh information, which can be used to configure the third uplink reference signal. Upon receiving the seventh information, the UE can determine the third uplink reference signal. For example, the seventh information may include configuration information for the third uplink reference signal, referred to as configuration information C, which can be used to configure the third uplink reference signal. Taking the third uplink reference signal as an example, the configuration information C can be SRS configuration information. For example, the access network device can send the seventh information in the third cell. The transmission step of the seventh information, for example, occurs before S905. If the access network device is an ORAN architecture access network device, the transmission process of the seventh information can be referred to the description of the transmission process of the third information in the embodiment shown in Figure 6.

[0207] Optionally, the sixth and seventh pieces of information can be the same information, in which case the sixth information can be used to configure the third uplink reference signal and the third downlink reference signal. Alternatively, the sixth and seventh pieces of information can also be different information. If the sixth and seventh pieces of information are different, they can be included in the same message or in different messages.

[0208] In this embodiment of the application, if the UE moves out of the coverage area of ​​the cell-free reference signal, the UE can perform measurements to determine the parameters used to transmit the uplink reference signal, thereby transmitting the uplink reference signal according to more accurate parameters and improving the transmission quality of the uplink reference signal.

[0209] This application provides a fourth sensing method, which can be an example of the sensing method described in the embodiment shown in FIG9. Please refer to FIG10, which is a flowchart of the method.

[0210] S1001, the UE performs cell reselection in the second cell and enters the third cell. This embodiment of the application takes the UE reselecting from the second cell to the third cell as an example.

[0211] For more information on S1001, please refer to S901 of the embodiment shown in FIG9.

[0212] S1002, the UE sends a second request message to the access network device. Correspondingly, the access network device receives the second request message. For example, this access network device can be referred to as the first access network device, which is the access network device corresponding to the third cell.

[0213] The second request message is, for example, an RRC resume request. The second request message may request the restoration of the RRC connection. Optionally, the second request message may include reason information indicating the reason for requesting the restoration of the RRC connection, such as the UE entering a cell that does not support a cell-free reference signal, or the UE entering a cell with a different cell-free reference signal than the original cell.

[0214] S1003, the first access network device sends a third request message to the second access network device. Correspondingly, the second access network device receives the third request message. The second access network device is, for example, the access network device corresponding to the original cell of the UE. For example, if the original cell is the first cell, then the second access network device is the access network device corresponding to the first cell; or if the original cell is the second cell, then the second access network device is the access network device corresponding to the second cell. The second access network device is, for example, the anchor access network device of the UE. This embodiment of the application uses the example where the second access network device and the first access network device are different access network devices.

[0215] The third request message can request to obtain the context of the UE. For example, a third request message might be a UE context request.

[0216] S1004. The second access network device sends a second response message to the first access network device. Correspondingly, the first access network device receives the second response message.

[0217] Upon receiving the third request message, the second access network device can migrate the anchor access network device of the UE, for example, by migrating the anchor access network device of the UE to the first access network device. The second access network device can send a second response message to the first access network device, which may include the context of the UE. Optionally, the second response message may be, for example, a retrieve UE context response.

[0218] S1005. The second access network device sends a location update message to the core network device. Correspondingly, the core network device receives the location update message.

[0219] The core network device is, for example, an SF (this article takes an SF as a core network device as an example; or, an SF can also be an access network device or a third-party device, etc. If the SF is not a core network device, and S1005 is executed by the SF, then the SF can be replaced by the interaction between the second access network device and the SF) or an SMF, etc., and there are no specific restrictions.

[0220] If the second access network device determines that the UE has moved to a new access network device (the first access network device) that does not correspond to multiple cells, the second access network device can send a location update message to the core network device to notify the core network device that the UE has moved out of the multiple cells, and / or notify the core network device of the cell information where the UE is camped (e.g., information about a third cell). Optionally, the location update message may be, for example, a positioning information update message, or a perception information update message, etc. For a description of the multiple cells, please refer to the embodiments shown in Figure 6 or Figure 9.

[0221] S1006, the core network device sends a fourth request message to the first access network device. Correspondingly, the first access network device receives the fourth request message.

