Communication method and related apparatus

Abstract

The present application provides a communication method and a related apparatus. The method comprises: a first communication apparatus determines sensing capability information, wherein the sensing capability information comprises a first sensing capability level, the first sensing capability level is used for indicating the sensing capability of the first communication apparatus, and the first sensing capability level is determined on the basis of the sensing capabilities of a plurality of sensors of the first communication apparatus; or, the sensing capability information comprises one or more second sensing capability levels, the one or more second sensing capability levels are in one-to-one correspondence with one or more sensors of the first communication apparatus, and each second sensing capability level is used for indicating the sensing capability of a sensor corresponding to the second sensing capability level; or, the sensing capability information comprises parameters of one or more sensors, and the parameters of the one or more sensors are used for determining the sensing capability of the first communication apparatus or are used for determining one or more second sensing capability levels; and the first communication apparatus sends the sensing capability information to a second communication apparatus.

Description

Communication methods and related devices

[0001] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202411217027.6, filed with the State Intellectual Property Office of China on August 29, 2024, entitled "Communication Method and Related Apparatus", the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

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

[0003] To conserve spectrum, hardware, and computing resources, the integration of communication and sensing is becoming a trend. Utilizing environmental information acquired during the sensing process to assist communication in achieving higher spectral efficiency, or obtaining a more robust, resilient, and easily recoverable network, has become an important topic in sensing-assisted communication.

[0004] In integrated communication and sensing networks, nodes differ in their sensing capabilities (e.g., sensing accuracy, sensing range), therefore, node selection and management directly affect the accuracy and range of environmental sensing. Thus, how to characterize a node's sensing capabilities to achieve reasonable node selection is a problem worth considering. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This application provides a communication method and related apparatus for a first communication device to send sensing capability information to a second communication device. The sensing capability information includes a first sensing capability level, which indicates the sensing capability of the first communication device, i.e., the overall sensing capability of the first communication device. Alternatively, the sensing capability information includes one or more second sensing capability levels, each second sensing capability level indicating the sensing capability of the sensor corresponding to that second sensing capability level, thereby indicating the sensing capability of each sensor. Alternatively, the sensing capability information includes parameters of one or more sensors, facilitating the second communication device to determine whether to select the first communication device based on the sensing capability information. This enables the rational selection of sensing nodes to improve sensing accuracy and / or sensing range, thereby enhancing sensing performance.

[0006] This application provides a communication method, which can be applied to, for example, executed by, a first communication device. The first communication device can be a terminal device or an access network device, or a component within the terminal device or access network device (e.g., a processor, chip, or chip system), or a logic module or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the terminal device, or a logic module or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the access network device. The method includes: the first communication device determining sensing capability information, wherein the sensing capability information includes a first sensing capability level, the first sensing capability level indicating the sensing capability of the first communication device, the first sensing capability level being determined based on the sensing capabilities of multiple sensors of the first communication device; or, the sensing capability information includes one or more second sensing capability levels, the one or more second sensing capability levels corresponding one-to-one with one or more sensors of the first communication device, each second sensing capability level indicating the sensing capability of the sensor corresponding to the second sensing capability level; or, the sensing capability information includes parameters of one or more sensors, the parameters of the one or more sensors used to determine the sensing capability of the first communication device or to determine one or more second sensing capability levels; and the first communication device sending the sensing capability information to a second communication device.

[0007] In the above technical solution, the first communication device sends sensing capability information to the second communication device. The sensing capability information includes a first sensing capability level, which indicates the sensing capability of the first communication device, i.e., the overall sensing capability of the first communication device. Alternatively, the sensing capability information includes one or more second sensing capability levels, each second sensing capability level indicating the sensing capability of the sensor corresponding to that second sensing capability level, thereby indicating the sensing capability of each sensor. Alternatively, the sensing capability information includes parameters of one or more sensors. This facilitates the second communication device in determining whether to select the first communication device based on the sensing capability information. It enables the rational selection of sensing nodes to improve sensing accuracy and / or sensing range, thereby enhancing sensing performance.

[0008] Based on the first aspect, in one possible implementation, the first sensing capability level is determined based on the sensing capability levels of each of the multiple sensors. In this implementation, each sensor has a corresponding sensing capability level, and the first sensing capability level is determined by combining the sensing capability levels of the multiple sensors. This achieves a reasonable and accurate representation of the overall sensing capability of the first communication device. This allows the second communication device to refer to the first sensing capability level and, in conjunction with sensing requirements, determine whether to schedule the first communication device. This is beneficial for improving sensing performance.

