Communication method and apparatus

Abstract

A communication method and apparatus, applicable to the technical field of communications, for use in improving communication performance. The method comprises: a terminal device determining a first sequence, wherein the first sequence is any one of the following: a synchronization sequence, a paging sequence, a random access sequence, a reference signal sequence, a sequence used for generating a wake-up signal, a sequence used for generating a hybrid automatic repeat request signal, or a sequence used for generating data; and sending a first signal, or receiving a first signal, wherein the first signal is generated on the basis of the first sequence, and the first signal is carried by a first resource; wherein the first resource is used for carrying at least one sequence in a plurality of cells, and the at least one sequence comprises the first sequence; and / or the terminal device is identified by a first identifier in the plurality of cells.

Description

A communication method and apparatus

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202410992495.4, filed on July 22, 2024, entitled "A Communication Method and Apparatus", the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This application relates to the field of communication technology, and in particular to a communication method and apparatus. Background Technology

[0004] With the development of mobile communication technology, wireless services are becoming increasingly diverse and abundant, and users' demands for communication performance are constantly rising. Therefore, how to improve communication performance is a current research direction. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This application provides a communication method and apparatus to improve communication performance.

[0006] Firstly, this application provides a communication method applicable to a terminal device, for example, which can be executed by the terminal device or by a device within the terminal device. Exemplarily, a device within the terminal device can refer to a component (e.g., a processor, circuit, chip, or chip system) or logic modules or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the terminal device.

[0007] Taking a terminal device as the executing entity as an example, the method may include: the terminal device determining a first sequence, the first sequence being at least one of the following: a synchronization sequence, a paging sequence, a random access sequence, a reference signal sequence, a sequence for generating a wake-up signal, a sequence for generating a hybrid automatic repeat request signal, or a sequence for generating data; sending a first signal, or receiving a first signal, the first signal being generated based on the first sequence, and the first signal being carried by a first resource; wherein, the first resource is used to carry at least one sequence in multiple cells, the at least one sequence including the first sequence; and / or, the terminal device is identified by a first identifier in multiple cells.

[0008] Optionally, the at least one sequence may include at least one of the following: a synchronization sequence, a paging sequence, a random access sequence, a reference signal sequence, a sequence for generating a wake-up signal, a sequence for generating a hybrid automatic repeat request signal, or a sequence for generating data. It is understood that the synchronization sequence, paging sequence, random access sequence, reference signal sequence, sequence for generating a wake-up signal, sequence for generating a hybrid automatic repeat request signal, and sequence for generating data may each be referred to as a type of sequence.

[0009] In the above embodiments of this application, the first resource can carry multiple types of sequences in multiple cells, and the terminal device is identified by the first identifier in multiple cells. This simplifies the resource configuration process, improves communication performance, and enhances user experience. Furthermore, when the terminal device moves within multiple cells, it can communicate with the network device through the first resource, the first identifier, and at least one sequence, thus eliminating the need for frequent synchronization, measurement, and configuration operations. This simplifies mobility management and updates, reduces power consumption of both the terminal device and the network device, and further improves communication performance and user experience.

[0010] In one possible implementation, the terminal device may also receive a first message from a first network device, the first message including at least one of the following: a first identifier for indicating information of the at least one sequence, or the first resource, wherein the cell corresponding to the first network device belongs to the plurality of cells.

[0011] With the above implementation, at least one of the first identifier, at least one sequence, or first resource can be configured by the first network device. In this way, when the terminal device moves in multiple cells, it can transmit at least one sequence with the network devices corresponding to the multiple cells according to the first identifier and the first resource. This eliminates the need for frequent synchronization, measurement, configuration, and other operations, simplifies mobility management and updates, reduces the power consumption of network devices and terminal devices, and helps improve communication performance.

[0012] Secondly, this application provides a communication method applicable to a terminal device, for example, which can be executed by the terminal device or by a device within the terminal device. Exemplarily, a device within the terminal device can refer to a component (e.g., a processor, circuit, chip, or chip system) or logic modules or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the terminal device.

[0013] Taking a terminal device as the executing entity as an example, the method may include: the terminal device receiving a first message from a first network device, the first message including at least one of the following: a first identifier, information indicating at least one sequence, or a first resource, wherein the first identifier identifies the terminal device in multiple cells, the first resource is used to carry the at least one sequence in the multiple cells, the at least one sequence including at least one of the following: a synchronization sequence, a paging sequence, a random access sequence, a reference signal sequence, a sequence for generating a wake-up signal, a sequence for generating a hybrid automatic repeat request signal, or a sequence for generating data, the cell corresponding to the first network device belongs to the multiple cells; and communicating with the network devices corresponding to the multiple cells according to the first message.

[0014] In one possible implementation, when communicating with network devices corresponding to the plurality of cells according to the first message, the terminal device may send a first signal to the first network device or receive a first signal from the first network device. The first signal is carried by the first resource and is generated based on a first sequence. The first sequence belongs to the at least one sequence, and the first sequence is any one of the following: a synchronization sequence, a paging sequence, a random access sequence, a reference signal sequence, a sequence for generating a wake-up signal, a sequence for generating a hybrid automatic repeat request signal, or a sequence for generating data.

[0015] The technical effects achievable by the second aspect and any of its possible implementations are described in the same manner as the technical effects achievable by the first aspect and any of its possible implementations, and will not be repeated here.

[0016] Based on the first or second aspect above, in one possible implementation, the first identifier is determined by the identifier of the first cell and the radio network temporary identity (RNTI) of the terminal device; or, the first identifier is determined by the identifier of the first region, the identifier of the first cell, and the RNTI of the terminal device; wherein, the first cell belongs to the plurality of cells, and the first region is the region covered by the network device corresponding to the plurality of cells.

[0017] With the above implementation, the first identifier of the terminal device in multiple cells can be obtained by extending the RNTI of the terminal device, which is easy to implement. The length of the first identifier has no impact on the length of the identifiers subsequently assigned to other terminal devices in the same multiple cells.

[0018] Based on the first or second aspect above, in one possible implementation, the at least one sequence includes at least one random access sequence; the identifier of the at least one random access sequence is determined by the first identifier; and / or, the identifier of at least one resource is determined by the first identifier, the at least one resource being used to carry the at least one random access sequence within the plurality of cells, the at least one resource belonging to the first resource.

[0019] Through the above implementation, there is an association between the first identifier and the identifier of at least one random access sequence included in at least one sequence, and the identifier of at least one resource used to carry the at least one random access sequence. In this way, the terminal device can determine the identifier of the random access sequence it can use and the resource corresponding to the random access sequence it can use based on the first identifier, without the need for network device configuration, which can reduce signaling interaction.

[0020] Based on the first or second aspect above, in one possible implementation, the identifier of the at least one random access sequence is determined by the first identifier, which can be replaced by: the identifier of the at least one random access sequence is determined by the first identifier and first information, wherein the first information includes the number of the at least one random access sequence and / or a first quantity, wherein the first quantity is the number of random access sequences that support transmission within the plurality of cells.

[0021] Based on the first or second aspect above, in one possible implementation, the identifier of the at least one resource is determined by the first identifier, which can be replaced by: the identifier of the at least one resource is determined by the first identifier and second information, wherein the second information includes the quantity of at least one resource and / or a second quantity, the second quantity being the quantity of resources used to carry random access sequences transmitted within the plurality of cells.

[0022] Based on the first or second aspect above, in one possible implementation, the at least one sequence includes at least one random access sequence, which is used to initiate random access.

[0023] Through the above implementation, the terminal device can use the first resource to initiate random access to the network device corresponding to the multiple cells in multiple cells. This can reduce the number of times the random access sequence and the resources carrying the random access sequence are configured, simplify mobility management and updates, and help reduce the power consumption of network devices and terminal devices.

[0024] Based on the first or second aspect described above, in one possible implementation, the terminal device may also receive a second message from the first network device, the second message indicating that the first network device supports the first transmission mode, so that the terminal device can determine that the first network device supports the first transmission mode.

[0025] Based on the first or second aspect described above, in one possible implementation, the terminal device may also send a third message to the first network device, the third message instructing the terminal device to use a first transmission mode, so that the terminal device can obtain configuration information of the first transmission mode, such as at least one of a first identifier, information indicating at least one sequence, or a first resource.

[0026] Based on the first or second aspect above, in one possible implementation, the third message is carried by a second resource, and the third message instructs the terminal device to use the first transmission mode; or, the third message is carried by a third resource, and the third message instructs the terminal device to use a second transmission mode, which is different from the first transmission mode.

[0027] Through the above implementation, the terminal device can use different resources to carry the third message to distinguish whether to use the first transmission mode, without carrying additional indication information, which helps to reduce the overhead of network resources.

[0028] Based on the first or second aspect above, in one possible implementation, the third message is generated based on the second sequence, and the third message instructs the terminal device to use the first transmission mode; or, the third message is generated based on the third sequence, and the third message instructs the terminal device to use the second transmission mode, which is different from the first transmission mode.

[0029] Through the above implementation, the terminal device can use different sequences to generate a third message to distinguish whether the first transmission mode is used, without carrying additional indication information, which helps to reduce the overhead of network resources.

[0030] Based on the first or second aspect described above, in one possible implementation, the third message is a random access message. For example, the third message could be a random access message during the initial access process.

[0031] Based on the first or second aspect above, in one possible implementation, the third message is scrambled based on third information, and the third message instructs the terminal device to use the first transmission mode; or, the third message is scrambled based on fourth information, and the third message instructs the terminal device to use a second transmission mode, which is different from the first transmission mode.

[0032] Through the above implementation method, the terminal device can use different information scrambling third messages to distinguish whether to use the first transmission mode, without carrying additional indication information, which helps to reduce the overhead of network resources.

[0033] Based on the first or second aspect described above, in one possible implementation, the third message is message Msg3. For example, the third message could be Msg3 during the initial access process.

[0034] Based on the first or second aspect described above, in one possible implementation, the terminal device may further receive a fourth message from the first network device, the fourth message including at least one of the following: a second resource, a second sequence, or third information. Optionally, the fourth message may further include at least one of the following: a third resource, a third sequence, or fourth information.

[0035] Through the above implementation method, the second resource, the second sequence, and the third information can be predefined or configured by the first network device, and the implementation method is flexible.

[0036] Based on the first or second aspect described above, in one possible implementation, the third message is carried by radio resource control (RRC) signaling. For example, the terminal device can send the third message to the first network device after the initial access is completed or the RRC connection is established, without changing the initial access procedure, thus offering good compatibility.

[0037] Based on the first or second aspect above, in one possible implementation, the terminal device may also receive a fifth message from the first network device, the fifth message including at least one of the following: the identifier of the network device corresponding to the plurality of cells, the identifier of the plurality of cells, or information indicating permission to use the first transmission mode.

[0038] Based on the first or second aspect above, in one possible implementation, the frequency domain resources occupied by the first resource in different time units may be the same, or the frequency domain resources occupied by the first resource in different time units may be different; the first resource may be continuous in the frequency domain, or the first resource may be discontinuous in the frequency domain; the first resource may be continuous in the time domain, or the first resource may be discontinuous in the time domain.

[0039] Based on the first or second aspect described above, in one possible implementation, the first resource is consistent across multiple cells. For example, the first resource is configured identically across multiple cells, or the first resource is shared by multiple cells, or the first resource remains unchanged across multiple cells. This first resource can be configured for use by at least one terminal device, which can communicate with the network devices corresponding to the multiple cells through the first resource.

[0040] Thirdly, this application provides a communication method applicable to a first network device, for example, which can be executed by the first network device or by a device within the first network device. Exemplarily, a device within the first network device may refer to a component of the first network device (e.g., a processor, circuit, chip, or chip system), or it may refer to a logic module or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the first network device.

[0041] Taking a first network device as the executing entity as an example, the method may include: the first network device determining a first sequence, wherein the first sequence is any one of the following: a synchronization sequence, a paging sequence, a random access sequence, a reference signal sequence, a sequence for generating a wake-up signal, a sequence for generating a hybrid automatic repeat request signal, or a sequence for generating data; sending a first signal to a terminal device, or receiving a first signal from a terminal device, wherein the first signal is generated based on the first sequence and is carried by a first resource; wherein the first resource is used to carry at least one sequence in multiple cells, the at least one sequence including the first sequence; and / or, the terminal device is identified by a first identifier in multiple cells, the multiple cells including the cell corresponding to the first network device.

[0042] Optionally, the at least one sequence may include at least one of the following: a synchronization sequence, a paging sequence, a random access sequence, a reference signal sequence, a sequence for generating a wake-up signal, a sequence for generating a hybrid automatic repeat request signal, or a sequence for generating data.

[0043] In one possible implementation, the first network device may also send a first message to the terminal device, the first message including at least one of the following: the first identifier, used to indicate information of the at least one sequence, or the first resource.

[0044] Fourthly, this application provides a communication method applicable to a first network device, for example, which can be executed by the first network device or by a device within the first network device. Exemplarily, a device within the first network device can refer to a component of the first network device (e.g., a processor, circuit, chip, or chip system), or it can refer to a logic module or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the first network device.

[0045] Taking a first network device as the executing entity as an example, the method may include: the first network device sending a first message to a terminal device, the first message including at least one of the following: a first identifier for indicating information of at least one sequence, or a first resource, wherein the first identifier identifies the terminal device in multiple cells, the first resource is used to carry the at least one sequence in the multiple cells, the at least one sequence including at least one of the following: a synchronization sequence, a paging sequence, a random access sequence, a reference signal sequence, a sequence for generating a wake-up signal, a sequence for generating a hybrid automatic repeat request signal, or a sequence for generating data, the cell corresponding to the first network device belongs to the multiple cells; and communicating with the terminal device according to the first message.

[0046] In one possible implementation, when communicating with the terminal device according to the first message, the first network device may send a first signal to the terminal device or receive a first signal from the terminal device. The first signal is carried by the first resource and is generated based on a first sequence. The first sequence belongs to the at least one sequence, and the first sequence is any one of the following: a synchronization sequence, a paging sequence, a random access sequence, a reference signal sequence, a sequence for generating a wake-up signal, a sequence for generating a hybrid automatic repeat request signal, or a sequence for generating data.

[0047] Based on the third or fourth aspect above, in one possible implementation, the first identifier is determined by the identifier of the first cell and the temporary wireless network identifier of the terminal device; or, the first identifier is determined by the identifier of the first region, the identifier of the first cell, and the RNTI of the terminal device; wherein, the first cell belongs to the plurality of cells, and the first region is the area covered by the network device corresponding to the plurality of cells.

[0048] Based on the third or fourth aspect above, in one possible implementation, the at least one sequence includes at least one random access sequence; the identifier of the at least one random access sequence is determined by the first identifier; and / or, the identifier of at least one resource is determined by the first identifier, the at least one resource being used to carry the at least one random access sequence within the plurality of cells, the at least one resource belonging to the first resource.

[0049] Based on the third or fourth aspect above, in one possible implementation, the identifier of the at least one random access sequence is determined by the first identifier, which can be replaced by: the identifier of the at least one random access sequence is determined by the first identifier and first information, wherein the first information includes the number of the at least one random access sequence and / or a first quantity, wherein the first quantity is the number of random access sequences that support transmission in the plurality of cells.

[0050] Based on the third or fourth aspect above, in one possible implementation, the identifier of the at least one resource is determined by the first identifier, which can be replaced by: the identifier of the at least one resource is determined by the first identifier and second information, wherein the second information includes the quantity of at least one resource and / or a second quantity, the second quantity being the quantity of resources used to carry random access sequences transmitted within the plurality of cells.

[0051] Based on the third or fourth aspect above, in one possible implementation, the at least one sequence includes at least one random access sequence, which is used to initiate random access.

[0052] Based on the third or fourth aspect mentioned above, in one possible implementation, the first network device may also send a second message to the terminal device, the second message indicating that the first network device supports the first transmission mode.

[0053] Based on the third or fourth aspect above, in one possible implementation, the first network device may also receive a third message from the terminal device, the third message instructing the terminal device to use the first transmission mode.

[0054] Based on the third or fourth aspect above, in one possible implementation, the third message is carried by a second resource, and the third message instructs the terminal device to use the first transmission mode; or, the third message is carried by a third resource, and the third message instructs the terminal device to use a second transmission mode, which is different from the first transmission mode.

[0055] Based on the third or fourth aspect above, in one possible implementation, the third message is generated based on the second sequence, and the third message instructs the terminal device to use the first transmission mode; or, the third message is generated based on the third sequence, and the third message instructs the terminal device to use the second transmission mode, which is different from the first transmission mode.

[0056] Based on the third or fourth aspect mentioned above, in one possible implementation, the third message is a random access message.

[0057] Based on the third or fourth aspect above, in one possible implementation, the third message is scrambled based on third information, and the third message instructs the terminal device to use the first transmission mode; or, the third message is scrambled based on fourth information, and the third message instructs the terminal device to use a second transmission mode, which is different from the first transmission mode.

[0058] Based on the third or fourth aspect mentioned above, in one possible implementation, the third message is message Msg3.

[0059] Based on the third or fourth aspect described above, in one possible implementation, the first network device may further send a fourth message to the terminal device, the fourth message including at least one of the following: a second resource, a second sequence, or third information. Optionally, the fourth message may further include at least one of the following: a third resource, a third sequence, or fourth information.

[0060] Based on the third or fourth aspect mentioned above, in one possible implementation, the third message is carried by RRC signaling.

[0061] Based on the third or fourth aspect above, in one possible implementation, the first network device may also send a fifth message to the terminal device, the fifth message including at least one of the following: the identifier of the network device corresponding to the plurality of cells, the identifier of the plurality of cells, or information indicating permission to use the first transmission mode.

[0062] Based on the third or fourth aspect above, in one possible implementation, the frequency domain resources occupied by the first resource in different time units may be the same, or the frequency domain resources occupied by the first resource in different time units may be different; the first resource may be continuous in the frequency domain, or the first resource may be discontinuous in the frequency domain; the first resource may be continuous in the time domain, or the first resource may be discontinuous in the time domain.

[0063] Based on the third or fourth aspect described above, in one possible implementation, the first resource is consistent across multiple cells. For example, the first resource is configured identically across multiple cells, or the first resource is shared by multiple cells, or the first resource remains unchanged across multiple cells. This first resource can be configured for use by at least one terminal device, which can communicate with the network devices corresponding to the multiple cells through the first resource.