[0222] The fourth request message may request the first access network device to configure an uplink reference signal for the UE. This uplink reference signal may be, for example, an SRS, or other uplink reference signals. Optionally, the fourth request message may also include eighth information, which can be used to configure the uplink reference signal. The eighth information may be, for example, uplink reference signal configuration information recommended by the core network device. For example, the core network device may determine the eighth information based on one or more factors such as the UE's capability information, the needs of perceived services, or the resource usage of some or all UEs served by the core network device.

[0223] Optionally, the fourth request message may also request configuration information of the uplink reference signal determined by the first access network device.

[0224] The fourth request message is also known as a perception request message or a perception information request message, and there are no restrictions on the name.

[0225] S1007. The first access network device sends the seventh information to the UE. Correspondingly, the UE receives the seventh information.

[0226] The seventh information can be used to configure the third uplink reference signal. For example, the seventh information is the seventh information in the embodiment shown in Figure 9. For example, if the fourth request message includes the eighth information, the seventh information can be obtained from the eighth information. Alternatively, if the fourth request message does not include the eighth information, the seventh information can be determined by the first access network device itself. For example, the first access network device can determine the seventh information based on one or more factors such as the UE's capability information, the needs of perceived services, or the resource usage of some or all UEs served by the first access network device.

[0227] Optionally, the seventh information can also be used to configure the third downlink reference signal. For example, the seventh information is the sixth information in the embodiment shown in Figure 9. This is an example where the sixth and seventh information are the same piece of information. The third downlink reference signal is, for example, a non-cell-free reference signal, such as a cell-specific reference signal.

[0228] S1008. The first access network device sends a third response message to the core network device. Correspondingly, the core network device receives the third response message. This third response message may be a response to the fourth request message in S1006.

[0229] S1008 is similar to S804 in the embodiment shown in Figure 8 (the corresponding cells are different), and you can refer to the description of S804 for details.

[0230] S1009, the first access network device sends a third downlink reference signal. Correspondingly, the UE receives the third downlink reference signal.

[0231] For more information on S1009, please refer to S902 in the embodiment shown in Figure 9.

[0232] S1010, the UE measures the third downlink reference signal. The UE can measure the third downlink reference signal and obtain the measurement results.

[0233] S1011. The UE determines the second parameter based on the measurement result.

[0234] For more information on S1011, please refer to S904 in the embodiment shown in Figure 9.

[0235] S1012, the UE sends a third uplink reference signal according to the second parameter. Correspondingly, the access network equipment receives the third uplink reference signal.

[0236] For more information on S1012, please refer to S905 in the embodiment shown in Figure 9.

[0237] In this embodiment of the application, if the UE moves out of the coverage area of ​​the cell-free reference signal, the UE can perform measurements to determine the transmission parameters of the uplink reference signal, thereby transmitting the uplink reference signal according to more accurate transmission parameters and improving the transmission quality of the uplink reference signal.

[0238] Figure 11 shows a schematic diagram of a device provided in an embodiment of this application. The device 1100 can be a UE or its circuit system as described in any of the embodiments shown in Figures 6, 8-10, used to implement the method corresponding to the UE in the above method embodiments. Alternatively, the device 1100 can be an access network device or its circuit system as described in any of the embodiments shown in Figures 6, 8-10, used to implement the method corresponding to the access network device in the above method embodiments. Alternatively, the device 1100 can be a core network device or its circuit system as described in any of the embodiments shown in Figures 6, 8-10, used to implement the method corresponding to the core network device in the above method embodiments. For example, one type of circuit system is a chip system.

[0239] The device 1100 includes at least one processor 1101. The processor 1101 can be used for internal processing within the device to implement certain control processing functions. Optionally, the processor 1101 includes instructions. Optionally, the processor 1101 can store data. Optionally, different processors can be independent devices, located in different physical locations, or located on different integrated circuits. Optionally, different processors can be integrated into one or more processors, for example, integrated on one or more integrated circuits.

[0240] Optionally, the device 1100 includes one or more memories 1103 for storing instructions. Optionally, the memories 1103 may also store data. The processor and the memories may be separate or integrated together.

[0241] Optionally, the device 1100 includes a communication line 1102 and at least one communication interface 1104. Since the memory 1103, communication line 1102, and communication interface 1104 are all optional, they are all represented by dashed lines in FIG11.