[0009] Based on the first aspect, in one possible implementation, the first sensing capability level is determined based on the sensing capabilities of multiple sensors and the state of each sensor, where each sensor is either occupied or idle. Therefore, the first sensing capability level is further determined by considering the state of each sensor. This ensures that the first sensing capability level reflects the true sensing capability level of the first communication device. This avoids the problem of a second communication device scheduling the first communication device when some sensors are occupied, but the first communication device is unable to provide the corresponding sensing capability, resulting in low sensing accuracy.

[0010] Based on the first aspect, in one possible implementation, the first sensing capability level is determined according to the sensing capability level of each of the multiple sensors and the weights of the multiple sensors; or, the first sensing capability level is the minimum or maximum sensing capability level among the sensing capability levels of each of the multiple sensors. Several possible calculation methods for the first sensing capability level are provided, thus enriching the implementation of the scheme.

[0011] Based on the first aspect, in one possible implementation, the weights of the multiple sensors are determined according to the type of a first sensing task and a first mapping relationship. The first sensing task is a sensing task requested to be executed by the second communication device, and the first mapping relationship includes the mapping relationship between the type of the sensing task and the weights of the multiple sensors. In this implementation, the weights of the multiple sensors are related to the type of the first sensing task. This implementation calculates the overall sensing capability of the first communication device for the first sensing service. It also enables the accurate indication of the sensing capability of the first communication device through a first sensing capability level, so that the second communication device can determine whether to select the first communication device to execute the first sensing service.

[0012] Based on the first aspect, in one possible implementation, the sensing capability information further includes at least one of the following: the type or identifier of one or more sensors. This facilitates the second communication device in selecting a suitable sensor to perform the first sensing service.

[0013] Based on the first aspect, in one possible implementation, the method further includes: a first communication device receiving a first request or a first instruction from a second communication device, wherein the first request is for requesting sensing capability information, and the first instruction is for indicating the sensing capability level required by the second communication device. In this implementation, the first communication device can acquire the first request or the first instruction to provide sensing capability information to the second device.

[0014] Based on the first aspect, in one possible implementation, the first request further includes a type of the first sensing task or a second indication. The type of the first sensing task or the second indication is used to indicate the calculation method of the first sensing capability level. The first sensing task is a sensing task requested to be performed by the second communication device. This enables the first communication device to select an appropriate calculation method to calculate the first sensing capability level, thereby characterizing the overall sensing capability of the first communication device. This allows the second communication device to determine whether to select the first communication device to perform the first sensing service.

[0015] Based on the first aspect, in one possible implementation, the first request is further configured to request first status information, which indicates at least one of the following: the status of one or more sensors, the computing resource status of the first communication device, or the communication resource status, so as to enable the first communication device to provide the first status information to the second communication device.

[0016] Based on the first aspect, in one possible implementation, the method further includes: the first communication device sending first status information to the second communication device, the first status information indicating at least one of the following: the status of one or more sensors, the computing resource status of the first communication device, or the communication resource status. This facilitates the second communication device in further determining whether to schedule the first communication device based on the first status information. Achieving reasonable scheduling of sensing nodes is beneficial for improving sensing performance.

[0017] Based on the first aspect, in one possible implementation, the method further includes: a first communication device receiving a first signaling message from a second communication device, the first signaling message being used to schedule or activate the first communication device. This schedules the first communication device to enable it to perform a first sensing service.

[0018] Based on the first aspect, in one possible implementation, the first signaling further includes at least one of the following: the type and identifier of the activated sensor, the data type used to report the sensing data, or the sensing capability information reporting cycle. In this implementation, the second communication device can further select a corresponding type of sensor for the first communication device to perform the first sensing service, provide the data type of the sensing data, and specify the sensing capability information reporting cycle. This is beneficial for further improving sensing performance.