[0064] The technical effects that can be achieved by the third or fourth aspect and any of its possible implementations mentioned above should be referred to the technical effects that can be achieved by the first or second aspect and any of its possible implementations mentioned above, and will not be repeated here.

[0065] Fifthly, this application provides a communication device that can be used to perform the methods described in the first or second aspect and any possible implementation thereof. The communication device may be, for example, a terminal device, or a component within a terminal device. The communication device may include modules, units, or means corresponding to the methods described in the first or second aspect and any possible implementation thereof. These modules, units, or means may be implemented in hardware, software, or by hardware executing corresponding software. The hardware or software includes one or more modules or units corresponding to the aforementioned functions.

[0066] In one possible implementation, the communication device may include a baseband device and a radio frequency device.

[0067] In another possible implementation, the communication device may include a processing module (sometimes also called a processing unit) and a transceiver module (sometimes also called a transceiver unit). The transceiver module is capable of both sending and receiving functions. When the transceiver module performs the sending function, it may be called a sending module (sometimes also called a sending unit), and when it performs the receiving function, it may be called a receiving module (sometimes also called a receiving unit). The sending module and the receiving module may be the same functional module, referred to as the transceiver module, which performs both sending and receiving functions; or, the sending module and the receiving module may be different functional modules, with "transceiver module" being a collective term for these functional modules.

[0068] Sixthly, this application provides a communication device that can be used to perform the methods described in the third or fourth aspect and any possible implementation thereof. The communication device may be, for example, a first network device, or a component within a first network device. The communication device may include modules, units, or means corresponding to the methods described in the third or fourth aspect and any possible implementation thereof. These modules, units, or means may be implemented in hardware, software, or by hardware executing corresponding software. The hardware or software includes one or more modules or units corresponding to the aforementioned functions.

[0069] In one possible implementation, the communication device may include a baseband device and a radio frequency device.

[0070] In another possible implementation, the communication device may include a processing module (sometimes also called a processing unit) and a transceiver module (sometimes also called a transceiver unit). The transceiver module is capable of both sending and receiving functions. When the transceiver module performs the sending function, it may be called a sending module (sometimes also called a sending unit), and when it performs the receiving function, it may be called a receiving module (sometimes also called a receiving unit). The sending module and the receiving module may be the same functional module, referred to as the transceiver module, which performs both sending and receiving functions; or, the sending module and the receiving module may be different functional modules, with "transceiver module" being a collective term for these functional modules.

[0071] In a seventh aspect, this application provides a communication system that may include the communication device provided in the fifth aspect above, and / or the communication device provided in the sixth aspect above.

[0072] Eighthly, this application also provides a communication device. The communication device may include one or more processors. Optionally, the communication device may further include a memory. The memory is used to store one or more computer programs or instructions. The one or more processors are used to execute the one or more computer programs or instructions stored in the memory, causing the communication device to perform the methods described in any of the first to fourth aspects and any possible implementations thereof.

[0073] Ninthly, this application also provides a communication device, comprising: a processor and an interface circuit; the interface circuit is configured to receive signals from other communication devices besides the communication device and transmit them to the processor, or to send signals from the processor to other communication devices besides the communication device. The processor is configured to implement the method described in any of the above aspects through logic circuits or by executing computer programs or instructions. The communication device may be a terminal device as described in the first or second aspect, or a device including the terminal device, or a device included in the terminal device, such as a chip; or, the communication device may be a first network device as described in the third or fourth aspect, or a device including the first network device, or a device included in the first network device.

[0074] In some possible designs, when the device is a chip system, it can be composed of chips or contain chips and other discrete components.

[0075] In a tenth aspect, this application also provides a chip system comprising at least one chip and a memory, wherein the at least one chip is configured to read and execute a program stored in the memory to implement the method described in any of the first to fourth aspects and any possible implementation thereof.

[0076] Eleventhly, this application also provides a computer-readable storage medium for storing a computer program or instructions that, when executed, cause the method described in any of the first to fourth aspects and any possible implementation thereof to be implemented.

[0077] In a twelfth aspect, this application also provides a computer program product comprising a computer program or instructions that, when executed on a computer, cause the methods described in any of the first to fourth aspects and any possible implementation thereof to be implemented.

[0078] The technical effects that can be achieved by the fifth to twelfth aspects and any of their possible implementations are described above are in accordance with the technical effects that can be achieved by any of the first to fourth aspects and any of their possible implementations, and will not be repeated here. Attached Figure Description

[0079] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the network architecture of a communication system;

[0080] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of a network architecture centered on a base station;

[0081] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of a user-centric network architecture;

[0082] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of various elemental BWPs provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0083] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of various elemental BWPs provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0084] Figure 6 is a flowchart illustrating a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0085] Figure 7 is a flowchart illustrating another communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0086] Figure 8 is a flowchart illustrating another communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0087] Figure 9 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a communication device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0088] Figure 10 is a schematic diagram of another communication device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0089] Figure 11 is a schematic diagram of another communication device provided in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0090] 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.

[0091] The network architecture and business scenarios described in this application are intended to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, and do not constitute a limitation on the technical solutions provided in the embodiments of this application. As those skilled in the art will know, with the evolution of network architecture and the emergence of new business scenarios, the technical solutions provided in the embodiments of this application are also applicable to similar technical problems.

[0092] I. In the embodiments of this application, "multiple" can refer to two or more. Therefore, in the embodiments of this application, "multiple" can also be understood as "at least two". "At least one" can be understood as one or more, such as one, two or more. For example, "including at least one" means including one, two or more. For example, including at least one of A, B and C, then it can include A, B, C, A and B, A and C, B and C, or A, B and C. "And / or" describes the association relationship of the associated objects. Specifically, there can be three relationships. For example, A and / or B can represent: A exists alone, A and B exist simultaneously, and B exists alone. In addition, the character " / ", unless otherwise specified, generally indicates that the associated objects before and after are in an "or" relationship.

[0093] Second, the terms "system" and "network" in the embodiments of this application can be used interchangeably, and "according to" and "based on" can be used interchangeably.

[0094] The ordinal numbers such as "first" and "second" mentioned in the embodiments of this application are generally used to distinguish different objects, and are not used to limit the order, timing, priority, or importance of multiple objects. For example, the first sequence, second sequence, and third sequence involved in the embodiments of this application are used to distinguish different sequences, and do not limit the order, timing, priority, or importance of the multiple sequences.

[0095] 3. The terms “comprising” and “having” and any variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, for example, a process, method, system, product or device that includes a series of steps or units is not necessarily limited to those steps or units that are expressly listed, but may include other steps or units that are not expressly listed or that are inherent to such process, method, product or device.

[0096] IV. In this application, "predefined" may include predefined terms, such as protocol definitions. "Predefined" can be implemented by pre-storing corresponding codes, tables, or other means of indicating relevant information in the device (e.g., including various network elements), and this application does not limit the specific implementation method.

[0097] V. The term "storage" or "preservation" in this application can refer to storage in one or more memory devices. These memory devices can be separately configured or integrated into an encoder, decoder, processor, or communication device. Alternatively, some memory devices can be separately configured, while others can be integrated into a decoder, processor, or communication device. The type of memory can be any form of storage medium, and this is not limited.

[0098] VI. The arrows or boxes indicated by dashed lines in the schematic diagrams in the accompanying drawings of this application represent optional steps or optional modules.

[0099] VII. In this application, "instruction" may include direct instruction, indirect instruction, explicit instruction, and implicit instruction. When describing a certain instruction information for the purpose of instructing A, it can be understood that the instruction information carries A, directly instructs A, or indirectly instructs A.

[0100] In this application, the information indicated by the instruction information is called the information to be instructed. In specific implementations, there are many ways to indicate the information to be instructed, such as, but not limited to, directly indicating the information to be instructed, such as the information to be instructed itself or its index. It can also indirectly indicate the information to be instructed by indicating other information, where there is a relationship between the other information and the information to be instructed. It can also indicate only a part of the information to be instructed, while the other parts are known or pre-agreed upon. For example, the instruction of specific information can be achieved by using a pre-agreed (e.g., protocol-defined) arrangement of various pieces of information, thereby reducing instruction overhead to some extent. Furthermore, the information to be instructed can be sent as a whole or divided into multiple sub-information pieces, and the sending period and / or timing of these sub-information pieces can be the same or different.

[0101] 8. In this application, "send" and "receive" indicate the direction of signal transmission. For example, "send information to XX" can be understood as the destination of the information being XX, which may include direct transmission via the air interface or indirect transmission by other units or modules via the air interface. "Receive information from YY" can be understood as the source of the information being YY, which may include direct reception from YY via the air interface or indirect reception from YY by other units or modules via the air interface. "Send" can also be understood as the "output" of the chip interface, and "receive" can also be understood as the "input" of the chip interface. In other words, sending and receiving can occur between devices, such as between network devices and terminal devices, or within a device, such as between components, modules, chips, software modules, or hardware modules within the device via a bus, wiring, or interface.

[0102] IX. In the embodiments of this application, the words "exemplarily," "for example," "for instance," etc., are used to indicate examples, illustrations, or descriptions. Any embodiment or design scheme described as an "example" in this application should not be construed as being more preferred or advantageous than other embodiments or design schemes. Specifically, the use of the word "example" is intended to present concepts in a specific manner. In the embodiments of this application, "of," "corresponding, relevant," and "corresponding" may sometimes be used interchangeably, and it should be noted that their intended meanings are consistent unless their distinction is emphasized.

[0103] 10. The embodiments of this application will be presented in the context of a system including multiple devices, components, modules, etc. It should be understood that the system may include other unmentioned devices, components, modules, etc., or may only include some of the devices, components, or modules mentioned in the embodiments. Optionally, the terms "component" and "part" in this application can be used interchangeably.

[0104] The communication system applicable to the embodiments of this application will be introduced below.

[0105] The technical solutions of this application embodiment can be applied to various communication systems, such as integrated sensing and communication (ISAC), universal mobile telecommunications system (UMTS), wireless local area network (WLAN), short-range wireless communication systems (such as sidelink, wireless fidelity, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, etc.), wired networks, vehicle to everything (V2X) communication systems, device-to-device (D2D) communication systems, vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication systems, 4th generation (4G) mobile communication systems (such as Long Term Evolution (LTE) systems), LTE frequency division duplex (FDD) systems, LTE time division duplex (TDD) systems, worldwide interoperability for microwave access (WiMAX) communication systems, and 5th generation (5G) mobile communication systems (such as New Radio). The invention relates to radio (NR) systems, future communication systems, or other similar communication systems, without limitation. This application describes the communication system shown in Figure 1 as an example. When applying the technical solutions of this application to other communication systems, the devices, components, and modules in the embodiments can be replaced with corresponding devices, components, and modules in other communication systems, without limitation.

[0106] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the architecture of the communication system applied in the embodiments of this application. As shown in Figure 1, the communication system includes an access network 100 and a core network 200. Optionally, the communication system may also include an Internet 300. The access network 100 may include at least one radio access network (RAN) node, such as 110a and 110b in Figure 1, and may also include at least one terminal device, such as 120a-120j in Figure 1. Specifically, 110a is a base station, 110b is a micro-station, 120a, 120e, 120f, and 120j are mobile phones, 120b is a car, 120c is a fuel dispenser, 120d is a home access point (HAP) deployed indoors or outdoors, 120g is a laptop computer, 120h is a printer, and 120i is a drone. The same terminal device or network device can provide different functions in different application scenarios. For example, the mobile phones in Figure 1 are 120a, 120e, 120f and 120j. Mobile phone 120a can access base station 110a, connect to car 120b, communicate directly with mobile phone 120e and access HAP. Car 120b can access HAP and communicate directly with mobile phone 120a. Mobile phone 120f can access micro-station 110b, connect to laptop 120g and printer 120h. Mobile phone 120j can control drone 120i.

[0107] A network device is a network-side device with wireless transceiver capabilities. This network device can be a unit in a radio access network (RAN) that provides wireless communication functionality to terminal devices, referred to as RAN equipment; alternatively, it can also be a core network device. For ease of understanding, the following explanation uses RAN equipment as an example. RAN can be an access network in the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP), such as 4G, 5G, or future-oriented networks. RAN can also be an open access network (O-RAN or ORAN), a cloud radio access network (CRAN), or a communication network combining two or more of these. RAN equipment can be a base station, an evolved NodeB (eNodeB), a transmission reception point (TRP), a next-generation NodeB (gNB) in a 5G mobile communication system, a base station in a future mobile communication system, an access node in a WiFi system, a wireless relay node, or a wireless backhaul node, etc.

[0108] RAN equipment can also be modules or units that perform some of the functions of a base station. For example, it can be a central unit (CU), a distributed unit (DU), or a radio unit (RU). Here, the CU performs the functions of the base station's Radio Resource Control Protocol (RRC) and Packet Data Convergence Protocol (PDCP), and can also perform the functions of the Service Data Adaptation Protocol (SDAP). The DU performs the functions of the base station's Radio Link Control (RAN) and Medium Access Control (MAC) layers, and can also perform some or all of the physical layer functions. For specific descriptions of the above protocol layers, please refer to the relevant technical specifications of the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP). The CU and DU can be set up separately or included in the same network element, such as in the baseband unit (BBU). The RU can be included in radio equipment or radio units, such as in a remote radio unit (RRU), an active antenna unit (AAU), or a remote radio head (RRH). In different systems, CU, DU, or RU may have different names, but those skilled in the art will understand their meanings. 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), and RU can also be called an open RU (O-RU). Any of the units among CU (or CU-control plane (CU-CP), or CU-user plane (CU-UP)), DU, and RU in this application can be implemented through software modules, hardware modules, or a combination of software and hardware modules. The network device can be a macro base station (as shown in Figure 1, 110a), a micro base station or an indoor station (as shown in Figure 1, 110b), or a relay node or donor node, etc. The embodiments of this application do not limit the specific technology or device form used in the network device.

[0109] In the embodiments of this application, the functions of the network device can be executed by modules (such as chips) within the network device, or by a control subsystem that includes the functions of the network device. This control subsystem, which includes the functions of the network device, can be a control center in the aforementioned application scenarios such as smart grids, industrial control, intelligent transportation, and smart cities.

[0110] A terminal device is a user-side device with wireless transceiver capabilities. Terminal devices can also be called terminals, user equipment (UE), user terminals, user devices, user units, user stations, access terminals, access stations, UE stations, remote stations, wireless communication equipment, mobile stations, or mobile terminals, etc. Terminal devices typically contain communication modules, circuits, or chips that perform corresponding communication functions. They can also be configured with program instructions for performing these functions. Terminal devices can be widely used in various scenarios, such as device-to-device (D2D), vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication, machine-to-machine (M2M) or machine-type communication (MTC), Internet of Things (IoT), virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), industrial control, self-driving, remote medical, smart grids, smart furniture, smart offices, smart wearables, smart transportation, and smart cities. Terminal devices can be mobile phones, tablets, computers with wireless transceiver capabilities, wearable devices, vehicles, drones, helicopters, airplanes, ships, robots, robotic arms, smart home devices, transportation vehicles with wireless communication capabilities, communication modules, etc.

[0111] In the embodiments of this application, the device for implementing the functions of the terminal device can be the terminal device itself, or it can be any device that supports the terminal device in implementing the functions, such as a chip system or a combination of devices or components that can implement the functions of the terminal device. This device can be installed in the terminal device. The embodiments of this application do not limit the specific technology or device form used in the terminal device.

[0112] Network devices and terminal devices can be fixed in location or mobile. They can be deployed on land, including indoors or outdoors, handheld or vehicle-mounted; they can also be deployed on water; and they can also be deployed in the air on airplanes, balloons, and artificial satellites. The embodiments of this application do not limit the application scenarios of the network devices and terminal devices.

[0113] Network devices and terminal devices can communicate via air interface protocols. The air interface can be simply referred to as the air interface. Network devices can communicate with each other via network device-to-network device interface protocols. Terminal devices can communicate with each other via licensed spectrum, unlicensed spectrum, or both simultaneously, without limitation.

[0114] The roles of network devices and terminal devices can be relative. For example, the helicopter or drone 120i in Figure 1 can be configured as a mobile network device. For terminal devices 120j that access the wireless access network 100 via 120i, terminal device 120i is a network device; however, for network device 110a, 120i is a terminal device. That is, 110a and 120i communicate via a wireless air interface protocol. Of course, 110a and 120i can also communicate via a network device-to-network device interface protocol. In this case, relative to 110a, 120i is also a network device. Therefore, both network devices and terminal devices can be collectively referred to as communication devices. 110a and 110b in Figure 1 can be called communication devices with network device functions, and 120a-120j in Figure 1 can be called communication devices with terminal device functions.

[0115] It should be noted that the communication system described in the embodiments of this application is for the purpose of more clearly illustrating the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, and does not constitute a limitation on the technical solutions provided in the embodiments of this application. As those skilled in the art will know, with the evolution of network architecture and the emergence of new business scenarios, the technical solutions provided in the embodiments of this application are also applicable to similar technical problems.

[0116] Next, the technical features related to this application will be introduced.

[0117] In mobile communication systems, the physical layer is typically designed, deployed, and managed using a base station-centric approach, as shown in Figure 2. Figure 2 illustrates an example with two network devices and three terminal devices. The two network devices are denoted as Network Device 1 and Network Device 2, and the three terminal devices are denoted as Terminal Device 1, Terminal Device 2, and Terminal Device 3. A base station-centric approach can be understood as follows: when a terminal device initially accesses the network, it connects to a cell provided by the network device. The network device configures the terminal device with relevant information about that cell and its neighboring cells. Alternatively, it can be understood as the network device configuring resources for the terminal device on a cell-by-cell basis. These resources are only used within the current cell, and reconfiguration is usually required in other cells. Optionally, a base station-centric approach can also be referred to as a network device-centric approach, or a cell-centric approach, etc., without limitation.

[0118] Centering on a base station can reduce the processing complexity of network devices and facilitate the reuse of resources such as frequencies or reference signals between different network devices. However, user experience is easily affected by the distance between the user terminal and the network device. For example, referring to terminal device 1 in Figure 2, terminal device 1 is located in the center of the cell and is relatively close to network device 1. The signal-to-noise ratio of the communication link between terminal device 1 and network device 1 is high, interference is low, and the user experience is good. As another example, referring to terminal device 2 in Figure 2, terminal device 2 is located at the edge of the cell and is relatively far from network device 1. The signal-to-noise ratio of the communication link between terminal device 2 and network device 1 is low, interference is high, and the user experience is poor.