[0242] Optionally, device 1100 may further include a transceiver and / or an antenna. The transceiver can be used to send information to or receive information from other devices. The transceiver may be referred to as a transceiver unit, transceiver circuit, input / output interface, etc., and is used to realize the transmission and reception functions of device 1100 via the antenna. Optionally, the transceiver includes a transmitter and a receiver. For example, the transmitter can be used to generate a radio frequency (RF) signal from a baseband signal, and the receiver can be used to convert the RF signal back into a baseband signal.

[0243] Processor 1101 may include a general-purpose central processing unit (CPU), a microprocessor, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or one or more integrated circuits for controlling the execution of programs according to the present application.

[0244] Communication line 1102 may include a path for transmitting information between the aforementioned components.

[0245] Communication interface 1104 uses any transceiver-like device for communicating with other devices or communication networks, such as Ethernet, radio access network (RAN), wireless local area network (WLAN), wired access network, etc.

[0246] The memory 1103 may be a read-only memory (ROM) or other type of static storage device capable of storing static information and instructions, random access memory (RAM) or other type of dynamic storage device capable of storing information and instructions, or electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM) or other optical disc storage, optical disc storage (including compressed optical discs, laser discs, optical discs, digital universal optical discs, Blu-ray discs, etc.), magnetic disk storage media or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium capable of carrying or storing desired program code in the form of instructions or data structures and accessible by a computer, but not limited thereto. The memory 1103 may exist independently and be connected to the processor 1101 via communication line 1102. Alternatively, the memory 1103 may be integrated with the processor 1101.

[0247] The memory 1103 stores computer execution instructions for implementing the scheme of this application, and the processor 1101 controls the execution of these instructions. The processor 1101 executes the computer execution instructions stored in the memory 1103 to implement the steps performed by the UE, access network device, or core network device in any of the embodiments shown in Figures 6, 8 to 10.

[0248] Optionally, the computer execution instructions in the embodiments of this application may also be referred to as application code, and the embodiments of this application do not specifically limit this.

[0249] In a specific implementation, as one embodiment, processor 1101 may include one or more CPUs, such as CPU0 and CPU1 in FIG11.

[0250] In a specific implementation, as one embodiment, device 1100 may include multiple processors, such as processor 1101 and processor 1105 in FIG. 11. Each of these processors may be a single-core (single-CPU) processor or a multi-core (multi-CPU) processor. Here, a processor may refer to one or more devices, circuits, and / or processing cores for processing data (e.g., computer program instructions).

[0251] When the device shown in Figure 11 is a chip, such as a UE chip, an access network device chip, or a core network device chip, the chip includes a processor 1101 (and may also include a processor 1105), a communication line 1102, and a communication interface 1104. Optionally, it may include a memory 1103. Specifically, the communication interface 1104 may be an input interface, pins, or circuits, etc. The memory 1103 may be a register, cache, etc. The processor 1101 and processor 1105 may be a general-purpose CPU, microprocessor, ASIC, or one or more integrated circuits for controlling the execution of a program for the sensing method of any of the above embodiments.

[0252] This application embodiment can divide the device into functional modules according to the above method examples. For example, each function can be divided into a separate functional module, or two or more functions can be integrated into one processing module. The integrated module can be implemented in hardware or software. It should be noted that the module division in this application embodiment is illustrative and only represents one logical functional division. In actual implementation, there may be other division methods. For example, when dividing each functional module according to each function, Figure 12 is a schematic diagram of a device. The device 1200 can be the UE, access network device, or core network device involved in the above method embodiments, or it can be a chip in the UE, a chip in the access network device, or a chip in the core network device. The device 1200 includes a processing unit 1202 and a transceiver unit 1201.

[0253] It should be understood that the device 1200 can be used to implement the steps performed by the UE, access network device or core network device in the sensing method of the embodiments of this application. The relevant features can be referred to the embodiments shown in any of the above figures 6, 8 to 10, which will not be repeated here.

[0254] Optionally, the functions / implementation processes of the transceiver unit 1201 and processing unit 1202 in Figure 12 can be implemented by the processor 1101 in Figure 11 calling computer execution instructions stored in memory 1103. Alternatively, the functions / implementation processes of the processing unit 1202 in Figure 12 can be implemented by the processor 1101 in Figure 11 calling computer execution instructions stored in memory 1103, and the functions / implementation processes of the transceiver unit 1201 in Figure 12 can be implemented by the communication interface 1104 in Figure 11.