[0019] A second aspect of this application provides a communication method applicable to, for example, executed by, a second communication device. The second communication device may be a sensing management function (SMF), a component within the SMF (e.g., a processor, chip, or chip system), or a logic module or software capable of implementing all or part of the SMF's functions. The method includes: the second communication device receiving sensing capability information from a first communication device, wherein the sensing capability information includes a first sensing capability level, which indicates the sensing capability of the first communication device, and the first sensing capability level is determined based on the sensing capabilities of multiple sensors of the first communication device; or, the sensing capability information includes one or more second sensing capability levels, each of which corresponds one-to-one with one or more sensors of the first communication device, each second sensing capability level indicating the sensing capability of the sensor corresponding to the second sensing capability level; or, the sensing capability information includes parameters of one or more sensors, which determine the sensing capability of the first communication device or determine one or more second sensing capability levels.

[0020] In the above technical solution, the second communication device receives sensing capability information from the first communication device. The sensing capability information includes a first sensing capability level, which indicates the sensing capability of the first communication device, i.e., the overall sensing capability of the first communication device. Alternatively, the sensing capability information includes one or more second sensing capability levels, each second sensing capability level indicating the sensing capability of the sensor corresponding to that second sensing capability level, thereby indicating the sensing capability of each sensor. Alternatively, the sensing capability information includes parameters of one or more sensors. This facilitates the second communication device in determining whether to select the first communication device based on the sensing capability information. It enables the rational selection of sensing nodes to improve sensing accuracy and / or sensing range, thereby enhancing sensing performance.

[0021] Based on the second aspect, in one possible implementation, the first sensing capability level is determined based on the sensing capability levels of each of the multiple sensors. In this implementation, each sensor has a corresponding sensing capability level, and the first sensing capability level is determined by combining the sensing capability levels of multiple sensors. This achieves a reasonable and accurate representation of the overall sensing capability of the first communication device. This allows the second communication device to refer to this first sensing capability level and, in conjunction with sensing requirements, determine whether to schedule the first communication device. This is beneficial for improving sensing performance.

[0022] Based on the second aspect, in one possible implementation, the first sensing capability level is determined based on the sensing capabilities of multiple sensors and the state of each sensor, where each sensor is either occupied or idle. Therefore, the first sensing capability level is further determined by considering the state of each sensor. This ensures that the first sensing capability level reflects the true sensing capability level of the first communication device. It avoids the problem of the second communication device scheduling the first communication device when some sensors are occupied, but the first communication device is unable to provide the corresponding sensing capability, resulting in low sensing accuracy.

[0023] Based on the second aspect, in one possible implementation, the first sensing capability level is determined according to the sensing capability level of each of the multiple sensors and the weights of the multiple sensors; or, the first sensing capability level is the minimum or maximum sensing capability level among the sensing capability levels of each of the multiple sensors. Several possible calculation methods for the first sensing capability level are provided, thus enriching the implementation of the scheme.

[0024] Based on the second aspect, in one possible implementation, the weights of the multiple sensors are determined according to the type of a first sensing task and a first mapping relationship. The first sensing task is a sensing task requested to be executed by the second communication device, and the first mapping relationship includes the mapping relationship between the type of the sensing task and the weights of the multiple sensors. In this implementation, the weights of the multiple sensors are related to the type of the first sensing task. This implementation calculates the overall sensing capability of the first communication device for the first sensing service. It also enables the accurate indication of the sensing capability of the first communication device through a first sensing capability level, so that the second communication device can determine whether to select the first communication device to execute the first sensing service.

[0025] Based on the second aspect, in one possible implementation, the sensing capability information further includes at least one of the following: the type or identifier of one or more sensors. This facilitates the second communication device in selecting a suitable sensor to perform the first sensing service.

[0026] Based on the second aspect, in one possible implementation, the method further includes: the second communication device sending a first request or a first instruction to the first communication device, wherein the first request is used to request sensing capability information, and the first instruction is used to indicate the sensing capability level required by the second communication device. In this implementation, the second communication device sends the first request or the first instruction to the first communication device so that the second device can obtain sensing capability information from the first communication device.

[0027] Based on the second aspect, in one possible implementation, the first request further includes a type of the first sensing task or a second indication. The type of the first sensing task or the second indication is used to indicate the calculation method of the first sensing capability level. The first sensing task is a sensing task requested to be executed by the second communication device. This facilitates the first communication device in selecting an appropriate calculation method to calculate the first sensing capability level, thereby characterizing the overall sensing capability of the first communication device. It also enables the second communication device to reasonably determine whether to select the first communication device to execute the first sensing service.

[0028] Based on the second aspect, in one possible implementation, the first request is further used to request first status information, which indicates at least one of the following: the status of one or more sensors, the computing resource status of the first communication device, or the communication resource status, so as to enable the second communication device to obtain the first status information from the first communication device.