[0119] Referring to terminal device 3 shown in Figure 2, this terminal device 3 is in a mobile state and can move from the cell provided by network device 2 to the cell provided by network device 1, triggering a cell handover process. This may lead to problems such as degraded communication quality and communication interruption, and will also affect the user experience. During the cell handover process, the terminal device and the network device need to perform cumbersome signaling interactions for mobility management and updates, which is not conducive to energy saving of the terminal device and the network device. In addition, the terminal device also needs to perform periodic synchronization operations and measurement operations, which is also not conducive to energy saving of the terminal device and the network device. Optionally, the measurement operation may include, but is not limited to, at least one of the following: cell handover-related measurements, sensing measurements, or channel measurements.

[0120] To address the cell edge issues in the aforementioned base station-centric network architecture, the concept of user-centric no-cell (UCNC) was proposed during the development of mobile communication systems. Optionally, UCNC can also be simply referred to as user-centric. The user-centric approach aims to minimize or avoid triggering cell handover processes, as shown in Figure 3. Figure 3 illustrates an example with two network devices and two terminal devices. The two network devices are denoted as Network Device 1 and Network Device 2, and the two terminal devices are denoted as Terminal Device 1 and Terminal Device 2. In one implementation, the UCNC architecture can achieve user-centricity through a hypercell, that is, aligning the frequency resources of multiple cells with the specific signal formats to be transmitted and received by user terminals, making cell handover imperceptible to users to a certain extent. Essentially, the network devices still need to perform cumbersome mobility management and updates. A hypercell essentially expands the concept of a cell, increasing the number of users to be served. Often, different user terminals are allocated different reference signal sequences and other sequence resources, leading to insufficient reference signal sequences and other sequence resources.

[0121] In the UCNC architecture, although users may not perceive cell handover to some extent, cumbersome mobility management and updates are still required, which is detrimental to energy efficiency of terminal and network devices. For example, frequent synchronization, measurement, and configuration of mobility management and updates between terminal and network devices are necessary, which is also detrimental to energy efficiency of terminal and network devices.

[0122] With the development of mobile communication technology, wireless services are growing and becoming more diverse, and users' demands for communication performance are constantly increasing. For example, in the aforementioned base station-centric or UCNC architecture, when terminal devices move between multiple cells, they need to perform cumbersome mobility management and updates, frequently performing synchronization, measurement, and configuration operations, which affects user experience and results in high power consumption for both terminal and network devices. High power consumption by terminal and network devices impacts communication performance and is detrimental to energy conservation. Therefore, improving communication performance is a current research direction.

[0123] Therefore, embodiments of this application provide a communication method and apparatus for improving communication performance. The method and apparatus described in this application are based on the same technical concept. Since the principles by which the method and apparatus solve the problem are similar, the implementations of the apparatus and method can be mutually referred to, and repeated details will not be elaborated further.

[0124] Before introducing the communication method provided in the embodiments of this application, the relevant terms involved in the embodiments of this application will be explained below. Unless otherwise specified, these explanations are for the purpose of supporting the meaning of the relevant terms and making the embodiments of this application easier to understand, and should not be regarded as a strict limitation of the relevant terms within the scope of protection claimed by this application.

[0125] 1. First transmission mode and second transmission mode

[0126] This application provides a transmission mode, referred to as the first transmission mode. The first transmission mode can be understood as: a mode in which a terminal device communicates with a network device corresponding to multiple cells through fixed resources within multiple cells; or it can also be understood as: a mode in which a terminal device communicates with a network device corresponding to multiple cells through fixed resources within an area covered by the network device corresponding to the multiple cells. Optionally, the network device corresponding to a cell can be understood as the cell being provided by a network device. The multiple cells can correspond to one network device, or they can correspond to multiple network devices, without limitation. For example, the network devices corresponding to multiple cells can be denoted as M network devices, where M is an integer greater than or equal to 1. The area covered by the M network devices can be understood as the geographical range covered by the M network devices, or it can be understood as the logical range covered by the M network devices, without limitation. For simplicity, the following description uses the area covered by the M network devices as the first area.

[0127] Optionally, the first transmission mode may also be referred to as the first communication mode, the first mode, the meta mode, the meta transmission mode, the dedicated mode, the dedicated transmission mode, the green light area mode, or the green light area transmission mode, etc. The naming of the first transmission mode is not limited in the embodiments of this application.

[0128] It is understood that the communication method provided in this application embodiment can be applied to scenarios with multiple cells or to scenarios with only one cell. The following description uses a scenario with multiple cells as an example, and the implementation process in a scenario with only one cell can refer to the implementation process in a scenario with multiple cells.

[0129] Optionally, fixed resources can be understood as resources consistent across multiple cells or a first area, or resources that do not require reconfiguration across multiple cells or a first area. For example, fixed resources may be configured identically across multiple cells, shared by multiple cells, or remain unchanged across multiple cells. For instance, fixed resources can be configured for use by at least one terminal device, which can communicate with network devices corresponding to the multiple cells through the fixed resources. Optionally, fixed resources may also be referred to as meta-resources, etc., and the naming of fixed resources is not limited in this application embodiment. Exemplarily, fixed resources may include sequence resources, or physical resources, or both sequence resources and physical resources.

[0130] The second transmission mode differs from the first transmission mode. For example, the second transmission mode can be understood as a transmission mode other than the first transmission mode. For example, the second transmission mode can be a base station-centric transmission mode. Another example is that the second transmission mode can be a transmission mode in a single-cell scenario. Optionally, the second transmission mode can also be called a second communication mode, a second mode, a non-green light area mode, a non-green light area transmission mode, or a scheduled transmission mode, etc. The naming of the second transmission mode is not limited in this application embodiment.

[0131] 2. Sequence resources and physical resources

[0132] This application provides a sequence resource, which may include (or indicate) at least one sequence. Exemplarily, the sequence resource may include, but is not limited to, at least one of the following: a random access sequence, a synchronization (SYNC) sequence, a paging sequence, a reference signal (RS) sequence, a sequence for generating a wake-up signal (WUS), a sequence for generating a hybrid automatic repeat request (HARQ) signal, or a sequence for generating data. Optionally, the sequence resource may also be referred to as a sequence set, a sequence resource pool, or a sequence pool, etc. This application does not limit the naming of the sequence resource.

[0133] It is understandable that synchronization sequences, paging sequences, random access sequences, reference signal sequences, sequences used to generate wake-up signals, sequences used to generate mixed automatic repeat request signals, and sequences used to generate data can each be referred to as a type of sequence.

[0134] Optionally, the reference signal sequence may include at least one of the following: a sounding reference signal (SRS) sequence, a demodulation reference signal (DMRS) sequence, a positioning reference signal (PSR) sequence, a phase tracking reference signal (PTRS) sequence, or a channel state information-reference signal (CSI-RS) sequence, etc. For simplicity, this application describes the embodiment using SRS as an example. It is understood that in future communication systems, the sounding reference signal may still be called SRS, or it may be named in other ways, without limitation.

[0135] This application provides a physical resource that can be used to carry sequence resources. For example, the physical resource can carry sequence resources within multiple cells. Alternatively, the physical resource can carry sequence resources within a first area. Optionally, carrying sequence resources can be replaced by carrying at least one sequence included in the sequence resources. Optionally, the physical resource can also carry data, etc., within multiple cells or the first area, without limitation.

[0136] For example, physical resources may include time-domain resources, frequency-domain resources, or both. For instance, a physical resource may occupy the entire bandwidth in the frequency domain and a portion of the time-domain resources; or, a physical resource may occupy a portion of the bandwidth in the frequency domain and a portion of the time-domain resources; or, a physical resource may occupy a portion of the bandwidth in the frequency domain and all of the time-domain resources. For ease of understanding, this application uses the example of a physical resource occupying a portion of the bandwidth in the frequency domain. Optionally, this physical resource may also be called a dedicated resource, a meta-bandwidth part (BWP), or a dedicated BWP, etc. The naming of physical resources is not limited in this application embodiment. The following description uses a meta-BWP as an example of a physical resource. Optionally, the meta-BWP may be called a meta-BWP, without limitation. Optionally, the first transmission mode can be understood as a mode in which terminal devices in multiple cells or a first area communicate with M network devices through a meta-BWP (e.g., perform sequence resource transmission).

[0137] In one example, the meta-BWP can occupy the same frequency domain resources in different time units. For example, the meta-BWP occupies the same frequency domain resources in different time units, is continuous in both the frequency and time domains, as shown in (1) of Figure 4. Another example is that the meta-BWP occupies the same frequency domain resources in different time units, is continuous in both the frequency and time domains, as shown in (2) of Figure 4. Yet another example is that the meta-BWP occupies the same frequency domain resources in different time units, is discontinuous in both the frequency and time domains, as shown in (3) of Figure 4. And yet another example is that the meta-BWP occupies the same frequency domain resources in different time units, is discontinuous in both the frequency and time domains, as shown in (4) of Figure 4.

[0138] In another example, the meta-BWP can occupy different frequency domain resources at different time units. For example, the meta-BWP occupies different frequency domain resources at different time units, being continuous in both the frequency and time domains, as shown in Figure 5(1). Another example is that the meta-BWP occupies different frequency domain resources at different time units, being continuous in both the frequency and time domains, as shown in Figure 5(2). Yet another example is that the meta-BWP occupies different frequency domain resources at different time units, being discontinuous in both the frequency and time domains, as shown in Figure 5(3). And yet another example is that the meta-BWP occupies different frequency domain resources at different time units, being discontinuous in both the frequency and time domains, as shown in Figure 5(4).

[0139] It is understandable that the meta-BWP time-frequency patterns shown in Figures 4 and 5 are examples and do not impose restrictions on the meta-BWP time-frequency patterns.

[0140] Optionally, a meta BWP can be divided into uplink meta BWPs and downlink meta BWPs. The uplink meta BWP can be used for uplink transmission between the terminal device and M network devices. For example, the uplink meta BWP can occupy the same frequency domain resources in different time units, or it can occupy different frequency domain resources in different time units. For specific implementation details, please refer to the meta BWP description; further details will not be elaborated here. The downlink meta BWP can be used for downlink transmission between the terminal device and M network devices. For example, the downlink meta BWP can occupy the same frequency domain resources in different time units, or the uplink meta BWP can occupy different frequency domain resources in different time units. For specific implementation details, please refer to the meta BWP description; further details will not be elaborated here.

[0141] Optionally, the meta-BWP time-frequency pattern can be predefined, determined based on pre-agreed information (e.g., formulas or parameters), or configured by the network device; there are no restrictions. For example, the network device can send the meta-BWP configuration information to the terminal device; correspondingly, the terminal device receives the meta-BWP configuration information from the network device. The meta-BWP configuration information can be used to determine the meta-BWP time-frequency pattern. Optionally, the meta-BWP configuration information can be carried by the master information block (MIB); or, the meta-BWP configuration information can be carried by the system information block (SIB); or, the meta-BWP configuration information can also be carried by higher-layer signaling; there are no restrictions. Optionally, the MIB can be carried by the physical broadcast channel (PBCH). Optionally, the SIB can be carried by the physical downlink shared channel (PDSCH). Optionally, the higher-layer signaling can be radio resource control (RRC) signaling, or medium access control-control element (MAC-CE) signaling, etc., without restriction.

[0142] The time unit in this application embodiment can be one or more symbols, one or more time slots, one or more mini-slots, one or more sub-frames, or one or more frames, etc. This application embodiment does not limit the implementation form of the time unit. Furthermore, multiple time units can be continuous in time or discrete, without limitation.

[0143] 3. First access method and second access method

[0144] This application provides an access method, denoted as the first access method. The first access method can be understood as the access method corresponding to a first transmission mode. For example, a terminal device can obtain configuration information of the first transmission mode through the first access method, and / or, the terminal device can use (or access, or enter) the first transmission mode through the first access method. For example, the first access method can be initial access, which can be used to obtain configuration information of the first transmission mode. Another example is that the first access method can be non-initial access, which can be used to access (or enter, or switch to, etc.) the first transmission mode. Yet another example is that the first access method can include both initial access and non-initial access, which can be used to obtain configuration information of the first transmission mode and access the first transmission mode.

[0145] Optionally, the first access method may also be called meta-access or dedicated access method, etc. The naming of the first access method is not limited in the embodiments of this application.

[0146] The second access method differs from the first access method. For example, the second access method can be understood as an access method other than the first access method. For example, the second access method can be the access method corresponding to the second transmission mode. For example, the second access method can be an access method centered on the base station.

[0147] 4. W sequence

[0148] For example, some or all of the sequences in the embodiments of this application can be generated based on the W sequence. The W sequence has low ambiguity, which makes the sequence resources obtained based on the W sequence have good robustness. Based on the W sequence, more sequence resources can be obtained, which is conducive to realizing the expansion of sequence resources, improving the problem of insufficient sequence resources, and providing services to more users.

[0149] The sequence W can be determined by a first length and a second length. The first length can be interpreted as the mapping length of the sequence, the transmission length of the sequence, the actual length of the sequence, or the generation length of the sequence, etc., without restriction. The second length can be interpreted as the length of the sequence within a generation period, or the length of the sequence within a complete period, etc., without restriction. For example, let the first length be denoted as N, and the second length as P, where N is an integer greater than 1, and P is an integer greater than 1.

[0150] For example, the W sequence can satisfy the following formula (1).

[0151] Where x(n) is the W sequence, e is a constant, π is pi, j is the imaginary unit, and j 2= -1. n is an integer greater than 0 and less than or equal to N, or n is an integer greater than or equal to 0 and less than or equal to (N - 1), where N is the first length. P is the second length. p(n) can be a polynomial of the highest degree d, where d is an integer greater than or equal to 0. For example, p(n) can be understood as the generating polynomial of x(n).

[0152] Exemplarily, p(n) can satisfy the following formula (2). p(n) = p d n d + p d-1 n d-1 + … + p1n + p0 Formula (2)

[0153] where p i can be called the coefficient of the i-th term, where i is an integer greater than 0 and less than or equal to d. For example, assuming d > 1, p d is not 0, p d can be called the coefficient of the highest-degree term, p d-1 can be called the coefficient of the second-highest-degree term, and p1 can be called the coefficient of the first-degree term.

[0154] The sequence of the first P terms generated according to formula (1) and formula (2) is called a generation period, or a complete period. Optionally, the first length and the second length can be equal, or they can also be unequal. For example, if the first length and the second length are equal, that is, N = P, then just take the sequence within one generation period for mapping. Another example, if the first length is less than the second length, that is, N < P, then the sequence of the first N terms within one generation period can be taken for mapping. Still another example, if the first length is greater than the second length, that is, N > P, then the sequence within one generation period and the sequence of the first (N - P) terms within one generation period can be taken for mapping.

[0155] As an example, assume P = 5, and the sequence within one generation period is denoted as {x1, x2, x3, x4, x5}. If N = 5, then {x1, x2, x3, x4, x5} can be taken for mapping. Or, if N = 3, then {x1, x2, x3} can be taken for mapping. Or, if N = 7, then {x1, x2, x3, x4, x5, x1, x2} can be taken for mapping.

[0156] Optionally, the value of the second length can be a prime number. That is, the value of P can be a prime number. Compared with the case where the value of P is a composite number, when the value of P is a prime number, it cannot be divided by other natural numbers, so that when d is the same and the length of the sequence meets certain conditions, more sequences with good autocorrelation and cross-correlation can be generated, thus more users can be served and the capacity can be expanded.

[0157] As mentioned above, d is an integer greater than or equal to 0. In one example, d = 2, that is, the highest-order term of the W sequence can be a quadratic term. For example, with d = 2, the W sequence can satisfy the following formula (3).

[0158] In another example, d = 3, that is, the highest-order term of the W sequence can be a cubic term. For example, with d = 3, the W sequence can satisfy the following formula (4).

[0159] In another example, d = 4, that is, the highest degree term of the W sequence can be a fourth degree term. For example, with d = 4, the W sequence can satisfy the following formula (5).

[0160] Where Q is the number of cyclic shifts in the time domain, θ is a constant, and α, μ, γ, and τ are all integers. For example, α can be an integer greater than or equal to 0 and less than or equal to (P-1). For example, μ can be an integer greater than or equal to 0 and less than or equal to (P-1). For example, γ can be an integer greater than or equal to 0 and less than or equal to (P-1). For example, τ can be an integer greater than or equal to 0 and less than or equal to (Q-1). The remaining parameters in formulas (3) to (5) can be referred to the description in formula (1), and will not be repeated here.

[0161] It is understood that the above formulas (3) to (5) are examples and are not limited to these. For example, d can also be 1, or 5, or any other integer other than 2, 3, and 4. Exemplarily, the larger the value of d, the more terms the polynomial used in the W sequence has, and the more different sequences can be generated based on the W sequence.

[0162] The communication method provided in the embodiments of this application will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. This method can be applied to the communication systems shown in Figure 1 or Figure 3, but is not limited thereto. The embodiments of this application use the interaction between a terminal device and a first network device and a second network device as an example for explanation. It is understood that the communication method provided in the embodiments of this application can also be applied to end-to-end communication scenarios such as V2X and D2D. The implementation process can be referred to the following description of the communication between the terminal device and the network device in the embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0163] Among them, the first network device and the second network device belong to M network devices. Optionally, the first network device and the second network device can be the same network device, or they can be two different network devices. Unless otherwise specified, the following example illustrates that the first network device and the second network device are two different network devices.

[0164] Unless otherwise specified, the term "terminal device" in this application can refer to the terminal device itself, a component within the terminal device (e.g., a processor, circuit, chip, or chip system), or a logic module or software capable of implementing all or part of the terminal device's functions. Similarly, unless otherwise specified, the term "first network device" in this application can refer to the first network device itself, a component within the first network device (e.g., a processor, circuit, chip, or chip system), or a logic module or software capable of implementing all or part of the first network device's functions. Unless otherwise specified, the term "second network device" in this application can refer to the second network device itself, a component within the second network device (e.g., a processor, circuit, chip, or chip system), or a logic module or software capable of implementing all or part of the second network device's functions.

[0165] It is understood that in the embodiments of this application, the terminal device, the first network device, or the second network device may execute some or all of the steps in the embodiments of this application. These steps or operations are merely examples, and the embodiments of this application may also execute other operations or variations thereof. Furthermore, the various steps may be executed in different orders as presented in the embodiments of this application, and it is not necessarily necessary to execute all the operations in the embodiments of this application.