[0255] Optionally, when the device 1200 is a chip or circuit, the function / implementation process of the transceiver unit 1201 can also be implemented through pins or circuits. Optionally, the transceiver unit 1201 may include a transmitting unit and / or a receiving unit, wherein the transmitting unit is used to implement the transmitting function and the receiving unit is used to implement the receiving function; or, the transceiver unit 1201 may be an integral module capable of implementing the transmitting and / or receiving functions. Optionally, the transceiver unit 1201 may be implemented using a transceiver.

[0256] This application also provides a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program or instructions that, when executed, implement the methods performed by the UE, access network device, or core network device in the aforementioned method embodiments. Thus, the functions described in the above embodiments can be implemented as software functional units and sold or used as independent products. Based on this understanding, the technical solution of this application, in essence, or the part that contributes to it, or a part of the technical solution, can be embodied in the form of a software product. This computer software product is stored in a storage medium and includes several instructions to cause a computer device (which may be a personal computer, server, or network device, etc.) to execute all or part of the steps of the methods described in the various embodiments of this application. The storage medium includes various media capable of storing program code, such as USB flash drives, portable hard drives, ROM, RAM, magnetic disks, or optical disks.

[0257] This application also provides a computer program product comprising: computer program code, which, when run on a computer, causes the computer to perform the method executed by the UE, access network device, or core network device in any of the foregoing method embodiments.

[0258] This application also provides a processing apparatus, including a processor and an interface; the processor is used to execute the methods performed by the UE, access network device or core network device involved in any of the above method embodiments.

[0259] In the above embodiments, implementation can be achieved entirely or partially through software, hardware, firmware, or any combination thereof. When implemented using software, it can be implemented entirely or partially in the form of a computer program product. The computer program product includes one or more computer instructions. When the computer program instructions are loaded and executed on a computer, all or part of the processes or functions described in the embodiments of this application are generated. The computer can be a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, a computer network, or other programmable device. The computer instructions can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium or transmitted from one computer-readable storage medium to another. For example, the computer instructions can be transmitted from one website, computer, server, or data center to another website, computer, server, or data center via wired (e.g., coaxial cable, fiber optic, digital subscriber line (DSL)) or wireless (e.g., infrared, wireless, microwave, etc.) means. The computer-readable storage medium can be any available medium that a computer can access or a data storage device such as a server or data center that integrates one or more available media. The available medium can be a magnetic medium (e.g., floppy disk, hard disk, magnetic tape), an optical medium (e.g., DVD), or a semiconductor medium (e.g., solid-state disk (SSD)).

[0260] The various illustrative logic units and circuits described in the embodiments of this application can be implemented or operate the described functions using a general-purpose processor, digital signal processor (DSP), ASIC, field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof. The general-purpose processor can be a microprocessor; alternatively, it can be any conventional processor, controller, microcontroller, or state machine. The processor can also be implemented using a combination of computing devices, such as a digital signal processor and a microprocessor, multiple microprocessors, one or more microprocessors combined with a digital signal processor core, or any other similar configuration.

[0261] The steps of the methods or algorithms described in the embodiments of this application can be directly embedded in hardware, software units executed by a processor, or a combination of both. The software units can be stored in RAM, flash memory, ROM, erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), EEPROM, registers, hard disks, removable disks, CD-ROMs, or any other form of storage medium in the art. Exemplarily, the storage medium can be connected to the processor so that the processor can read information from the storage medium and write information to the storage medium. Optionally, the storage medium can also be integrated into the processor. The processor and storage medium can be disposed in an ASIC, which can be disposed in the terminal device. Optionally, the processor and storage medium can also be disposed in different components of the terminal device.

[0262] These computer program instructions may also be loaded onto a computer or other programmable data processing apparatus to cause a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer or other programmable apparatus to produce a computer-implemented process, such that the instructions, which execute on the computer or other programmable apparatus, provide steps for implementing the functions specified in one or more flowcharts and / or one or more block diagrams.

[0263] The contents of the various embodiments of this application can be referenced to each other. Unless otherwise specified or there is a logical conflict, the terms and / or descriptions between different embodiments are consistent and can be referenced to each other. The technical features in different embodiments can be combined to form new embodiments according to their inherent logical relationship.

[0264] It is understood that in the embodiments of this application, the UE and / or access network device and / or core network device may perform some or all of the steps in the embodiments of this application. These steps or operations are merely examples. In the embodiments of this application, other operations or variations of various operations may also be performed. Furthermore, the steps may be performed in different orders as presented in the embodiments of this application, and it is not necessary to perform all the operations in the embodiments of this application.