[0029] Based on the second aspect, in one possible implementation, the method further includes: the second communication device receiving first status information from the first communication device, the first status information indicating at least one of the following: the status of one or more sensors, the computing resource status of the first communication device, or the communication resource status. This facilitates the second communication device in further combining the first status information to determine whether to schedule the first communication device.

[0030] Based on the second aspect, in one possible implementation, the method further includes: the second communication device sending a first signaling message to the first communication device, the first signaling message being used to schedule or activate the first communication device. This schedules the first communication device to enable it to perform a first sensing service.

[0031] Based on the second aspect, in one possible implementation, the first signaling further includes at least one of the following: the type and identifier of the activated sensor, the data type used to report the sensing data, or the sensing capability information reporting cycle. In this implementation, the second communication device can further select a corresponding type of sensor for the first communication device to perform the first sensing service, provide the data type of the feedback sensing data, and specify the sensing capability information reporting cycle. This is beneficial for further improving sensing performance.

[0032] A third aspect of this application provides a first communication device, the first communication device comprising:

[0033] A processing module is configured to determine sensing capability information, wherein the sensing capability information includes a first sensing capability level, which indicates the sensing capability of a first communication device, and the first sensing capability level is determined based on the sensing capabilities of multiple sensors of the first communication device; or, the sensing capability information includes one or more second sensing capability levels, which correspond one-to-one with one or more sensors of the first communication device, and each second sensing capability level indicates the sensing capability of the sensor corresponding to the second sensing capability level; or, the sensing capability information includes parameters of one or more sensors, which are used to determine the sensing capability of the first communication device or to determine one or more second sensing capability levels.

[0034] The transceiver module is used to send sensing capability information to the second communication device.

[0035] Based on the third aspect, in one possible implementation, the first sensing capability level is determined based on the sensing capability level of each of the multiple sensors.

[0036] Based on the third aspect, in one possible implementation, the first sensing capability level is determined according to the sensing capabilities of multiple sensors and the state of each sensor among the multiple sensors, wherein the state of each sensor is occupied or idle.

[0037] Based on the third aspect, in one possible implementation, the first perception capability level is determined according to the perception capability level of each of the multiple sensors and the weight of the multiple sensors; or, the first perception capability level is the minimum or maximum perception capability level among the perception capability levels of each of the multiple sensors.

[0038] Based on the third aspect, in one possible implementation, the weights of the multiple sensors are determined according to the type of the first sensing task and the first mapping relationship. The first sensing task is a sensing task requested to be executed by the second communication device, and the first mapping relationship includes the mapping relationship between the type of the sensing task and the weights of the multiple sensors.

[0039] Based on the third aspect, in one possible implementation, the sensing capability information also includes at least one of the following: the type or identifier of one or more sensors.

[0040] Based on the third aspect, in one possible implementation, the transceiver module is further configured to: receive a first request or a first instruction from the second communication device, wherein the first request is used to request sensing capability information, and the first instruction is used to indicate the sensing capability level required by the second communication device.

[0041] Based on the third aspect, in one possible implementation, the first request further includes a type of the first sensing task or a second indication, the type of the first sensing task or the second indication being used to indicate the calculation method of the first sensing capability level, the first sensing task being a sensing task requested to be performed by the second communication device.

[0042] Based on the third aspect, in one possible implementation, the first request is further used to request first status information, which is used to indicate at least one of the following: the status of one or more sensors, the computing resource status of the first communication device, or the communication resource status.

[0043] Based on the third aspect, in one possible implementation, the transceiver module is further configured to: send first status information to the second communication device, the first status information being used to indicate at least one of the following: the status of one or more sensors, the computing resource status of the first communication device, or the communication resource status.

[0044] Based on the third aspect, in one possible implementation, the transceiver module is further configured to: receive a first signaling from the second communication device, the first signaling being used to schedule or activate the first communication device.

[0045] Based on the third aspect, in one possible implementation, the first signaling also includes at least one of the following: the type of activated sensor, its identifier, the data type used to report the sensing data, or the reporting cycle of sensing capability information.