[0166] Figure 6 is a flowchart illustrating a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 6, the method may include the following steps.

[0167] S601: The first network device sends a first message. For example, the first network device may send a first message to a terminal device.

[0168] The terminal device receives the first message. For example, the terminal device may receive the first message from the first network device.

[0169] S601 is an optional step, indicated by dashed lines in Figure 6. Here, the cell corresponding to the first network device belongs to multiple cells, or the first network device belongs to M network devices, or the multiple cells include the cell corresponding to the first network device. Optionally, the first message can be a configuration message for a first transmission mode, such as the first message carrying configuration information for the first transmission mode.

[0170] The first message may include at least one of the following: a first identifier, information indicating at least one sequence, or a first resource. Optionally, the information indicating at least one sequence may be a set of sequence identifiers, a table of sequence identifiers, etc. This application embodiment does not limit the implementation form of the information indicating at least one sequence. For example, the information indicating at least one sequence may be one or more sets, one or more tables, or an identifier range, etc., without limitation.

[0171] For the sake of brevity, the following description uses the example of a first set of information used to indicate at least one sequence. In other words, the first set is used to indicate at least one sequence. It is understood that in the following text, "first set" can be replaced with "at least one sequence" or "information used to indicate at least one sequence," "sequence indicated by the first set" can be replaced with "at least one sequence," and "at least one sequence indicated by the first set" can be replaced with "at least one sequence." Accordingly, the first message may include at least one of a first identifier, a first set, or a first resource.

[0172] The first identifier, the first set, and the first resource are introduced below.

[0173] (1) The first identifier, also known as the UE identifier (ID), is not limited in its naming in this embodiment. The first identifier can be used to identify the terminal device in multiple cells; or, the first identifier can identify the terminal device in a first area; or, the first identifier can be used to identify the terminal device in a first transmission mode; or, the first identifier can be used to identify the context of the terminal device in the first transmission mode; or, the first identifier can be used to identify the context of the terminal device under a first access method; or, the first identifier can identify the context of the terminal device in multiple cells or within a first area. Optionally, the context of the terminal device may include a first set and / or a first resource.

[0174] Optionally, the first identifier can be used to uniquely identify the terminal device in multiple cells or a first area; or, the first identifier can be used to uniquely identify the terminal device in a first transmission mode; or, the first identifier can be used to uniquely identify the context of the terminal device in the first transmission mode; or, the first identifier can be used to uniquely identify the context of the terminal device in a first access method; or, the first identifier can identify the context of the terminal device in multiple cells or a first area. For example, the first identifier can be a unique UE ID, used as an ID for scheduling the terminal device in multiple cells or a first area, or as an ID for scheduling the terminal device in the first transmission mode, or as an ID for scheduling the terminal device in the first access method.

[0175] Optionally, the first identifier can also be used to identify multiple terminal devices. For example, the first identifier can be the identifier of a group of UEs. For example, the first identifier can be used to identify the multiple terminal devices in multiple cells or a first area; or, the first identifier can be used to identify the multiple terminal devices in a first transmission mode; or, the first identifier can be used to identify the context of the multiple terminal devices in the first transmission mode; or, the first identifier can identify the context of the multiple terminal devices in multiple cells or a first area; or, the first identifier can be used to identify the context of the multiple terminal devices under a first access method.

[0176] Optionally, the first identifier can be used to page terminal devices in multiple cells or within a first area.

[0177] In one possible implementation, the first identifier can be determined by the radio network temporary identity (RNTI) of the terminal device. Exemplarily, the first identifier can be an identifier obtained by extending the RNTI of the terminal device. For example, the first identifier can be denoted as extended-RNTI (E-RNTI). Exemplarily, the length of the E-RNTI of different terminal devices can be the same or different. For example, the length of the E-RNTI can dynamically change according to the number of users using the first transmission mode in multiple cells or a first area. Optionally, the length of the already allocated E-RNTI has no effect on the length of subsequently allocated E-RNTIs.

[0178] In one example, the first identifier can be determined by the identifier of the first cell and the RNTI of the terminal device. For example, the first identifier includes the identifier of the first cell and the RNTI of the terminal device. The first cell may belong to multiple cells. For example, the first cell may be the cell corresponding to the first network device, or the cell from which initial access was made, or any of the multiple cells other than the cell from which initial access was made; there is no restriction. For example, the first identifier may include some or all of the information in the identifier of the first cell and some or all of the information in the RNTI of the terminal device. For instance, the first identifier may include the identifier of the first cell and X bits truncated from the RNTI of the terminal device, where X is a positive integer. This truncated X bits can identify the terminal device in multiple cells without using the complete RNTI and cell identifier, which helps save transmission resources.

[0179] Another example is that the first identifier can also be determined by the identifier of the first region and the RNTI of the terminal device. For example, the first identifier includes the identifier of the first region and the RNTI of the terminal device. For example, the first identifier may include some or all of the information in the identifier of the first region and some or all of the information in the RNTI of the terminal device. For instance, the first identifier may include the identifier of the first region and a truncated Y bit from the RNTI of the terminal device, where Y is a positive integer. This truncated Y bit can identify the terminal device within the first region without using the complete RNTI and region identifier, which helps save transmission resources. The first region is described above and will not be repeated here.

[0180] In another example, the first identifier can also be determined by the identifier of the first cell, the identifier of the first area, and the RNTI of the terminal device. For example, the first identifier includes the identifier of the first cell, the identifier of the first area, and the RNTI of the terminal device. For example, the first identifier includes some or all of the information in the identifier of the first cell, some or all of the information in the identifier of the first area, and some or all of the information in the RNTI of the terminal device. For example, the first identifier may include the identifier of the first cell, the identifier of the first area, and a Z bit truncated from the RNTI of the terminal device, where Z is a positive integer. This truncated Z bit can identify the terminal device in the first area and multiple cells without using the complete RNTI, cell identifier, and area identifier, which helps to save transmission resources. The first cell and the first area are described above and will not be repeated here.

[0181] Optionally, the first identifier can be configured by the first network device, or it can be predefined, without restriction.

[0182] (2) A first set may be used to indicate at least one sequence. For example, the first set may include an identifier of at least one sequence. The at least one sequence belongs to the aforementioned sequence resources. For example, the at least one sequence indicated by the first set may be understood as: a sequence resource configured by the first network device for a terminal device; or as: a sequence resource configured by the first network device for a terminal device for transmission in multiple cells or a first area. Exemplarily, the at least one sequence may include at least one of the following: a random access sequence, a SYNC sequence, a paging sequence, an RS sequence, a sequence for generating WUS, a sequence for generating HARQ signals, or a sequence for generating data.

[0183] In one possible implementation, the first set indicating at least one sequence may include at least one random access sequence, which can be used to initiate random access. For example, the at least one random access sequence can be used by the terminal device to initiate random access in multiple cells or a first area. Optionally, the random access initiated by the at least one random access sequence can be a non-contention-based random access. Optionally, the at least one random access sequence can also be used to obtain the terminal device's identity information (e.g., UE ID). Optionally, the at least one random access sequence can also be used to determine the cell where the terminal device is located. Optionally, the at least one random access sequence can be used to carry a scheduling request (SR) and / or a buffer status report (BSR).

[0184] In one possible implementation, the at least one sequence indicated by the first set may include at least one random access sequence, which can be generated based on a W sequence. The W sequence is described in the terminology section and will not be repeated here. For example, the terminal device can determine random access sequences supporting transmission in multiple cells or a first area based on the W sequence. These random access sequences supporting transmission in multiple cells or a first area include at least one random access sequence indicated by the first set. Optionally, the terminal device can determine random access sequences supporting transmission in multiple cells or a first area based on relevant parameters of the W sequence. In this implementation, the at least one random access sequence indicated by the first set is generated based on the W sequence, which has low ambiguity, making the random access sequences obtained based on the W sequence more robust. Furthermore, more random access sequences can be obtained based on the W sequence, which is beneficial for expanding sequence resources, alleviating the problem of insufficient sequence resources, and providing services to more users.

[0185] The parameters of the W sequence may include at least one of the following: a first length, a second length, Q, θ, or at least one coefficient. Optionally, at least one coefficient can be understood as the coefficient of the polynomial or the coefficient of the one-terminal used to generate at least one random access sequence. Please refer to the terminology introduction for Q and θ, which will not be repeated here. For example, if d = 2, at least one coefficient may include at least one of the following: γ or τ, as shown in formula (3). For another example, if d = 3, at least one coefficient may include at least one of the following: μ, γ, or τ, as shown in formula (4). For yet another example, if d = 4, at least one coefficient may include at least one of the following: α, μ, γ, or τ, as shown in formula (5). Please refer to the aforementioned terminology introduction for the descriptions of the first length, the second length, Q, θ, α, μ, γ, and τ, which will not be repeated here.

[0186] Optionally, the parameters related to the W sequence can be predefined, configured by the network device (e.g., the first network device), or some parameters can be predefined while the remaining parameters are configured by the network device (e.g., the first network device), without restriction. For example, the parameters related to the W sequence can be carried by the SIB, or by the MIB, or by higher-layer signaling, without restriction. This higher-layer signaling can be, for example, RRC signaling or MAC-CE signaling, without restriction.

[0187] In one implementation, the highest-order term of the W sequence used to generate multiple random access sequences can be a quadratic term, as shown in formula (3); or, the highest-order term of the W sequence used to generate multiple random access sequences can also be a cubic term, as shown in formula (4); or, the highest-order term of the W sequence used to generate multiple random access sequences can also be a quartic term, as shown in formula (5), without limitation. Optionally, the highest-order term of the W sequence used to generate multiple random access sequences can be replaced with: the highest-order term used when generating multiple random access sequences based on the W sequence.

[0188] In one implementation, the highest-order term used when generating multiple random access sequences based on the W sequence can be different or the same. The correlation between multiple random access sequences generated using the same highest-order term is better than the correlation between multiple random access sequences generated using different highest-order terms, which is beneficial for achieving better detection performance.

[0189] In one implementation, at least one of the multiple terms used in generating the plurality of random access sequences based on the W sequence, excluding the highest-order term, can be different. Optionally, the second-highest-order terms used in generating the plurality of random access sequences based on the W sequence are different, and / or, the first-order terms used in generating the plurality of random access sequences based on the W sequence are different. For example, the highest-order term used in generating the plurality of random access sequences based on the W sequence is the same, the second-highest-order terms used in generating the plurality of random access sequences based on the W sequence are different, and the first-order terms used in generating the plurality of random access sequences based on the W sequence are the same. Yet another example, the highest-order term used in generating the plurality of random access sequences based on the W sequence is the same, the second-highest-order terms used in generating the plurality of random access sequences based on the W sequence are the same, and the first-order terms used in generating the plurality of random access sequences based on the W sequence are different. Still another example, the highest-order term used in generating the plurality of random access sequences based on the W sequence is the same, the second-highest-order terms used in generating the plurality of random access sequences based on the W sequence are different, and the first-order terms used in generating the plurality of random access sequences based on the W sequence are different. In this embodiment, the different second-highest-order terms used when generating multiple random access sequences based on the W sequence allow the receiver to detect the received random access sequence by either the correlation position in the time domain or the frequency domain correlation peak position after the inverse fast fourier transform (IFFT), thus reducing detection complexity. Similarly, the different first-order terms used when generating multiple random access sequences based on the W sequence allow the receiver to detect the received random access sequence by either the correlation position in the time domain or the time domain correlation peak position after the IFFT, further reducing detection complexity.

[0190] Optionally, the term "same highest-order term" can be replaced with "same highest-order term coefficient". "same second-highest-order term" can be replaced with "same second-highest-order term coefficient". The term "different second-highest-order term" can be replaced with "different second-highest-order term coefficient". "different first-order term" can be replaced with "different first-order term coefficient".

[0191] For example, suppose that the first set indicates that the multiple random access sequences include random access sequence 1 and random access sequence 2, denoted as x1(n) and x2(n) respectively, and the generator polynomials corresponding to x1(n) and x2(n) are denoted as p1(n) and p2(n) respectively. The highest-order coefficients in p1(n) and p2(n) are the same, while the second-highest-order coefficients are different. This allows the receiver to detect whether the received sequence is x1(n) or x2(n) by the correlation position in the time domain or the position of the correlation peak in the frequency domain after the IFFT. Alternatively, the highest-order coefficients in p1(n) and p2(n) are the same, the second-highest-order coefficients are the same, and the first-order coefficients are different. Again, the receiver can detect whether the received sequence is x1(n) or x2(n) by the correlation position in the time domain or the position of the correlation peak in the time domain after the IFFT. Furthermore, the highest-order coefficients in p1(n) and p2(n) are the same, the second-highest-order coefficients are different, and the first-order coefficients are also different. This allows the receiver to detect whether the received sequence is x1(n) or x2(n) by the correlation position in the time domain or the position of the correlation peak in the frequency domain and / or the correlation peak in the time domain after the IFFT. It is understandable that the receiver's detection result can also indicate that the received sequence is neither x1(n) nor x2(n).

[0192] Optionally, the first set can be configured by the first network device, or it can be predefined without restriction.

[0193] (3) A first resource can be used to carry a sequence indicated by a first set. For example, the first resource can be used to carry a sequence indicated by a first set in multiple cells or a first area. For example, the first resource can be used to carry at least one random access sequence indicated by a first set in multiple cells or a first area. Exemplarily, the first resource belongs to the aforementioned meta-BWP. For example, the first resource can be understood as: a physical resource configured by the first network device for a terminal device to transmit sequence resources in multiple cells or a first area. Optionally, the first resource can be consistent in multiple cells or a first area; or, the first resource can be the same (or configured the same) in multiple cells or a first area; or, the first resource can remain unchanged (or its configuration remains unchanged) in multiple cells or a first area; or, the first resource does not need to be reconfigured in multiple cells or a first area; or, the first resource is shared by multiple cells or a first area. For example, the first resource can be configured for use by at least one terminal device, which can communicate with the network devices corresponding to the multiple cells through the first resource. Optionally, the first resource is a meta-BWP, or the first resource is a part of a meta-BWP.

[0194] For example, the frequency domain resources occupied by the first resource in different time units may be the same, or the frequency domain resources occupied by the first resource in different time units may be different; the first resource may be continuous in the frequency domain, or the first resource may be discontinuous in the frequency domain; the first resource may be continuous in the time domain, or the first resource may be discontinuous in the time domain. For details, please refer to the description of the meta-BWP, which will not be repeated here.

[0195] Optionally, it is assumed that the sequence indicated by the first set includes a first random access sequence and a second random access sequence. The resources carrying the first random access sequence and the resources carrying the second random access sequence may be the same, or the resources carrying the first random access sequence and the resources carrying the second random access sequence may be different.

[0196] Optionally, the first resource can be configured by the first network device, or it can be predefined without restriction.

[0197] Optionally, the first message may also include other information. For example, if the sequence indicated by the first set includes at least one random access sequence, the first message may also include information indicating a first sub-resource, which is used to carry the at least one random access sequence indicated by the first set and belongs to the first resource. As another example, if the sequence indicated by the first set includes at least one paging sequence, the first message may also include information indicating a second sub-resource, which is used to carry the at least one paging sequence indicated by the first set and belongs to the first resource. Yet another example, if the sequence indicated by the first set includes at least one synchronization sequence, the first message may also include information indicating a third sub-resource, which is used to carry the at least one synchronization sequence indicated by the first set and belongs to the first resource.

[0198] As mentioned above, the first set can be predefined or configured by the first network device. The first resource can be predefined or configured by the first network device. In one possible implementation, at least one of the first set or the first resource can be associated with a first identifier. For example, the terminal device can determine the first set and / or the first resource based on the first identifier. These will be described separately below.

[0199] 1. The first set is associated with the first identifier.

[0200] The association of the first set with the first identifier can be understood as follows: the identifier of at least one sequence indicated by the first set is determined by the first identifier. Accordingly, the terminal device can determine the first set based on the first identifier. Optionally, the identifiers of some or all of the sequences in the at least one sequence indicated by the first set can be determined by the first identifier. For example, the sequences indicated by the first set include at least one random access sequence, and the identifier of the at least one random access sequence can be determined by the first identifier. Accordingly, the terminal device can determine the identifier of the at least one random access sequence indicated by the first set based on the first identifier.

[0201] In one embodiment, the identifier of at least one random access sequence indicated by the first set can be determined by a first identifier and first information. Accordingly, the terminal device can determine the identifier of at least one random access sequence indicated by the first set based on the first identifier and the first information. The first information may include the number of at least one random access sequence indicated by the first set, or may include a first quantity, or may include both the number of at least one random access sequence indicated by the first set and the first quantity.

[0202] The first quantity can be understood as: the number of random access sequences that support transmission in multiple cells or a first area; or it can be understood as: the total number of random access sequences that can be used in multiple cells or a first area; or it can be understood as: the total number of random access sequences that can be used in the first transmission mode; or it can be understood as: the total number of random access sequences that can be used to generate random access messages in the first transmission mode. The random access sequences that support transmission in multiple cells or a first area include at least one random access sequence indicated by the first set.

[0203] For example, the identifier of at least one random access sequence indicated by the first set can be determined by a first identifier, first information, and a first mapping function. Accordingly, the terminal device can determine the identifier of at least one random access sequence indicated by the first set based on the first identifier, first information, and first mapping function. For example, the terminal device can substitute the first identifier and first information into the first mapping function to obtain the identifier of at least one random access sequence indicated by the first set. Optionally, the first mapping function can make the identifiers of multiple random access sequences different; in other words, the identifiers of multiple random access sequences determined based on the first mapping function are different. Optionally, the first mapping function can be predefined or configured by a network device (e.g., a first network device), without limitation. For example, the relevant information of the first mapping function can be carried by an SIB, or by a MIB, or by higher-layer signaling, without limitation. For higher-layer signaling, please refer to the foregoing content, which is not limited.

[0204] In one example, the identifier of at least one random access sequence indicated by the first set can satisfy the following formula (6). PRACH id =f PRACH Formula (6) (E_RNTI,X,y)

[0205] Among them, PRACH id E_RNTI is the identifier of at least one random access sequence indicated by the first set, X is the number of random access sequences supported for transmission in multiple cells or a first area, y is the number of at least one random access sequence indicated by the first set, and f is the identifier of at least one random access sequence indicated by the first set. PRACH (·) is the first mapping function.