Claims

1. A perception method, comprising: The method comprises: receiving first information in a first cell, the first information being used for configuring a first downlink reference signal, the first downlink reference signal being a downlink reference signal used by a plurality of cells, the first cell belonging to the plurality of cells, wherein the first downlink reference signal is associated with a first uplink reference signal, the first uplink reference signal being used for sensing.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein, The method further comprises: sending the first uplink reference signal.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein, The method further comprises: performing cell reselection in the first cell to enter a second cell, the second cell belonging to the plurality of cells; sending the first uplink reference signal according to a first parameter in the second cell, wherein the first parameter is determined based on measurement of the first downlink reference signal in the first cell.

4. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The method further comprises: receiving the first downlink reference signal in the first cell; determining a first parameter based on measurement result of the first downlink reference signal; sending the first uplink reference signal according to the first parameter in the first cell.

5. The method according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that, The first parameter is used to indicate one or more of: transmission power; uplink timing information; or whether to send the first uplink reference signal.

6. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, The first information is included in a radio resource control (RRC) release message.

7. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The method further comprises: performing cell reselection in the first cell or the second cell to enter a third cell; receiving a second downlink reference signal and performing measurement on the second downlink reference signal; determining a second parameter based on measurement result of the second downlink reference signal, wherein the second downlink reference signal is different from the first downlink reference signal; sending a second uplink reference signal according to the second parameter.

8. The method of claim 7, wherein: a value of the measurement result of the first downlink reference signal in the third cell by the terminal is less than or equal to a first threshold; or the third cell does not belong to the plurality of cells.

9. A perception method comprising: The method comprises: sending first information in a first cell, the first information being used for configuring a first downlink reference signal, the first downlink reference signal being a downlink reference signal used by a plurality of cells, the first cell belonging to the plurality of cells, wherein the first downlink reference signal is associated with a first uplink reference signal, the first uplink reference signal being used for sensing.

10. The method of claim 9, wherein, The method further comprises: receiving the first uplink reference signal.

11. The method according to claim 9 or 10, characterized in that, The method further comprises: sending the first downlink reference signal.

12. The method according to any one of claims 9 to 11, characterized in that, The first information is included in an RRC release message.

13. The method according to any one of claims 9 to 12, characterized in that, The method further comprises: sending a second downlink reference signal in a third cell, the third cell not belonging to the plurality of cells; receiving a second uplink reference signal in the third cell, the second uplink reference signal being determined based on the second downlink reference signal.

14. The method according to any one of claims 9 to 13, characterized in that, The method further comprises: receiving second information, the second information being used for configuring the first downlink reference signal used by the plurality of cells.

15. A perception method comprising: The method comprises: transmitting second information, the second information being used for configuring a first downlink reference signal, the first downlink reference signal being a downlink reference signal used by a plurality of cells, wherein the first downlink reference signal is associated with a first uplink reference signal, the first uplink reference signal being used for sensing.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein, The method is applied to a sensing network element, the sensing network element being located in a core network device.

17. An apparatus, comprising: The apparatus comprises means for performing the method of any one of claims 1-8, or means for performing the method of any one of claims 9-14, or means for performing the method of any one of claims 15-16.

18. An apparatus, comprising: The apparatus comprises a processor configured to perform the method of any one of claims 1-8, or to perform the method of any one of claims 9-14, or to perform the method of any one of claims 15-16.

19. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The computer readable storage medium is configured to store a computer program which, when executed on a computer, causes the method of any one of claims 1-8 to be performed, or causes the method of any one of claims 9-14 to be performed, or causes the method of any one of claims 15-16 to be performed.

20. A computer program product, characterised in that, The computer program product comprises a computer program which, when executed on a computer, causes the computer to perform the method of any one of claims 1-8, or causes the computer to perform the method of any one of claims 9-14, or causes the computer to perform the method of any one of claims 15-16.

21. A perception system, comprising: The sensing system comprises an access network device and a sensing network element, wherein The access network device is configured to perform the method of any one of claims 9-14; The sensing network element is configured to perform the method of any one of claims 15-16.

22. The perception system of claim 21, wherein, The sensing system further comprises a terminal device, wherein The terminal device is configured to perform the method of any one of claims 1-8.

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