[0046] A fourth aspect of this application provides a second communication device, the second communication device comprising:

[0047] A transceiver module is configured to receive sensing capability information from a first communication device, wherein the sensing capability information includes a first sensing capability level, which indicates the sensing capability of the first communication device and is determined based on the sensing capabilities of multiple sensors of the first communication device; or, the sensing capability information includes one or more second sensing capability levels, which correspond one-to-one with one or more sensors of the first communication device, and each second sensing capability level indicates the sensing capability of the sensor corresponding to the second sensing capability level; or, the sensing capability information includes parameters of one or more sensors, which are used to determine the sensing capability of the first communication device or to determine one or more second sensing capability levels.

[0048] Based on the fourth aspect, in one possible implementation, the first sensing capability level is determined based on the sensing capability level of each of the multiple sensors.

[0049] Based on the fourth aspect, in one possible implementation, the first sensing capability level is determined based on the sensing capabilities of multiple sensors and the state of each sensor among the multiple sensors, wherein the state of each sensor is occupied or idle.

[0050] Based on the fourth aspect, in one possible implementation, the first perception capability level is determined according to the perception capability level of each of the multiple sensors and the weight of the multiple sensors; or, the first perception capability level is the minimum or maximum perception capability level among the perception capability levels of each of the multiple sensors.

[0051] Based on the fourth aspect, in one possible implementation, the weights of the multiple sensors are determined according to the type of the first sensing task and the first mapping relationship. The first sensing task is a sensing task requested to be executed by the second communication device, and the first mapping relationship includes the mapping relationship between the type of the sensing task and the weights of the multiple sensors.

[0052] Based on the fourth aspect, in one possible implementation, the sensing capability information also includes at least one of the following: the type or identifier of one or more sensors.

[0053] Based on the fourth aspect, in one possible implementation, the transceiver module is further configured to: send a first request or a first instruction to the first communication device, wherein the first request is used to request sensing capability information, and the first instruction is used to indicate the sensing capability level required by the second communication device.

[0054] Based on the fourth aspect, in one possible implementation, the first request further includes a type of the first sensing task or a second indication, the type of the first sensing task or the second indication being used to indicate the calculation method of the first sensing capability level, the first sensing task being a sensing task requested to be performed by the second communication device.

[0055] Based on the fourth aspect, in one possible implementation, the first request is further used to request first status information, which is used to indicate at least one of the following: the status of one or more sensors, the computing resource status of the first communication device, or the communication resource status.

[0056] Based on the fourth aspect, in one possible implementation, the transceiver module is further configured to: receive first status information from the first communication device, the first status information being used to indicate at least one of the following: the status of one or more sensors, the computing resource status of the first communication device, or the communication resource status.

[0057] Based on the fourth aspect, in one possible implementation, the transceiver module is further configured to: send a first signaling to the first communication device, the first signaling being used to schedule or activate the first communication device.

[0058] Based on the fourth aspect, in one possible implementation, the first signaling also includes at least one of the following: the type of activated sensor, its identifier, the data type used to report the sensing data, or the reporting cycle of sensing capability information.

[0059] Regarding the first or third aspect mentioned above, the first communication device may be a terminal device or an access network device, or a component within the terminal device or access network device (e.g., a processor, chip, or chip system), or a logic module or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the terminal device, or a logic module or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the access network device. The transceiver module may be a transceiver, or an input / output interface; the processing module may be a processor.

[0060] In one implementation, the first communication device is a chip, chip system, or circuit configured in a terminal device or access network device. When the first communication device is a chip, chip system, or circuit configured in a terminal device or access network device, the transceiver module may be an input / output interface, interface circuit, output circuit, input circuit, pin, or related circuit on the chip, chip system, or circuit; the processing module may be a processor, processing circuit, or logic circuit.

[0061] Regarding the second or fourth aspect, the second communication device may be an SMF, or a component within an SMF (e.g., a processor, chip, or chip system), or a logic module or software capable of implementing all or part of the SMF's functions. The transceiver module may be a transceiver, or an input / output interface; the processing module may be a processor.

[0062] In one implementation, the second communication device is a chip, chip system, or circuit configured in the SMF. When the second communication device is a chip, chip system, or circuit configured in the SMF, the transceiver module may be an input / output interface, interface circuit, output circuit, input circuit, pin, or related circuit on the chip, chip system, or circuit; the processing module may be a processor, processing circuit, or logic circuit.