[0206] For example, the f PRACH (·) can satisfy: Where mod(·) is the modulo operation. This is for rounding down.

[0207] In another example, the identifier of at least one random access sequence indicated by the first set can satisfy the following formula (7). PRACH id =f PRACH (E_RNTI,X) Formula (7)

[0208] Among them, PRACH id E_RNTI is the identifier of at least one random access sequence indicated by the first set, where E_RNTI is the first identifier, X is the number of random access sequences supported for transmission in multiple cells or the first area, and f is the identifier of at least one random access sequence indicated by the first set. PRACH (·) is the first mapping function.

[0209] For example, the f PRACH (·) can satisfy: in, This is for rounding down.

[0210] Optionally, assuming there are multiple random access sequences that can be transmitted across multiple cells or a first area, a first correspondence may exist between the identifiers of the multiple random access sequences and the relevant parameters of the W sequence. This first correspondence may be predefined or configured by the network device (e.g., the first network device), without limitation. For example, the information of the first correspondence may be carried by the SIB, or by the MIB, or by higher-layer signaling, without limitation.

[0211] In one example, the multiple random access sequences include a first random access sequence and a second random access sequence. The first correspondence relationship can be: the identifier of the first random access sequence is less than the identifier of the second random access sequence, and the first parameter used to generate the first random access sequence is also less than the first parameter used to generate the second random access sequence. This first parameter belongs to the relevant parameters of the W sequence. For example, the first parameter can be the coefficient of the i-th term used when generating the multiple random access sequences, where i is an integer greater than 0 and less than or equal to d.

[0212] For example, the identifier of the first random access sequence is denoted as id1, and the identifier of the second random access sequence is denoted as id2. The highest-degree term of the random access sequence generated based on the W sequence is a cubic term, as shown in formula (4). The first parameter is the coefficient of the cubic term. The first parameter used to generate the first random access sequence is denoted as μ1, and the first parameter used to generate the second random access sequence is denoted as μ2. Then the first correspondence relationship can be: id1 < id2, μ1 < μ2; or, the first parameter is the coefficient of the quadratic term. The first parameter used to generate the first random access sequence is denoted as γ1, and the first parameter used to generate the second random access sequence is denoted as γ2. Then the first correspondence relationship can be id1 < id2, μ1 = μ2, γ1 < γ2; or, the first parameter is the coefficient of the linear term. The first parameter used to generate the first random access sequence is denoted as τ1, and the first parameter used to generate the second random access sequence is denoted as τ2. Then the first correspondence relationship can be id1 < id2, μ1 = μ2, γ1 = γ2, τ1 < τ2.

[0213] In another example, the multiple random access sequences include a first random access sequence and a second random access sequence. The first correspondence relationship can be: the identifier of the first random access sequence is less than the identifier of the second random access sequence, and the first parameter used to generate the first random access sequence is greater than the first parameter used to generate the second random access sequence. This first parameter belongs to the relevant parameters of the W sequence. For example, the first parameter can be the coefficient of the i-th term used when generating the multiple random access sequences, where i is an integer greater than 0 and less than or equal to d.

[0214] For example, the identifier of the first random access sequence is denoted as id1, and the identifier of the second random access sequence is denoted as id2. The highest-degree term of the random access sequence generated based on the W sequence is a quadratic term, as shown in formula (3). The first parameter is the coefficient of the quadratic term. The first parameter used to generate the first random access sequence is denoted as γ1, and the first parameter used to generate the second random access sequence is denoted as γ2. Then the first correspondence relationship can be id1 < id2, γ1 > γ2; or, the first parameter is the coefficient of the linear term. The first parameter used to generate the first random access sequence is denoted as τ1, and the first parameter used to generate the second random access sequence is denoted as τ2. Then the first correspondence relationship can be id1 < id2, γ1 = γ2, τ1 > τ2.

[0215] 2. The first resource is associated with the first identifier.

[0216] The association of a first resource with a first identifier can be understood as follows: the first resource is determined by the first identifier. Accordingly, the terminal device can determine the first resource based on the first identifier. Optionally, the identifiers of some or all of the resources in the first resource can be determined by the first identifier. For example, the identifier of at least one resource can be determined by the first identifier; this at least one resource belongs to the first resource and can be used to carry at least one random access sequence indicated by a first set. Accordingly, the terminal device can determine the resource used to carry at least one random access sequence based on the first identifier.

[0217] In one embodiment, the identifier of at least one resource can be determined by a first identifier and second information. Accordingly, the terminal device can determine the identifier of at least one resource based on the first identifier and the second information. The second information may include the quantity of the at least one resource, or a second quantity, or both the quantity of at least one resource and the second quantity. The second quantity can be understood as the quantity of resources used to carry random access sequences supporting transmission in multiple cells or a first area. The resources used to carry random access sequences supporting transmission in multiple cells or a first area include at least one random access resource used to carry at least one random access sequence indicated by a first set.

[0218] For example, the identifier of the at least one resource can be determined by a first identifier, second information, and a second mapping function. Accordingly, the terminal device can determine the identifier of at least one resource based on the first identifier, second information, and second mapping relationship. For example, the terminal device can substitute the first identifier and second information into the second mapping function to obtain the identifier of at least one resource. Optionally, the second mapping function can ensure that the identifiers of resources corresponding to the same sequence of identifiers are different for different terminal devices. In other words, for different terminal devices, if the same sequence is configured, the identifiers of multiple resources determined based on the second mapping function are different. Optionally, the second mapping function can be predefined or configured by a network device (e.g., a first network device), without limitation. For example, the relevant information of the second mapping function can be carried by the SIB, or by the MIB, or by higher-layer signaling, without limitation.

[0219] In one example, the identifier of at least one resource can satisfy the following formula (8). R id =g PRACH (E_RNTI,K) Formula (8)

[0220] Among them, R idFor at least one resource identifier, E_RNTI is the first identifier, K is the number of resources used to carry random access sequences supporting transmission in multiple cells or a first area, and g is the number of resources used to carry random access sequences supporting transmission in multiple cells or a first area. PRACH (·) is the second mapping function.

[0221] For example, the g PRACH (·) can satisfy: in, This is for rounding down.

[0222] In another example, the identifier of at least one resource can satisfy the following formula (9).

[0223] R id =g PRACH (E_RNTI,K,z) Formula (9)

[0224] Among them, R id For at least one resource, E_RNTI is the first identifier, K is the number of resources used to carry random access sequences supporting transmission in multiple cells or a first area, z is the number of resources used to carry at least one random access sequence indicated by a first set, and g is the number of resources used to carry at least one random access sequence indicated by a first set. PRACH (·) is the second mapping function.

[0225] For example, the g PRACH (·) can satisfy: Where mod(·) is the modulo operation. This is for rounding down.

[0226] In the above implementation, at least one of the first set or the first resource can be associated with the first identifier, so that the terminal device can determine the first set and / or the first resource based on the first identifier, which can reduce signaling interaction and save network resources.

[0227] In one possible implementation, the first network device can send a second message; correspondingly, the terminal device can receive the second message. The second message can be used to indicate whether the first network device supports a first transmission mode, and / or whether the first network device supports a first access method. Optionally, the second message can be carried by the MIB, or by the SIB, or by higher-layer signaling, without limitation. For example, the first network device can send the second message before sending the first message. In one example, the second message indicates that the first network device does not support the first transmission mode, and the terminal device can determine not to use the first transmission mode. For example, the second message indicates that the first network device does not support the first transmission mode, and the terminal device can determine to use the second transmission mode. In another example, the second message indicates that the first network device supports the first transmission mode, and the terminal device can determine to use the first transmission mode. In yet another example, the second message indicates that the first network device does not support the first access method, and the terminal device can determine not to use (or not to employ) the first access method. For example, the second message indicates that the first network device does not support the first access method, and the terminal device can determine to use (or employ) the second access method. In another example, the second message indicates that the first network device supports the first access method, and the terminal device can determine to use (or adopt) the first access method. This application embodiment describes an example where the second message indicates that the first network device supports the first transmission mode and / or the first access method.

[0228] Optionally, the second transmission mode can be replaced by: access (or request access, or enter, or cut in, or request cut in, etc.) second transmission mode. Optionally, the first transmission mode can be replaced by: access (or request access, or enter, or cut in, or request cut in, etc.) first transmission mode.

[0229] In one possible implementation, the first network device can send a fifth message; correspondingly, the terminal device receives the fifth message, which may include at least one of the following: identifiers of M network devices, identifiers of multiple cells, information of a first area, information indicating whether the first transmission mode is allowed, or information indicating whether the first access method is allowed. Optionally, the fifth message may be carried by an SIB, or by a MIB, or by higher-layer signaling, without limitation. For example, the first network device may send the fifth message before sending the first message. In one example, the first network device supports the use of the first transmission mode, and the fifth message includes information indicating that the first transmission mode is not allowed, so the terminal device can determine not to use the first transmission mode. For example, the first network device supports the use of the first transmission mode, and the fifth message includes information indicating that the first transmission mode is not allowed, so the terminal device can determine to use the second transmission mode. In yet another example, the first network device supports the use of the first transmission mode, and the fifth message includes information indicating that the first transmission mode is allowed, so the terminal device can determine to use the first transmission mode. In another example, the first network device supports the use of the first access method, and the fifth message includes information indicating that the first access method is not allowed, allowing the terminal device to determine that it will not use the first access method. For example, if the first network device supports the use of the first access method, and the fifth message includes information indicating that the first access method is not allowed, the terminal device can determine that it will use the second access method. In yet another example, the first network device supports the use of the first access method, and the fifth message includes information indicating that the first access method is allowed, allowing the terminal device to determine that it will use the first access method.

[0230] In one possible implementation, the terminal device can send a third message to the first network device; correspondingly, the first network device can receive the third message from the terminal device. This third message can be used to instruct the terminal device to use a first transmission mode, and / or to instruct the terminal device to use a first access method; alternatively, the third message can be used to instruct the terminal device not to use the first transmission mode, and / or to instruct the terminal device not to use the first access method. For example, if the first network device supports using the first transmission mode and / or supports using the first access method, the terminal device can send a third message to the first network device. For example, the terminal device can send a third message to the first network device before receiving the first message. The description of using the first transmission mode is provided above and will not be repeated here. For ease of understanding, unless otherwise specified, the following description will use the example of a third message instructing the terminal device to use the first transmission mode and / or the first access method.

[0231] Optionally, the third message used to indicate that the terminal device does not use the first transmission mode can be replaced by: the third message used to indicate that the terminal device uses the second transmission mode. Alternatively, the third message used to indicate that the terminal device does not use the first access method can be replaced by: the third message used to indicate that the terminal device uses the second access method. For a description of using the second transmission mode, please refer to the aforementioned relevant content, and it will not be repeated here.

[0232] Optionally, the third message can be used to request configuration information for the first transmission mode. The configuration information for the first transmission mode may include at least one of the following: a first identifier, a first set, or a first resource. For example, the terminal device sends a third message to the first network device; the first network device receives the third message and sends a first message to the terminal device based on the third message; correspondingly, the terminal device receives the first message from the first network device.

[0233] Optionally, the third message may be carried by RRC signaling, or the third message may be a random access message (or a random access request message), or the third message may be message 3 (Msg3), without limitation. Optionally, the third message being a random access message can be replaced by: the third message being a physical random access channel (PRACH); or it can also be replaced by: the third message being carried by PRACH.

[0234] In one possible implementation, after initial access is completed, or after an RRC connection is established between the terminal device and the first network device, the terminal device can send a third message to the first network device. This third message is carried by RRC signaling and is used to instruct the terminal device to use a first transmission mode, or to request configuration information for the first transmission mode. Correspondingly, the first network device can receive the third message from the terminal device and send a first message to the terminal device. For example, the first network device can send a first message to the terminal device based on the third message. In this implementation, the terminal device sends the third message to the first network device after initial access is completed, or after the RRC connection is established, without requiring changes to the initial access procedure, making it easy to implement.

[0235] In another possible implementation, during the initial access process, the terminal device may send a third message to the first network device; correspondingly, the first network device receives the third message from the terminal device. This third message may be a random access message or Msg3. The third message is used to instruct the terminal device to use the first transmission mode (or the first access method), or to instruct the terminal device not to use the first transmission mode (or the first access method).

[0236] For example, the first network device can determine whether to send the first message based on the third message; or, the first network device can determine whether to send configuration information for the first transmission mode or configuration information for the second transmission mode based on the third message. Here, determining to send the configuration information for the first transmission mode can be replaced by determining to send the first message. For example, if the third message instructs the terminal device to use the first transmission mode (or the first access method), the first network device can determine to send the configuration information for the first transmission mode, i.e., determine to send the first message. As another example, if the third message instructs the terminal device not to use the first transmission mode (or the first access method), the first network device can determine not to send the configuration information for the first transmission mode, i.e., determine not to send the first message. Yet another example, if the third message instructs the terminal device to use the second transmission mode (or the second access method), the first network device can determine to send the configuration information for the second transmission mode. It is understood that the implementation process of the configuration information for the second transmission mode in this application embodiment is not limited.

[0237] In one implementation, the third message is a random access message, and the first network device can determine whether to send the first message based on the resources occupied by the third message and / or the sequence used to generate the third message. Optionally, the first message can be a random access response message.

[0238] In one example, the third message may be carried by a second resource, and this third message is used to instruct the terminal device to use the first transmission mode and / or instruct the terminal device to use the first access method; alternatively, the third message may be carried by a third resource, and this third message is used to instruct the terminal device not to use the first transmission mode and / or instruct the terminal device not to use the first access method. Accordingly, if the third message is carried by a second resource, the first network device may determine to send the first message; or, if the third message is carried by a third resource, the first network device may determine not to send the first message.

[0239] Optionally, the third message carried by a third resource, used to indicate that the terminal device does not use the first transmission mode, can be replaced by: the third message carried by a third resource, used to indicate that the terminal device uses the second transmission mode. Alternatively, the third message carried by a third resource, used to indicate that the terminal device does not use the first access method, can be replaced by: the third message carried by a third resource, used to indicate that the terminal device uses the second access method. Accordingly, with the third message carried by the third resource, the first network device can determine the configuration information for sending the second transmission mode.

[0240] The second resource differs from the third resource. The second resource may include time-domain resources and / or frequency-domain resources, without limitation. The third resource may include time-domain resources and / or frequency-domain resources, without limitation. Optionally, the second resource may be predefined or configured by a network device (e.g., the first network device), without limitation. For example, the second resource may be carried by an SIB, or by a MIB, or by higher-layer signaling, without limitation. Similarly, the third resource may be predefined or configured by a network device (e.g., the first network device), without limitation. For example, the third resource may be carried by an SIB, or by a MIB, or by higher-layer signaling, without limitation.

[0241] In another example, the third message may be generated based on the second sequence, and this third message is used to instruct the terminal device to use the first transmission mode and / or instruct the terminal device to use the first access method; or, the third message may be generated based on the third sequence, and this third message is used to instruct the terminal device not to use the first transmission mode and / or instruct the terminal device not to use the first access method. Accordingly, if the third message is generated based on the second sequence, the first network device may determine to send the first message; or, if the third message is generated based on the third sequence, the first network device may determine not to send the first message.

[0242] Optionally, the third message, generated based on a third sequence, indicating that the terminal device does not use the first transmission mode, can be replaced by: the third message, generated based on a third sequence, indicating that the terminal device uses the second transmission mode. Alternatively, the third message, generated based on a third sequence, indicating that the terminal device does not use the first access method, can be replaced by: the third message, generated based on a third sequence, indicating that the terminal device uses the second access method.

[0243] The second sequence differs from the third sequence. Optionally, the second sequence can be predefined or configured by a network device (e.g., the first network device), without restriction. For example, the second sequence can be carried by an SIB, a MIB, or higher-layer signaling, without restriction. Similarly, the third sequence can be predefined or configured by a network device (e.g., the first network device), without restriction. For example, the third sequence can be carried by an SIB, a MIB, or higher-layer signaling, without restriction.

[0244] In another implementation, the third message is Msg3. The first network device can determine whether to send the first message based on the resources occupied by the third message and / or the scrambling information of the third message. The implementation process of the first network device determining whether to send the first message based on the resources occupied by the third message is described above and will not be repeated here.

[0245] In one example, the third message may be scrambled based on third information, which is used to instruct the terminal device to use the first transmission mode and / or to instruct the terminal device to use the first access method. For example, the third message is Msg3, and the cyclic redundancy check (CRC) of Msg3 is scrambled by the third information, or the information portion of Msg3 is scrambled by the third information. This Msg3 can be used to instruct the terminal device to use the first transmission mode and / or to instruct the terminal device to use the first access method. Alternatively, the third message may be scrambled based on fourth information, which is used to instruct the terminal device not to use the first transmission mode and / or to instruct the terminal device not to use the first access method. For example, the third message is Msg3, and the CRC of Msg3 is scrambled by the fourth information, or the information portion of Msg3 is scrambled by the fourth information. This Msg3 can be used to instruct the terminal device not to use the first transmission mode and / or to instruct the terminal device not to use the first access method. Accordingly, if the third message is scrambled based on the third information, the first network device can determine to send the first message; or, if the third message is scrambled based on the fourth information, the first network device can determine not to send the first message.

[0246] Optionally, the third message, scrambled based on third information, used to indicate that the terminal device does not use the first transmission mode, can be replaced by: the third message, scrambled based on third information, used to indicate that the terminal device uses the second transmission mode. Alternatively, the third message, scrambled based on fourth information, used to indicate that the terminal device does not use the first access method, can be replaced by: the third message, scrambled based on fourth information, used to indicate that the terminal device uses the second access method.

[0247] The third and fourth information are different. For example, the third and fourth information can be different RNTIs, without restriction. Optionally, the third information can be predefined or configured by the network device (e.g., the first network device), without restriction. For example, the third information can be carried by the SIB, the MIB, or higher-layer signaling, without restriction. Similarly, the fourth information can be predefined or configured by the network device (e.g., the first network device), without restriction. For example, the fourth information can be carried by the SIB, the MIB, or higher-layer signaling, without restriction.

[0248] In the above implementation, the terminal device sends a third message to the first network device during the initial access process, reusing the random access message or Msg3 in the initial access process, so that the first network device configures the terminal device with a first transmission mode, which can reduce signaling interaction and thus reduce the consumption of transmission resources.

[0249] In one possible implementation, the first network device can send a fourth message to the terminal device; correspondingly, the terminal device can receive the fourth message from the first network device. For example, the first network device can send the fourth message to the terminal device before receiving the third message. The fourth message may include information related to the first access method. For example, the fourth message may include at least one of the following: a second resource, a second sequence, or third information. Optionally, the fourth message may also include information related to the second access method. For example, the fourth message may also include at least one of the following: a third resource, a third sequence, or fourth information. Optionally, the fourth message may be carried by an SIB, or by a MIB, or by higher-layer signaling, without limitation.

[0250] In one possible implementation, the terminal device can communicate with at least one of the M network devices (not shown in Figure 6) based on a first message. Optionally, the at least one network device includes the first network device, meaning the terminal device can communicate with the first network device based on the first message. Figure 6 illustrates an example of the terminal device communicating with a second network device among the M network devices. The second network device and the first network device can be the same network device, or they can be two different network devices. Figure 6 illustrates an example where the second network device and the first network device are two different network devices.

[0251] S602: The terminal device determines the first sequence.

[0252] Step S602 is optional and is represented by a dashed line in Figure 6. For example, the terminal device can determine the first sequence based on the first set. For example, the terminal device can determine the first sequence based on the first identifier, without limitation. The implementation process of the terminal device determining the first sequence based on the first identifier can refer to the description of the terminal device determining at least one random access sequence based on the first identifier, and will not be repeated here.

[0253] The first sequence belongs to the sequence indicated by the first set. This first sequence can be any of the following: a random access sequence, a SYNC sequence, a paging sequence, an RS sequence, a sequence used to generate WUS, a sequence used to generate HARQ signals, or a sequence used to generate data. Optionally, the first sequence can be generated based on the W sequence, which will be described in the preceding terminology description and will not be repeated here.

[0254] Figure 6 illustrates an example of a terminal device determining a first sequence based on a first set. This application does not limit the implementation method of the terminal device determining the first sequence.

[0255] S603: The second network device determines the first sequence.

[0256] Step S603 is optional and is represented by a dashed line in Figure 6. For example, the second network device can determine the first sequence based on the first set. Alternatively, the second network device can determine the first sequence based on the first identifier, without limitation. The implementation process of the second network device determining the first sequence based on the first identifier can refer to the description of the terminal device determining at least one random access sequence based on the first identifier, and will not be repeated here. Here, the cell corresponding to the second network device belongs to multiple cells, or the second network device belongs to M network devices, or the multiple cells include the cell corresponding to the second network device.

[0257] In one possible implementation, the second network device and the first network device are two different network devices. The second network device can obtain the configuration information of the terminal device in the first transmission mode by interacting with the first network device, namely at least one of the first identifier, the first set, or the first resource. It is understood that the embodiments of this application do not limit the implementation method of the second network device obtaining the configuration information of the terminal device in the first transmission mode. For example, the second network device can also obtain the configuration information of the terminal device in the first transmission mode from a management device. The management device can be used to maintain (or manage) the configuration information of at least one terminal device in the first transmission mode. For example, the first network device can send the configuration information of the terminal device in the first transmission mode to the management device; correspondingly, the management device can receive the configuration information of the terminal device in the first transmission mode from the first network device and store it. The embodiments of this application do not limit the specific implementation form of the management device.

[0258] Figure 6 illustrates an example of a second network device determining a first sequence based on a first set. This application does not limit the implementation method of the second network device determining the first sequence.

[0259] S604: The second network device transmits the first signal to the terminal device.

[0260] The first signal is generated based on a first sequence. This first sequence is carried by a first resource. For example, the first signal is transmitted between a second network device and a terminal device via the first resource. Optionally, the generation of the first signal based on the first sequence can be understood as: the first signal is obtained by mapping the first sequence onto the first resource; or it can also be understood as: the first signal is obtained by encoding the first sequence and then mapping it onto the first resource. For example, if the first sequence is a paging sequence, the first signal can be obtained by directly mapping the first sequence onto the first resource.

[0261] The transmission of the first signal between the second network device and the terminal device can be as follows: the terminal device sends the first signal to the second network device; the second network device receives the first signal from the terminal device; or it can be as follows: the second network device sends the first signal to the terminal device; the terminal device receives the first signal from the second network device. For example, the first sequence is any of the following: a SYNC sequence, a paging sequence, an RS sequence, a sequence for generating WUS, a sequence for generating HARQ signals, or a sequence for generating data; the second network device sends the first signal to the terminal device; and correspondingly, the terminal device receives the first signal from the second network device. As another example, the first sequence is any of the following: a random access sequence, an RS sequence, a sequence for generating HARQ signals, or a sequence for generating data; the terminal device sends the first signal to the second network device; and correspondingly, the second network device receives the first signal from the terminal device.

[0262] Optionally, the first sequence does not include the synchronization sequence indicated by the first set. The terminal device and the second network device can transmit the first signal in a synchronous mode or an asynchronous mode. For example, before transmitting the first signal, the terminal device and the second network device can synchronize using the synchronization sequence indicated by the first set. The implementation process can be found in S602 to S604 and will not be repeated here. Alternatively, before transmitting the first signal, the terminal device and the second network device can also synchronize using a synchronization signal block (SSB).

[0263] In one possible implementation, the sequence indicated by the first set includes at least one random access sequence, and the first sequence is the first random access sequence in the at least one random access sequence. The second network device can perform at least one of the following based on the first random access sequence: determine the identity information of the terminal device, determine the cell where the terminal device is located, obtain a scheduling request, or obtain a cache status report.

[0264] For example, the first sequence is a first random access sequence, which can be used for initial access or for non-initial access. For instance, if the first sequence is used for initial access and the second network device is the same network device as the first network device, S604 can be understood as the initial access process. Alternatively, if the first sequence is used for non-initial access, S604 can be understood as a non-initial access process, such as the access process after a terminal device moves from the coverage area of ​​the first network device to the coverage area of ​​the second network device.

[0265] Optionally, some sequences in the sequence indicated by the first set can be configured by the fourth message, and the remaining sequences can be configured by the first message. For example, the first sequence is used for initial access, the first signal carries the third message, the first sequence can be the second sequence, the second sequence is configured by the fourth message, and the sequences in the sequence indicated by the first set other than the second sequence are configured by the first message. Optionally, some resources in the first resource can be configured by the fourth message, and the remaining resources can be configured by the first message. For example, the first sequence is used for initial access, the first signal carries the third message, the second resource occupied by the third message is configured by the fourth message, and the resources in the first resource other than the second resource can be configured by the first message. For descriptions of the first, third, and fourth messages, please refer to the relevant content in S601, which will not be repeated here.

[0266] It is understood that the execution order of the steps shown in Figure 6 is an example and is not limited thereto. For example, the terminal device may determine the first sequence first, and then the second network device may determine the first sequence; or, the second network device may determine the first sequence first, and then the terminal device may determine the first sequence, that is, S603 may be executed first, and then S602 may be executed; or, the terminal device and the second network device may determine the first sequence simultaneously, without restriction.

[0267] In the method embodiment shown in Figure 6, the first resource can carry multiple types of sequences within multiple cells, and the terminal device is identified by a first identifier within multiple cells. This simplifies the resource configuration process, improves communication performance, and enhances user experience. Furthermore, when the terminal device moves within multiple cells, it can communicate with the network device through the first resource, the first identifier, and at least one sequence, eliminating the need for frequent synchronization, measurement, and configuration operations. This simplifies mobility management and updates, reduces power consumption for both the terminal device and the network device, and further improves communication performance and user experience.

[0268] As mentioned above, the third message can be carried by RRC signaling, a random access message, or Msg3. The following section, with reference to Figure 7, introduces various implementation methods of the third message.

[0269] Figure 7 is a flowchart illustrating a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 7, the method may include the following:

[0270] S701: The first network device sends an SIB.

[0271] Accordingly, the terminal device receives the SIB.

[0272] The SIB may include information indicating whether the first network device supports the first transmission mode, and / or information indicating whether the first network device supports the first access method. The implementation process is described in the second message description and will not be repeated here. Figure 7 illustrates an example where the SIB includes information indicating that the first network device supports the first transmission mode.

[0273] Optionally, the SIB may further include at least one of the following: identifiers of M network devices, identifiers of multiple cells, information of the first area, information indicating whether the first transmission mode is allowed, or information indicating whether the first access method is allowed. The implementation process is described in the fifth message and will not be repeated here. This application embodiment illustrates allowing the use of the first transmission mode and allowing the use of the first access method as examples.

[0274] Optionally, the SIB may also include information related to the first access method, or the SIB may also include information related to the first access method and information related to the second access method, the implementation of which is described in the fourth message. For example, the information related to the first access method may include at least one of the following: a second sequence, a second resource, or third information. For example, the information related to the second access method may include at least one of the following: a third sequence, a third resource, or fourth information.

[0275] For example, the SIB in S701 can be replaced by the MIB; or, the above information can be carried by both the SIB and the MIB. For instance, some of the information above can be carried by the MIB, and the remaining information can be carried by the SIB, without limitation. Figure 7 illustrates this using the SIB as an example.

[0276] Next, any one of S702 to S704, S705 to S707, or S708 to S712 can be executed. For example, if the third message is carried by RRC signaling, then S702 to S704 are executed, denoted as Mode 1; or, if the third message is Random Access Message 1, then S705 to S707 are executed, denoted as Mode 2; or, if the third message is Msg3, then S708 to S712 are executed, denoted as Mode 3. In other words, S702 to S704, S705 to S707, and S708 to S712 are three parallel modes, represented by dashed boxes in Figure 7.

[0277] S702: An RRC connection is established between the terminal device and the first network device.

[0278] S702 can also be described as: the terminal device completes the initial access. It is understood that the embodiments of this application do not limit the implementation method of the initial access process of the terminal device and the establishment process of the RRC connection.

[0279] S703: The terminal device sends an RRC signaling message to the first network device.

[0280] Accordingly, the first network device receives RRC signaling from the terminal device.

[0281] RRC signaling can be used to instruct the terminal device to use the first transmission mode, and / or RRC signaling can be used to request configuration information for the first transmission mode. Figure 7 illustrates an example of RRC signaling instructing the terminal device to use the first transmission mode.

[0282] S704: The first network device sends the first message to the terminal device.

[0283] Accordingly, the terminal device receives the first message from the first network device.

[0284] The first message includes at least one of the following: a first identifier, a first set, or a first resource. The implementation of these components is described in S601 and will not be repeated here. For example, after receiving RRC signaling, the first network device can send the first message to the terminal device based on the RRC signaling.

[0285] S705: The terminal device sends a random access message 1 to the first network device. Correspondingly, the first network device receives the random access message 1 from the terminal device.

[0286] The random access message 1 can be used to indicate whether the terminal device uses the first transmission mode, and / or the random access message 1 can be used to indicate whether the terminal device uses the first access method. For the implementation process, please refer to the description of the third message as a random access message, which will not be repeated here. Figure 7 illustrates an example of the random access message 1 indicating that the terminal device uses the first transmission mode.

[0287] S706: The first network device determines to send the first message based on random access message 1.

[0288] S706 is an optional step, indicated by a dashed line in Figure 7. For example, the first network device can determine whether to send the first message based on the resources occupied by random access message 1 and / or the sequence for generating random access message 1. The implementation process is described above and will not be repeated here. Figure 7 illustrates an example of the first network device determining to send the first message based on random access message 1.

[0289] S707: The first network device sends the first message to the terminal device.

[0290] Accordingly, the terminal device receives the first message from the first network device.

[0291] Optionally, the first message in S707 can be random access response message 1, without restriction. Please refer to the foregoing description for the first message, which will not be repeated here.

[0292] S708: The terminal device sends a random access message 2 to the first network device.

[0293] Accordingly, the first network device receives random access message 2 from the terminal device.

[0294] S709: The first network device sends a random access response message 2 to the first network device. Correspondingly, the terminal device receives the random access response message 2 from the first network device.

[0295] S710: The terminal device sends Msg3 to the first network device.

[0296] Accordingly, the first network device receives Msg3 from the terminal device.

[0297] Msg3 can be used to indicate whether the terminal device uses the first transmission mode, and / or Msg3 can be used to indicate whether the terminal device uses the first access method. The implementation process is detailed in the description of the third message being Msg3, and will not be repeated here. Figure 7 illustrates an example of Msg3 indicating that the terminal device uses the first transmission mode.

[0298] S711: The first network device determines to send the first message based on Msg3.

[0299] Step S711 is optional and is indicated by a dashed line in Figure 7. For example, the first network device can determine whether to send the first message based on the resources occupied by Msg3 and / or the scrambling information of Msg3. The implementation process is described above and will not be repeated here. Figure 7 illustrates an example of the first network device determining to send the first message based on Msg3.

[0300] S712: The first network device sends the first message to the terminal device.

[0301] Accordingly, the terminal device receives the first message from the first network device.

[0302] Please refer to the aforementioned description for the first message; it will not be repeated here.

[0303] It is understood that Figure 7 illustrates the use of Method 1, Method 2, and Method 3 independently as examples, and the embodiments of this application are not limited thereto. Exemplarily, Method 1, Method 2, and Method 3 can also be used in combination. For example, some configuration information of the first transmission mode is configured to the terminal device through Method 2, while the remaining configuration information is configured to the terminal device through Method 1.

[0304] In the method embodiment shown in Figure 7, the terminal device can obtain the configuration information of the first transmission mode after the initial access is completed or the RRC connection is established, without changing the initial access process, which is easy to implement. Alternatively, the terminal device can also obtain the configuration information of the first transmission mode by multiplexing random access messages or Msg3 during the initial access process, which can reduce signaling interaction and improve communication performance.

[0305] In one embodiment, the method shown in FIG7 may further include S713, or may further include S713 and S714, as shown in FIG8. FIG8 illustrates an example where the first network device and the second network device are two different network devices, and the first sequence is a random access sequence indicated by a first set.

[0306] Figure 8 is a schematic flowchart of a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application. In Figure 8, S701 to S712 are described in conjunction with S701 to S712 in Figure 7, and will not be repeated here. The difference lies in:

[0307] S713: The second network device sends a synchronization signal to the terminal device.

[0308] Accordingly, the terminal device receives a synchronization signal from the second network device.

[0309] Step S713 is optional and is represented by a dashed line in Figure 8. For example, the second network device and the terminal device can also communicate in asynchronous mode without the need for synchronization signals. These synchronization signals can be used to differentiate between the terminal device and the second network device.

[0310] Optionally, the synchronization signal may be a synchronization signal block, or the synchronization signal may be generated based on the synchronization sequence indicated by the first set, without limitation.

[0311] S714: The terminal device sends a first signal to the first network device.

[0312] Accordingly, the second network device receives the first signal from the terminal device.

[0313] The first signal is carried by the first resource. This first signal is generated based on a first sequence. In this embodiment, the first sequence is a random access sequence indicated by a first set. For example, the terminal device can determine the first sequence based on the first set or the first identifier; the implementation process is described in S602 and will not be repeated here. For example, the second network device can determine the first sequence based on the first set or the first identifier; the implementation process is described in S603 and will not be repeated here.

[0314] For example, a terminal device moves from a first network device to a second network device, which belongs to M network devices, and the terminal device can initiate random access. For instance, the terminal device sends a first signal to the second network device according to a random access sequence (i.e., a first sequence) indicated by a first set.

[0315] Optionally, the second network device may perform at least one of the following actions based on the first signal: determine the identity information of the terminal device, determine the cell where the terminal device is located, obtain a scheduling request, or obtain a cache status report.

[0316] In the method embodiment shown in Figure 8, when the terminal device moves in multiple cells or a first area, it can initiate random access through the random access sequence indicated by the first resource and the first set. There is no need to configure the random access sequence and the resources used to carry the random access sequence, which can reduce the power consumption of the terminal device and network device and improve communication performance.

[0317] The embodiments provided in this application describe the methods provided by the embodiments of this application from the perspective of interaction between multiple communication devices (e.g., terminal devices and first network devices). The steps performed by the communication devices (e.g., terminal devices or first network devices) can be implemented by different functional entities that make up the communication devices. The communication devices (e.g., terminal devices or first network devices) may include hardware structures and / or software modules, implementing the above functions in the form of hardware structures, software modules, or a combination of hardware structures and software modules. Whether a particular function is implemented in the form of hardware structures, software modules, or a combination of hardware structures and software modules depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution.

[0318] The communication device used to implement the above method in the embodiments of this application is described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Therefore, the content above can be used in subsequent embodiments, and repeated content will not be described again.

[0319] Figure 9 illustrates a schematic diagram of a communication device 900. This communication device 900 can implement the functions or steps performed by the terminal device or the first network device in the various method embodiments described above.

[0320] For example, when the communication device 900 is used to implement the functions or steps implemented by the terminal device in the above method embodiments, the communication device 900 may be the terminal device or a component in the terminal device.

[0321] For example, when the communication device 900 is used to implement the functions or steps implemented by the first network device in the above method embodiments, the communication device 900 may be the first network device or a component in the first network device (such as DU and / or RU).

[0322] In one embodiment, the communication device 900 may include a processing module 901 and a transceiver module 902; or it may include a processing module 901 but not a transceiver module 902; or it may include a transceiver module 902 but not a processing module 901. Wherein:

[0323] The processing module 901 can be used to support the communication device 900 in performing the processing actions in the above method embodiments. The processing module 901 can be implemented using one or more processors. For example, the processor can be a central processing unit (CPU), or other general-purpose processors, digital signal processors (DSPs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), microprocessors (MCUs), or other programmable logic devices, transistor logic devices, hardware components, or any combination thereof. A general-purpose processor can be a microprocessor or any conventional processor.

[0324] In this application, the processing module 901 may also be referred to as a processing unit, etc., without limitation.

[0325] Transceiver module 902 is used for inputting and / or outputting information. Input information can be replaced by received information, and output information can be replaced by transmitted information. When outputting information, transceiver module 902 can output information to other devices outside of communication device 900, or to other units within communication device 900. In some embodiments, transceiver module 902 can be implemented through at least one of a physical interface, a communication module, a communication interface, and an input / output interface. In other embodiments, transceiver module 902 can be implemented through interface circuitry, such as a mobile communication module. The mobile communication module may include one or more of at least one antenna, at least one filter, a switch, a power amplifier, and a low-noise amplifier (LNA).