[0063] A fifth aspect of this application provides a first communication device, comprising a processor and a memory. The memory stores computer programs or computer instructions, and the processor is used to call and execute the computer programs or computer instructions stored in the memory, causing the processor to implement any of the implementations described in the first aspect.

[0064] Optionally, the first communication device further includes a transceiver, and the processor controls the transceiver to transmit and receive signals.

[0065] A sixth aspect of this application provides a second communication device, comprising a processor and a memory. The memory stores computer programs or computer instructions, and the processor is used to call and execute the computer programs or computer instructions stored in the memory, causing the processor to implement any of the implementation methods described in the second aspect.

[0066] Optionally, the second communication device further includes a transceiver, and the processor controls the transceiver to transmit and receive signals.

[0067] A seventh aspect of this application provides a first communication device, including a processor and an interface circuit. The processor is configured to communicate with other devices via the interface circuit and to implement the method described in the first aspect above. The processor may include one or more devices.

[0068] An eighth aspect of this application provides a second communication device, including a processor and an interface circuit. The processor is configured to communicate with other devices via the interface circuit and to implement the method described in the second aspect above. The processor may include one or more devices.

[0069] A ninth aspect of this application provides a first communication device, including a processor for connection to a memory, for calling a program stored in the memory to implement the method described in the first aspect. The memory may be located within or outside the first communication device. The processor may include one or more processors.

[0070] A tenth aspect of this application provides a second communication device, including a processor for connection to a memory, for calling a program stored in the memory to implement the method described in the second aspect above. The memory may be located within or outside the second communication device. The processor may include one or more processors.

[0071] In one implementation, the first communication device shown in the first, third, fifth, seventh, and ninth aspects above can be a chip or a chip system. The second communication device shown in the second, fourth, sixth, eighth, and tenth aspects above can also be a chip or a chip system.

[0072] The eleventh aspect of this application provides a computer program product including computer instructions, which, when run on a computer, causes the computer to implement the method as described in any one of the implementations of the first aspect to the second aspect.

[0073] The twelfth aspect of this application provides a computer-readable storage medium including computer instructions that, when executed on a computer, cause the computer to implement the method as described in any of the implementations of the first to second aspects.

[0074] The thirteenth aspect of this application provides a chip device including a processor for calling a computer program or computer instructions in memory to cause the processor to implement the method described in any of the implementations of the first to second aspects described above.

[0075] Optionally, the processor is coupled to the memory via an interface.

[0076] The fourteenth aspect of this application provides a communication system including a first communication device as shown in the third aspect and a second communication device as shown in the fourth aspect.

[0077] As can be seen from the above technical solution, the first communication device determines sensing capability information. This sensing capability information includes a first sensing capability level, which indicates the sensing capability of the first communication device and is determined based on the sensing capabilities of multiple sensors of the first communication device; or, the sensing capability information includes one or more second sensing capability levels, each corresponding one-to-one with one or more sensors of the first communication device, with each second sensing capability level indicating the sensing capability of the sensor corresponding to that second sensing capability level; or, the sensing capability information includes parameters of one or more sensors, which are used to determine the sensing capability of the first communication device or to determine one or more second sensing capability levels; the first communication device sends the sensing capability information to the second communication device. Therefore, the first communication device sends sensing capability information to the second communication device. The sensing capability information includes a first sensing capability level, which indicates the overall sensing capability of the first communication device. Alternatively, the sensing capability information includes one or more second sensing capability levels, each indicating the sensing capability of the sensor corresponding to that second sensing capability level, thereby indicating the sensing capability of each individual sensor. Alternatively, the sensing capability information may include parameters from one or more sensors, thereby facilitating the determination of the overall sensing capability of the first communication device or the sensing capability of each individual sensor. This allows the second communication device to determine whether to select the first communication device based on the sensing capability information. It also enables the rational selection of sensing nodes to improve sensing accuracy and / or sensing range, thereby enhancing sensing performance. Attached Figure Description

[0078] Figure 1a is a schematic diagram of a scenario for base station-side sensing according to an embodiment of this application;

[0079] Figure 1b is a schematic diagram of another scenario of base station-side sensing according to an embodiment of this application;

[0080] Figure 1c is a schematic diagram of a scenario for terminal device-assisted perception according to an embodiment of this application;

[0081] Figure 1d is a schematic diagram of another scenario for terminal device-assisted perception according to an embodiment of this application;

[0082] Figure 1e is a schematic diagram of a scenario perceived by the terminal device side according to an embodiment of this application;