[0326] Optionally, the transceiver module 902 may include a sending module and a receiving module. The sending module is used to perform the sending operation in the above method embodiments. The receiving module is used to perform the receiving operation in the above method embodiments. It should be noted that the communication device 900 may include a sending module but not a receiving module. Alternatively, the communication device 900 may include a receiving module but not a sending module. Specifically, it depends on whether the above scheme performed by the communication device 900 includes sending and receiving actions.

[0327] In this application, the transceiver module 902 may also be referred to as a communication interface, or a communication module, or a transceiver unit, or an interface module, or an interface unit, or a communication unit, etc., without limitation.

[0328] It should be noted that the communication device 900 may include a processing module 901, but not a transceiver module 902. Alternatively, the communication device 900 may include a transceiver module 902, but not a processing module 901. Specifically, it depends on whether the above-described scheme executed by the communication device 900 includes processing and transceiver actions.

[0329] Optionally, the communication device 900 may further include a storage module, not shown in FIG9. The storage module may be used to store instructions and / or data, and the processing module 901 may read the instructions and / or data in the storage module to enable the communication device 900 to implement the aforementioned method embodiment.

[0330] Optionally, the communication device 900 may be a chip system, the transceiver module 902 may be the input / output interface of the chip (e.g., a baseband chip), and the processing module 901 may be the processor of the chip system.

[0331] In one possible design, when the communication device 900 is a communication equipment or a communication module within a communication equipment, the functionality of the processing module 901 can be implemented by one or more processors. Exemplarily, the processor may include a modem chip (also known as a baseband chip), or a system-on-a-chip (SoC) chip or system-in-package (SIP) chip containing a modem core. The functionality of the transceiver module 902 can be implemented by transceiver circuitry.

[0332] In one possible design, when the communication device 900 is a circuit or chip responsible for communication functions in a communication device, such as a modem chip or a system-on-a-chip (SoC) or SIP chip containing a modem core, the function of the processing module 901 can be implemented by a circuit system in the aforementioned chip that includes one or more processors or processor cores. The function of the transceiver module 902 can be implemented by the interface circuitry or data transceiver circuitry on the aforementioned chip.

[0333] The communication device can be a terminal device or an access network device.

[0334] In a first implementation, the communication device 900 can perform the functions of a terminal device, executing the following: a processing module 901, configured to determine a first sequence, wherein the first sequence is any one of the following: a synchronization sequence, a paging sequence, a random access sequence, a reference signal sequence, a sequence for generating a wake-up signal, a sequence for generating a hybrid automatic repeat request signal, or a sequence for generating data; a transceiver module 902, configured to send a first signal, or to receive a first signal, wherein the first signal is generated based on the first sequence and is carried by a first resource; wherein the first resource is used to carry at least one sequence in multiple cells, the at least one sequence including the first sequence, and / or, the terminal device is identified by a first identifier in multiple cells.

[0335] Optionally, the at least one sequence may include at least one of the following: a synchronization sequence, a paging sequence, a random access sequence, a reference signal sequence, a sequence for generating a wake-up signal, a sequence for generating a hybrid automatic repeat request signal, or a sequence for generating data.

[0336] In one possible implementation, the transceiver module 902 is further configured to receive a first message from a first network device, the first message including at least one of the following: a first identifier for indicating information of the at least one sequence, or the first resource, wherein the cell corresponding to the first network device belongs to the plurality of cells.

[0337] In the second implementation, the communication device 900 can implement the functions of a terminal device, performing the following: a transceiver module 902 is used to receive a first message from a first network device, the first message including at least one of the following: a first identifier, information indicating at least one sequence, or a first resource, wherein the first identifier identifies the terminal device in multiple cells, the first resource is used to carry the at least one sequence in the multiple cells, the at least one sequence including at least one of the following: a synchronization sequence, a paging sequence, a random access sequence, a reference signal sequence, a sequence for generating a wake-up signal, a sequence for generating a hybrid automatic repeat request signal, or a sequence for generating data, the cell corresponding to the first network device belongs to the multiple cells; and communicates with the network devices corresponding to the multiple cells according to the first message.

[0338] In one possible implementation, when communicating with network devices corresponding to the plurality of cells according to the first message, the transceiver module 902 is used to send a first signal to the first network device or to receive a first signal from the first network device. The first signal is carried by the first resource and is generated based on a first sequence. The first sequence belongs to at least one of the following: a synchronization sequence, a paging sequence, a random access sequence, a reference signal sequence, a sequence for generating a wake-up signal, a sequence for generating a hybrid automatic repeat request signal, or a sequence for generating data.

[0339] Optionally, based on the first or second implementation described above, the first identifier is determined by the identifier of the first cell and the temporary wireless network identifier of the terminal device; or, the first identifier is determined by the identifier of the first region, the identifier of the first cell, and the RNTI of the terminal device; wherein, the first cell belongs to the plurality of cells, and the first region is the area covered by the network devices corresponding to the plurality of cells.

[0340] Optionally, based on the first or second implementation described above, the at least one sequence includes at least one random access sequence; the identifier of the at least one random access sequence is determined by the first identifier; and / or, the identifier of at least one resource is determined by the first identifier, the at least one resource is used to carry the at least one random access sequence within the plurality of cells, and the at least one resource belongs to the first resource.

[0341] Optionally, based on the first or second implementation described above, the identifier of the at least one random access sequence is determined by the first identifier, which can be replaced by: the identifier of the at least one random access sequence is determined by the first identifier and first information, wherein the first information includes the number of the at least one random access sequence and / or a first quantity, wherein the first quantity is the number of random access sequences that support transmission within the plurality of cells.

[0342] Optionally, based on the first or second implementation described above, the identifier of the at least one resource is determined by the first identifier, which can be replaced by: the identifier of the at least one resource is determined by the first identifier and second information, wherein the second information includes the quantity of at least one resource and / or a second quantity, and the second quantity is the quantity of resources used to carry random access sequences transmitted in the plurality of cells.

[0343] Optionally, based on the first or second implementation described above, the at least one sequence includes at least one random access sequence, which is used to initiate random access.

[0344] Optionally, based on the first or second implementation described above, the transceiver module 902 is further configured to receive a second message from the first network device, wherein the second message indicates that the first network device supports the first transmission mode.

[0345] Optionally, based on the first or second implementation described above, the transceiver module 902 is further configured to send a third message to the first network device, wherein the third message instructs the terminal device to use the first transmission mode.

[0346] Optionally, based on the first or second implementation described above, the third message is carried by a second resource, and the third message instructs the terminal device to use the first transmission mode; or, the third message is carried by a third resource, and the third message instructs the terminal device to use a second transmission mode, which is different from the first transmission mode.

[0347] Optionally, based on the first or second implementation described above, the third message is generated based on the second sequence, and the third message instructs the terminal device to use the first transmission mode; or, the third message is generated based on the third sequence, and the third message instructs the terminal device to use the second transmission mode, which is different from the first transmission mode.

[0348] Optionally, based on the first or second implementation method described above, the third message is a random access message.

[0349] Optionally, based on the first or second implementation described above, the third message is scrambled based on third information, and the third message instructs the terminal device to use the first transmission mode; or, the third message is scrambled based on fourth information, and the third message instructs the terminal device to use the second transmission mode, which is different from the first transmission mode.

[0350] Optionally, based on the first or second implementation method described above, the third message is message Msg3.

[0351] Optionally, based on the first or second implementation described above, the transceiver module 902 is further configured to receive a fourth message from the first network device, the fourth message including at least one of the following: a second resource, a second sequence, or third information.

[0352] Optionally, based on the first or second implementation method described above, the third message is carried by RRC signaling.

[0353] Optionally, based on the first or second implementation described above, the transceiver module 902 is further configured to receive a fifth message from the first network device, the fifth message including at least one of the following: the identifier of the network device corresponding to the plurality of cells, the identifier of the plurality of cells, or information indicating that the first transmission mode is allowed.

[0354] Optionally, based on the first or second implementation method described above, the frequency domain resources occupied by the first resource in different time units may be the same, or the frequency domain resources occupied by the first resource in different time units may be different; the first resource may be continuous in the frequency domain, or the first resource may be discontinuous in the frequency domain; the first resource may be continuous in the time domain, or the first resource may be discontinuous in the time domain.

[0355] Optionally, based on the first or second implementation method described above, the first resource is consistent across multiple cells.

[0356] In the third implementation, the communication device 900 can implement the functions of the first network device, performing the following: a processing module 901, configured to determine a first sequence, wherein the first sequence is any one of the following: a synchronization sequence, a paging sequence, a random access sequence, a reference signal sequence, a sequence for generating a wake-up signal, a sequence for generating a hybrid automatic repeat request signal, or a sequence for generating data; a transceiver module 902, configured to send a first signal to a terminal device, or to receive a first signal from a terminal device, wherein the first signal is generated based on the first sequence and is carried by a first resource; wherein the first resource is used to carry at least one sequence in multiple cells, the at least one sequence including the first sequence; and / or, the terminal device is identified by a first identifier in multiple cells, the multiple cells including the cell corresponding to the first network device.

[0357] In one possible implementation, the transceiver module 902 is further configured to send a first message to the terminal device, the first message including at least one of the following: the first identifier, used to indicate information of the at least one sequence, or the first resource.

[0358] In the fourth implementation, the communication device 900 can implement the functions of the first network device, performing the following: a transceiver module 902, used to send a first message to a terminal device, the first message including at least one of the following: a first identifier, used to indicate information of at least one sequence, or a first resource, wherein the first identifier identifies the terminal device in multiple cells, the first resource is used to carry the at least one sequence in the multiple cells, the at least one sequence including at least one of the following: a synchronization sequence, a paging sequence, a random access sequence, a reference signal sequence, a sequence for generating a wake-up signal, a sequence for generating a hybrid automatic repeat request signal, or a sequence for generating data, the cell corresponding to the first network device belongs to the multiple cells; and communicating with the terminal device according to the first message.

[0359] In one possible implementation, when communicating with the terminal device according to the first message, the transceiver module 902 is configured to send a first signal to the terminal device or to receive a first signal from the terminal device, the first signal being carried by the first resource, the first signal being generated based on a first sequence, the first sequence being one of the at least one sequence, the first sequence being any of the following: a synchronization sequence, a paging sequence, a random access sequence, a reference signal sequence, a sequence for generating a wake-up signal, a sequence for generating a hybrid automatic repeat request signal, or a sequence for generating data.

[0360] Optionally, based on the third or fourth implementation method described above, the first identifier is determined by the identifier of the first cell and the temporary wireless network identifier of the terminal device; or, the first identifier is determined by the identifier of the first region, the identifier of the first cell, and the RNTI of the terminal device; wherein, the first cell belongs to the plurality of cells, and the first region is the area covered by the network device corresponding to the plurality of cells.

[0361] Optionally, based on the third or fourth implementation method described above, the at least one sequence includes at least one random access sequence, wherein: the identifier of the at least one random access sequence is determined by the first identifier; and / or, the identifier of at least one resource is determined by the first identifier, the at least one resource is used to carry the at least one random access sequence in the plurality of cells, and the at least one resource belongs to the first resource.

[0362] Optionally, based on the third or fourth implementation method described above, the identifier of the at least one random access sequence is determined by the first identifier, which can be replaced by: the identifier of the at least one random access sequence is determined by the first identifier and first information, wherein the first information includes the number of the at least one random access sequence and / or a first quantity, wherein the first quantity is the number of random access sequences that support transmission in the plurality of cells.

[0363] Optionally, based on the third or fourth implementation method described above, the identifier of the at least one resource is determined by the first identifier, which can be replaced by: the identifier of the at least one resource is determined by the first identifier and second information, wherein the second information includes the quantity of at least one resource and / or a second quantity, and the second quantity is the quantity of resources used to carry random access sequences transmitted in the plurality of cells.

[0364] Optionally, based on the third or fourth implementation method described above, the at least one sequence includes at least one random access sequence, which is used to initiate random access.

[0365] Optionally, based on the third or fourth implementation method described above, the transceiver module 902 is further configured to send a second message to the terminal device, wherein the second message indicates that the first network device supports the first transmission mode.

[0366] Optionally, based on the third or fourth implementation method described above, the transceiver module 902 is further configured to receive a third message from the terminal device, the third message instructing the terminal device to use the first transmission mode.

[0367] Optionally, based on the third or fourth implementation described above, the third message is carried by the second resource, and the third message instructs the terminal device to use the first transmission mode; or, the third message is carried by the third resource, and the third message instructs the terminal device to use the second transmission mode, which is different from the first transmission mode.

[0368] Optionally, based on the third or fourth implementation described above, the third message is generated based on the second sequence, and the third message instructs the terminal device to use the first transmission mode; or, the third message is generated based on the third sequence, and the third message instructs the terminal device to use the second transmission mode, which is different from the first transmission mode.

[0369] Optionally, based on the third or fourth implementation method described above, the third message is a random access message.

[0370] Optionally, based on the third or fourth implementation described above, the third message is scrambled based on third information, and the third message instructs the terminal device to use the first transmission mode; or, the third message is scrambled based on fourth information, and the third message instructs the terminal device to use a second transmission mode, which is different from the first transmission mode.

[0371] Optionally, based on the third or fourth implementation method described above, the third message is message Msg3.

[0372] Optionally, based on the third or fourth implementation method described above, the transceiver module 902 is further configured to send a fourth message to the terminal device, the fourth message including at least one of the following: a second resource, a second sequence, or third information.

[0373] Optionally, based on the third or fourth implementation method described above, the third message is carried by RRC signaling.

[0374] Optionally, based on the third or fourth implementation method described above, the transceiver module 902 is further configured to send a fifth message to the terminal device, the fifth message including at least one of the following: the identifier of the network device corresponding to the plurality of cells, the identifier of the plurality of cells, or information indicating that the first transmission mode is allowed.

[0375] Optionally, based on the third or fourth implementation method described above, the frequency domain resources occupied by the first resource in different time units may be the same, or the frequency domain resources occupied by the first resource in different time units may be different; the first resource may be continuous in the frequency domain, or the first resource may be discontinuous in the frequency domain; the first resource may be continuous in the time domain, or the first resource may be discontinuous in the time domain.

[0376] Optionally, based on the third or fourth implementation method described above, the first resource is consistent across multiple cells.

[0377] Detailed descriptions of the above-mentioned processing module 901 and transceiver module 902 can be obtained directly from the relevant descriptions in the foregoing embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0378] As shown in Figure 10, this application provides a schematic diagram of the structure of another communication device 1000. The communication device 1000 may include a processor 1020, used to implement or support the communication device 1000 in implementing the functions of the first network device or terminal device in the aforementioned method embodiments. For details, please refer to the detailed descriptions in the aforementioned method embodiments, which will not be repeated here. For example, the processor 1020 is used to read and execute program instructions through the communication interface 1010, so that the communication device 1000 implements the corresponding method. The processor 1020 may include one or more processors, without limitation.

[0379] It should be noted that the aforementioned functional modules can be implemented by hardware or by a combination of hardware and software, without limitation. Furthermore, when the communication device 1000 includes only the processor 1020, the communication device 1000 can be a chip or a chip system.

[0380] For example, the communication device 1000 can be a chip system. The chip system can be composed of chips or may include chips and other discrete components, without limitation.

[0381] For example, when the communication device 1000 is a chip, the communication interface 1010 can be the chip's input / output interface, where input corresponds to receiving operations and output corresponds to sending operations.

[0382] Optionally, the communication device 1000 may further include a memory 1030 for storing program instructions and / or data. The memory 1030 is coupled to the processor 1020. This coupling can be understood as an indirect coupling or communication connection between devices, units, or modules, and can be electrical, mechanical, or other forms, used for information exchange between devices, units, or modules. The processor 1020 may operate in conjunction with the memory 1030; the processor 1020 and the memory 1030 may be integrated together or disposed separately.

[0383] Furthermore, the processor 1020 is used to execute program instructions stored in the memory 1030 so that the communication device 1000 implements the corresponding method.

[0384] One or more of the memories in memory 1030 may be included in the processor, or memory 1030 may exist independently, such as off-chip memory, and be connected to processor 1020 via a communication bus (represented by thick line 1040 in Figure 10). Memory 1030 and processor 1020 may also be integrated together.

[0385] Optionally, the communication device 1000 further includes a communication interface 1010 (shown as a dashed line in FIG10) for communicating with other devices via a transmission medium, thereby enabling the device in the communication device 1000 to communicate with other devices.

[0386] For example, when the communication device 1000 is the first communication device, other devices can be second communication devices, etc. The processor 1020 can use the communication interface 1010 to send and receive data. For example, the processor 1020 can be used to control the communication interface 1010 to receive and / or send signals.

[0387] Specifically, the communication interface 1010 can be a transceiver. In terms of hardware implementation, the transceiver can be used to implement the functions of the transceiver module 902 mentioned above, and the transceiver is integrated into the communication device 1000 to form the communication interface 1010.

[0388] Optionally, the transceiver may include a transmitter and / or a receiver to respectively implement the sending and receiving operations in the method embodiment; other operations besides sending and receiving may be implemented by the processor 1020.

[0389] It should be noted that the communication interface 1010 may have both sending and receiving functions, enabling the transmission and reception of signals; or it may have a sending function but no receiving function, used to transmit signals; or it may have a receiving function but no sending function, used to receive signals.

[0390] It should be noted that the specific connection medium between the communication interface 1010, processor 1020, and memory 1030 is not limited in the embodiments of this application. In Figure 10, the memory 1030, processor 1020, and communication interface 1010 are connected via a communication bus 1040. The connection methods between other components are merely illustrative and not intended to be limiting. The communication bus 1040 can be divided into address bus, data bus, control bus, etc. For ease of illustration, only one thick line is used in Figure 10, but this does not indicate that there is only one communication bus or one type of communication bus.

[0391] In the embodiments of this application, the processor 1020 may be a general-purpose processor, a digital signal processor, an application-specific integrated circuit, a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or other programmable logic devices, discrete gate or transistor logic devices, or discrete hardware components. The general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor or any conventional processor. The methods disclosed in the embodiments of this application may be executed by the hardware in the processor, or by a combination of hardware and software in the processor.

[0392] In this embodiment, the memory 1030 can be a non-volatile memory, such as a hard disk drive (HDD) or a solid-state drive (SSD), or it can be volatile memory, such as random-access memory (RAM). The memory can also be any other medium used to carry or store program code in the form of instructions or data structures that can be accessed by a computer; or it can be a circuit or any other device capable of implementing storage functions for storing program instructions and / or data.

[0393] In a first possible implementation, the communication device 1000 may be a terminal device used to implement the methods corresponding to the terminal device in the above embodiments. For specific functions, please refer to the descriptions in the above embodiments.

[0394] For example, the methods corresponding to the terminal device in the above embodiments include: determining a first sequence, wherein the first sequence is any one of the following: a synchronization sequence, a paging sequence, a random access sequence, a reference signal sequence, a sequence for generating a wake-up signal, a sequence for generating a hybrid automatic repeat request signal, or a sequence for generating data; sending a first signal, or receiving a first signal, wherein the first signal is generated based on the first sequence and the first signal is carried by a first resource; wherein the first resource is used to carry at least one sequence in the plurality of cells, the at least one sequence including the first sequence; and / or, the terminal device is identified by a first identifier in the plurality of cells.

[0395] In a second possible implementation, the communication device 1000 may be a terminal device used to implement the methods corresponding to the terminal device in the above embodiments. For specific functions, please refer to the descriptions in the above embodiments.

[0396] For example, the methods corresponding to the terminal device in the above embodiments include: receiving a first message from a first network device, the first message including at least one of the following: a first identifier for indicating at least one sequence, or a first resource, wherein the first identifier identifies the terminal device in a plurality of cells, the first resource is used to carry the at least one sequence in the plurality of cells, the at least one sequence including at least one of the following: a synchronization sequence, a paging sequence, a random access sequence, a reference signal sequence, a sequence for generating a wake-up signal, a sequence for generating a hybrid automatic repeat request signal, or a sequence for generating data, the cell corresponding to the first network device belongs to the plurality of cells; and communicating with the network devices corresponding to the plurality of cells according to the first message.

[0397] In a third possible implementation, the communication device 1000 may be a first network device, used to implement the methods corresponding to the first network device in the above embodiments. For specific functions, please refer to the descriptions in the above embodiments.

[0398] For example, the methods corresponding to the first network device in the above embodiments include: determining a first sequence, wherein the first sequence is any one of the following: a synchronization sequence, a paging sequence, a random access sequence, a reference signal sequence, a sequence for generating a wake-up signal, a sequence for generating a hybrid automatic repeat request signal, or a sequence for generating data; sending a first signal to a terminal device, or receiving a first signal from a terminal device, wherein the first signal is generated based on the first sequence and the first signal is carried by a first resource; wherein the first resource is used to carry at least one sequence in the plurality of cells, the at least one sequence including the first sequence; and / or, the terminal device is identified by a first identifier in the plurality of cells, the plurality of cells including the cell corresponding to the first network device.

[0399] In a fourth possible implementation, the communication device 1000 may be a first network device, used to implement the methods corresponding to the first network device in the above embodiments. For specific functions, please refer to the descriptions in the above embodiments.

[0400] For example, the methods corresponding to the first network device in the above embodiments include: sending a first message to a terminal device, the first message including at least one of the following: a first identifier for indicating information of at least one sequence, or a first resource, wherein the first identifier identifies the terminal device in a plurality of cells, the first resource is used to carry the at least one sequence in the plurality of cells, the at least one sequence including at least one of the following: a synchronization sequence, a paging sequence, a random access sequence, a reference signal sequence, a sequence for generating a wake-up signal, a sequence for generating a hybrid automatic repeat request signal, or a sequence for generating data, the cell corresponding to the first network device belongs to the plurality of cells; and communicating with the terminal device according to the first message.

[0401] For the specific implementation process, please refer to the relevant content in the aforementioned embodiments; it will not be repeated here.

[0402] Based on the same concept, referring to FIG11, this application embodiment also provides another communication device 1100, including: an input / output interface 1110 and a logic circuit 1120; the input / output interface 1110 is used to receive code instructions and transmit them to the logic circuit 1120; the logic circuit 1120 is used to run the code instructions to execute the method executed by the terminal device or the first network device in any of the above embodiments.

[0403] In a first implementation, the communication device 1100 can be applied to a terminal device to execute the methods performed by the terminal device, specifically, for example, the methods performed by the terminal device in the aforementioned method embodiments. For example, the communication device 1100 can determine a first sequence, which is any one of the following: a synchronization sequence, a paging sequence, a random access sequence, a reference signal sequence, a sequence for generating a wake-up signal, a sequence for generating a hybrid automatic repeat request signal, or a sequence for generating data; send a first signal, or receive a first signal, the first signal being generated based on the first sequence, and the first signal being carried by a first resource; wherein the first resource is used to carry at least one sequence in multiple cells, the at least one sequence including the first sequence; and / or, the terminal device is identified by a first identifier in multiple cells.

[0404] In the second implementation, the communication device 1100 can be applied to a terminal device to execute the methods performed by the terminal device, specifically, for example, the methods performed by the terminal device in the aforementioned method embodiments. For example, the communication device 1100 can receive a first message from a first network device, the first message including at least one of the following: a first identifier for indicating at least one sequence, or a first resource, wherein the first identifier identifies the terminal device within a plurality of cells, and the first resource is used to carry the at least one sequence within the plurality of cells, the at least one sequence including at least one of the following: a synchronization sequence, a paging sequence, a random access sequence, a reference signal sequence, a sequence for generating a wake-up signal, a sequence for generating a hybrid automatic repeat request signal, or a sequence for generating data, wherein the cell corresponding to the first network device belongs to the plurality of cells; and communicates with the network devices corresponding to the plurality of cells according to the first message.

[0405] In the third implementation, the communication device 1100 can be applied to a first network device to execute the method performed by the first network device, specifically, for example, the method performed by the first network device in the aforementioned method embodiments. For example, the communication device 1100 can determine a first sequence, which is any one of the following: a synchronization sequence, a paging sequence, a random access sequence, a reference signal sequence, a sequence for generating a wake-up signal, a sequence for generating a hybrid automatic repeat request signal, or a sequence for generating data; send a first signal to a terminal device, or receive a first signal from a terminal device, the first signal being generated based on the first sequence, and the first signal being carried by a first resource; wherein the first resource is used to carry at least one sequence in multiple cells, the at least one sequence including the first sequence; and / or, the terminal device is identified by a first identifier in multiple cells, the multiple cells including the cell corresponding to the first network device.

[0406] In the fourth implementation, the communication device 1100 can be applied to a first network device to execute the method performed by the first network device, specifically, for example, the method performed by the first network device in the aforementioned method embodiments. For example, the communication device 1100 can send a first message to a terminal device, the first message including at least one of the following: a first identifier for indicating at least one sequence, or a first resource, wherein the first identifier identifies the terminal device within a plurality of cells, and the first resource is used to carry the at least one sequence within the plurality of cells, the at least one sequence including at least one of the following: a synchronization sequence, a paging sequence, a random access sequence, a reference signal sequence, a sequence for generating a wake-up signal, a sequence for generating a hybrid automatic repeat request signal, or a sequence for generating data, wherein the cell corresponding to the first network device belongs to the plurality of cells; and communicate with the terminal device according to the first message.

[0407] For the specific implementation process, please refer to the aforementioned method implementation examples, which will not be repeated here.

[0408] This application also provides a communication system, which may include one or more of the following: a first network device or a terminal device. Optionally, the communication system may further include a second network device. The first network device or the terminal device can be referred to the descriptions in the foregoing method embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0409] This application also provides a computer-readable storage medium for storing computer programs or instructions. When the computer programs or instructions are run, the methods or steps executed by the first network device or terminal device in the foregoing embodiments are implemented.

[0410] This application also provides a computer program product, including a computer program that, when run on a computer, enables the methods or steps executed by the first network device or terminal device in the foregoing embodiments to be implemented.

[0411] This application provides a chip system including a processor for implementing the functions of the first network device or terminal device in the aforementioned method (e.g., executing corresponding methods or steps). The chip system may be composed of a chip or may include a chip and other discrete components.

[0412] Optionally, the chip system also includes a memory for storing program instructions that the processor can read and execute to implement the corresponding method.

[0413] It should be understood that in the various embodiments of this application, the order of the above-mentioned processes does not imply the order of execution. The execution order of each process should be determined by its function and internal logic, and should not constitute any limitation on the implementation process of the embodiments of this application.

[0414] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the units and algorithm steps of the various examples described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented in electronic hardware, or a combination of computer software and electronic hardware. Whether these functions are implemented in hardware or software depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of this application.

[0415] Those skilled in the art will understand that, for the sake of convenience and brevity, the specific working processes of the systems, devices, and units described above can be referred to the corresponding processes in the foregoing method embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0416] In the several embodiments provided in this application, it should be understood that the disclosed systems, apparatuses, and methods can be implemented in other ways. For example, the apparatus embodiments described above are merely illustrative; for instance, the division of units is only a logical functional division, and in actual implementation, there may be other division methods. For example, multiple units or components may be combined or integrated into another system, or some features may be ignored or not executed. Furthermore, the coupling or direct coupling or communication connection shown or discussed may be through some interfaces; the indirect coupling or communication connection between apparatuses or units may be electrical, mechanical, or other forms.

[0417] The units described as separate components may or may not be physically separate. The components shown as units may or may not be physical units; that is, they may be located in one place or distributed across multiple network units. Some or all of the units can be selected to achieve the purpose of this embodiment according to actual needs.

[0418] In addition, the functional units in the various embodiments of this application can be integrated into one processing unit, or each unit can exist physically separately, or two or more units can be integrated into one unit.

[0419] If the aforementioned functions are implemented as software functional units and sold or used as independent products, they can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium. Based on this understanding, the essential contributing part of the technical solution of this application, or a portion 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 aforementioned storage medium includes various media capable of storing program code, such as USB flash drives, portable hard drives, read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic disks, or optical disks.

[0420] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this application, but the protection scope of the embodiments of this application is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the technical scope disclosed in the embodiments of this application should be included within the protection scope of the embodiments of this application. Therefore, the protection scope of the embodiments of this application should be determined by the protection scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A communication method characterized by comprising: The method is applied to a terminal device or an apparatus in the terminal device, and the method comprises: determining a first sequence, the first sequence being any one of a synchronization sequence, a paging sequence, a random access sequence, a reference signal sequence, a sequence for generating a wake-up signal, a sequence for generating a hybrid automatic repeat request signal, or a sequence for generating data; sending or receiving a first signal, the first signal being generated based on the first sequence, the first signal being carried by a first resource; wherein the first resource is used to carry at least one sequence in a plurality of cells, the at least one sequence comprising the first sequence; and / or the terminal device is identified by a first identifier in the plurality of cells.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein: the first identifier is determined by an identifier of a first cell and a radio network temporary identifier (RNTI) of the terminal device; or the first identifier is determined by an identifier of a first region, an identifier of a first cell, and a RNTI of the terminal device; wherein the first cell belongs to the plurality of cells, and the first region is a region covered by a network device corresponding to the plurality of cells.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, the at least one sequence comprises at least one random access sequence; an identifier of the at least one random access sequence is determined by the first identifier; and / or an identifier of at least one resource is determined by the first identifier, the at least one resource being used to carry the at least one random access sequence in the plurality of cells, and the at least one resource belonging to the first resource.

4. The method of claim 3, wherein, the identifier of the at least one random access sequence is determined by the first identifier, comprising: the identifier of the at least one random access sequence is determined by the first identifier and first information, the first information comprising a number of the at least one random access sequence and / or a first number, the first number being a number of random access sequences supported for transmission in the plurality of cells.

5. The method according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that, the identifier of the at least one resource is determined by the first identifier, comprising: the identifier of the at least one resource is determined by the first identifier and second information, the second information comprising a number of the at least one resource and / or a second number, the second number being a number of resources used to carry random access sequences transmitted in the plurality of cells.

6. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, the at least one sequence comprises at least one random access sequence, the at least one random access sequence being used to initiate random access.

7. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The method further comprises: receiving a first message from a first network device, the first message comprising at least one of the first identifier, information used to indicate the at least one sequence, or the first resource, wherein a cell corresponding to the first network device belongs to the plurality of cells.

8. The method of claim 7, wherein, The method comprises: receiving a second message from the first network device, the second message indicating that the first network device supports a first transmission mode.

9. The method according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that, The method further comprises: sending a third message to the first network device, the third message indicating that the terminal device uses the first transmission mode.

10. The method of claim 9, wherein: The third message is carried by a second resource, and the third message indicates that the terminal device uses the first transmission mode; or The third message is carried by a third resource, and the third message indicates that the terminal device uses a second transmission mode different from the first transmission mode.

11. The method of claim 9 or 10, wherein The third message is generated based on a second sequence, and the third message indicates that the terminal device uses the first transmission mode; or The third message is generated based on a third sequence, and the third message indicates that the terminal device uses a second transmission mode different from the first transmission mode.

12. The method according to any one of claims 9 to 11, characterized in that, The third message is a random access message.

13. The method of claim 9 or 10, wherein The third message is scrambled based on third information, and the third message indicates that the terminal device uses the first transmission mode; or The third message is scrambled based on fourth information, and the third message indicates that the terminal device uses a second transmission mode different from the first transmission mode.

14. The method according to any one of claims 9, 10 and 13, characterized in that, The third message is a message Msg3.

15. The method according to any one of claims 10 to 14, characterized in that, The method further comprises: receiving a fourth message from the first network device, the fourth message comprising at least one of the following: a second resource, a second sequence, or third information.

16. The method of claim 9, wherein, The third message is carried by radio resource control (RRC) signaling.

17. The method according to any one of claims 7 to 16, characterized in that, The method further comprises: receiving a fifth message from the first network device, the fifth message comprising at least one of the following: an identity of a network device corresponding to the plurality of cells, an identity of the plurality of cells, or information indicating that the first transmission mode is allowed to be used.

18. A method of communication, comprising: The method is applied to a first network device or an apparatus in the first network device, and the method comprises: determining a first sequence, the first sequence being any one of the following: a synchronization sequence, a paging sequence, a random access sequence, a reference signal sequence, a sequence used for generating a wake-up signal, a sequence used for generating a hybrid automatic repeat request (HARQ) signal, or a sequence used for generating data; sending or receiving, to or from a terminal device, a first signal, the first signal being generated based on the first sequence, the first signal being carried by a first resource; wherein the first resource is used to carry at least one sequence in a plurality of cells, the at least one sequence comprising the first sequence; and / or the terminal device is identified by a first identity in the plurality of cells, the plurality of cells comprising a cell corresponding to the first network device.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein The first identity is determined by an identity of a first cell and an RNTI of the terminal device; or The first identity is determined by an identity of a first region, an identity of a first cell, and an RNTI of the terminal device; wherein the first cell belongs to the plurality of cells, and the first region is a region covered by a network device corresponding to the plurality of cells.

20. The method of claim 18 or 19, wherein, The at least one sequence comprises at least one random access sequence; An identity of the at least one random access sequence is determined by the first identity; and / or The identity of the at least one resource is determined by the first identity, the at least one resource being used to carry the at least one random access sequence in the plurality of cells, the at least one resource belonging to the first resource.

21. The method of claim 20, wherein, The identity of the at least one random access sequence is determined by the first identity, comprising: The identity of the at least one random access sequence is determined by the first identity and first information, the first information comprising a number of the at least one random access sequence and / or a first number, the first number being a number of random access sequences supported to be transmitted in the plurality of cells.

22. The method of claim 20 or 21, wherein, The identity of the at least one resource is determined by the first identity, comprising: The identity of the at least one resource is determined by the first identity and second information, the second information comprising a number of the at least one resource and / or a second number, the second number being a number of resources used to carry random access sequences transmitted in the plurality of cells.

23. The method of any one of claims 18-22, wherein, The at least one sequence comprises at least one random access sequence, the at least one random access sequence being used to initiate random access.

24. The method of any one of claims 18-23, wherein, The method further comprises: sending, to the terminal device, a first message, the first message comprising at least one of the following: the first identity, information used to indicate the at least one sequence, or the first resource.

25. The method of claim 24, wherein, The method comprises: sending, to the terminal device, a second message, the second message indicating that the first network device supports a first transmission mode.

26. The method of claim 24 or 25, wherein, The method further comprises: receiving, from the terminal device, a third message, the third message indicating that the terminal device uses the first transmission mode.

27. The method of claim 26, wherein: the third message is carried by a second resource, the third message indicating that the terminal device uses the first transmission mode; or the third message is carried by a third resource, the third message indicating that the terminal device uses a second transmission mode, the second transmission mode being different from the first transmission mode.

28. The method of claim 26 or 27, wherein: the third message is generated based on a second sequence, the third message indicating that the terminal device uses the first transmission mode; or the third message is generated based on a third sequence, the third message indicating that the terminal device uses a second transmission mode, the second transmission mode being different from the first transmission mode.

29. The method of any one of claims 26-28, wherein, The third message is a random access message.

30. The method of claim 26 or 27, wherein: the third message is scrambled based on a third information, the third message indicating that the terminal device uses the first transmission mode; or the third message is scrambled based on a fourth information, the third message indicating that the terminal device uses a second transmission mode, the second transmission mode being different from the first transmission mode.

31. The method of any one of claims 26, 27, and 30, wherein, The third message is a message Msg3.

32. The method of any one of claims 27-31, wherein, The method further comprises: sending, to the terminal device, a fourth message, the fourth message comprising at least one of the following: a second resource, a second sequence, or a third information.

33. The method of claim 26, wherein, The third message is carried by RRC signaling.

34. The method of any one of claims 24-33, wherein, The method further comprises: A fifth message is sent to the terminal device, the fifth message comprising at least one of: an identity of a network device corresponding to the plurality of cells, an identity of the plurality of cells, or information indicating that the first transmission mode is allowed to be used.

35. A communications device, characterized by comprising means for performing the method of any one of claims 1 to 17, or comprising means for performing the method of any one of claims 18 to 34.

36. A communications device, characterized by comprising at least one processor configured to perform the method of any one of claims 1 to 17, or configured to perform the method of any one of claims 18 to 34.

37. A communication system, characterized by comprising a terminal device and / or a first network device, wherein the terminal device is configured to perform the method of any one of claims 1 to 17, and the first network device is configured to perform the method of any one of claims 18 to 34.

38. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, a computer program or instructions stored thereon, which, when executed by a computer, cause the method of any one of claims 1 to 17 to be implemented, or cause the method of any one of claims 18 to 34 to be implemented.

39. A computer program product, characterised in that, The computer program product comprises a computer program which, when executed on a computer, causes the method of any one of claims 1 to 17 to be implemented, or causes the method of any one of claims 18 to 34 to be implemented.

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