[0083] Figure 1f is a schematic diagram of another scenario perceived by the terminal device side according to an embodiment of this application;

[0084] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of a communication system according to an embodiment of this application;

[0085] Figure 3 is another schematic diagram of the communication system according to an embodiment of this application;

[0086] Figure 4 is another schematic diagram of the communication system according to an embodiment of this application;

[0087] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of the application architecture of the RAN intelligent controller (RIC) module in the open radio access network (ORAN) system of this application;

[0088] Figure 6 is a structural schematic diagram of an access network device according to an embodiment of this application;

[0089] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the communication method of this application;

[0090] Figure 8 is a structural schematic diagram of a first communication device according to an embodiment of this application;

[0091] Figure 9 is a structural schematic diagram of a second communication device according to an embodiment of this application;

[0092] Figure 10 is a structural schematic diagram of a communication device according to an embodiment of this application;

[0093] Figure 11 is a structural schematic diagram of a terminal device according to an embodiment of this application;

[0094] Figure 12 is a schematic diagram of a network device according to an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0095] This application provides a communication method and related apparatus for a first communication device to send sensing capability information to a second communication device. The sensing capability information includes a first sensing capability level, which indicates the sensing capability of the first communication device, i.e., the overall sensing capability of the first communication device. Alternatively, the sensing capability information includes one or more second sensing capability levels, each second sensing capability level indicating the sensing capability of the sensor corresponding to that second sensing capability level, thereby indicating the sensing capability of each sensor. Alternatively, the sensing capability information includes parameters of one or more sensors, facilitating the determination of the overall sensing capability of the first communication device or the sensing capability of each sensor. This allows the second communication device to determine whether to select the first communication device based on the sensing capability information. It enables the rational selection of sensing nodes to improve sensing accuracy and / or sensing range, thereby enhancing sensing performance.

[0096] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of this application, and not all of them. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this application without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0097] The term "and / or" appearing in this application can describe the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent three cases: A alone, A and B simultaneously, and B alone. Additionally, the character " / " in this application generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects are in an "or" relationship. The terms "system" and "network" in the embodiments of this application can be used interchangeably. "At least one" refers to one or more, and "more than" refers to two or more. The character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects are in an "or" relationship. "At least one of the following" or similar expressions refer to any combination of these items, including any combination of single or multiple items. For example, "at least one of A, B, and C" includes A, B, C, AB, AC, BC, or ABC. Furthermore, unless otherwise specified, the ordinal numbers such as "first" and "second" mentioned in the embodiments of this application are used to distinguish multiple objects and are not used to limit the order, timing, priority, or importance of multiple objects. "Send" and "receive" in the embodiments of this application indicate the direction of signal transmission. For example, "sending information to XX" can be understood as the destination of the information being XX, which can include direct transmission via the air interface or indirect transmission via the air interface from other units or modules. "Receiving information from YY" can be understood as the source of the information being YY, which can include direct reception from YY via the air interface or indirect reception from YY via the air interface from other units or modules. "Sending" can also be understood as the "output" of the chip interface, and "receiving" can be understood as the "input" of the chip interface. In this application, both configuration and pre-configuration are used. Configuration refers to the network device sending configuration information or values ​​of some parameters to the terminal device via messages or signaling, so that the terminal device can determine the communication parameters or resources for transmission based on these values ​​or information. Pre-configuration is similar to configuration; it can be parameter information or values ​​negotiated in advance between the network device and the terminal device, parameter information or values ​​used by the network device and / or terminal device as specified by standard protocols, or parameter information or values ​​pre-stored in the network device and / or terminal device. This application does not limit this.

[0098] To conserve spectrum, hardware, and computing resources, the integration of communication and sensing is becoming a trend. Utilizing environmental information acquired during the sensing process to assist communication in achieving higher spectrum efficiency, or to obtain a more robust, resilient, and easily recoverable network, has become an important topic in sensing-assisted communication.

[0099] In integrated communication and sensing networks, nodes exhibit varying sensing capabilities (e.g., sensing accuracy, sensing range). Therefore, node selection and management directly impact the accuracy and range of environmental sensing. Consequently, how to characterize a node's sensing capabilities to achieve rational node selection is a crucial consideration. For instance, nodes utilize various sensor types, including radio electromagnetic wave sensors, lidar sensors, camera sensors, and acoustic sensors. The types (or data modalities) of the sensing data perceived by nodes can be images, point clouds, text, surface elements, voxels, video, and / or voice. This means nodes can possess multi-source, multi-modal sensing capabilities. Therefore, how to select and manage nodes based on their multi-source, multi-modal sensing capabilities to improve sensing accuracy and range is a worthwhile consideration.

[0100] Currently, sensing methods mainly include base station-side sensing, terminal device-assisted sensing, and terminal device-side sensing. Specifically, these can be divided into six sensing modes. These six sensing modes are described below with reference to Figures 1a to 1f.

[0101] Figure 1a is a schematic diagram of a scenario for base station-side sensing according to an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 1a, the access network device transmits a sensing reference signal. This sensing reference signal is reflected by a target object to obtain a reflected signal (or echo signal). The access network device receives the reflected signal and measures it to obtain a sensing measurement result. The access network device can send the sensing measurement result to the sensing management function.

[0102] Figure 1b is a schematic diagram of another scenario for base station-side sensing according to an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 1b, access network device #1 transmits a sensing reference signal. This sensing reference signal is reflected by the target object to obtain a reflected signal. Access network device #2 receives the reflected signal and measures the reflected signal to obtain a sensing measurement result. Access network device #2 can send the sensing measurement result to the sensing management function.

[0103] Figure 1c is a schematic diagram of a scenario for terminal device-assisted sensing according to an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 1c, the access network device transmits a sensing reference signal. This sensing reference signal is reflected by the target object to obtain a reflected signal. The terminal device receives the reflected signal and measures the reflected signal to obtain a sensing measurement result. The terminal device can report the sensing measurement result to the sensing management function.

[0104] Figure 1d is a schematic diagram of another scenario for terminal device-assisted sensing according to an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 1d, the terminal device transmits a sensing reference signal. This sensing reference signal is reflected by the target object to obtain a reflected signal. The access network device receives the reflected signal and measures the reflected signal to obtain a sensing measurement result. The access network device can send the sensing measurement result to the sensing management function.

[0105] Figure 1e is a schematic diagram of a scenario for sensing on the terminal device side according to an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 1e, the terminal device transmits a sensing reference signal. This sensing reference signal is reflected by the target object to obtain a reflected signal. The terminal device receives the reflected signal and measures the reflected signal to obtain a sensing measurement result. The terminal device can report the sensing measurement result to the sensing management function.

[0106] Figure 1f is a schematic diagram of another scenario for sensing on the terminal device side according to an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 1f, terminal device #1 transmits a sensing reference signal. This sensing reference signal is reflected by the target object to obtain a reflected signal. Terminal device #2 receives the reflected signal and measures the reflected signal to obtain a sensing measurement result. Terminal device #2 can report the sensing measurement result to the sensing management function.

[0107] This application applies to scenarios where terminal devices participate in sensing, as shown in Figures 1c to 1f above. It should be noted that Figures 1c to 1f are merely example scenarios, and this application does not limit the scenarios in which terminal devices participate in sensing. Any scenario involving terminal device sensing falls under the application scope of this application, and no specific limitations are imposed by this application.

[0108] The following describes some possible communication systems to which this application applies. It should be understood that this application also applies to other communication systems, and no specific limitations are imposed by this application.

[0109] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of a communication system according to an embodiment of this application. Referring to Figure 2, the communication system includes a terminal device 201, a next-generation node B (gNB) 202, a next-generation evolved node B (ng-eNB) 203, an access and mobility management function (AMF) 204, a user plane function (UPF) 205, and a sensing management function (SMF) 206.

[0110] Figure 2 shows the SMF206, which uses a user plane and control plane separation implementation as an example to illustrate the technical solution of this application. In practical applications, the user plane and control plane of SMF206 can also be integrated, and this application does not impose any restrictions on this.

[0111] It should be noted that the aforementioned access and mobility management function 204 and user plane function 205 are optional, and gNB202 and ng-eNB203 can connect to SMF206.

[0112] Terminal device 201 communicates with access network devices (gNB202 or ng-eNB203 in Figure 2) via the Uu interface. ng-eNB203 is an access network device in the Long Term Evolution (LTE) communication system, and gNB202 is an access network device in the New Radio (NR) communication system. In the communication system, access network devices communicate with each other via the Xn interface, and access network devices communicate with AMF204 via the NG-C interface. Access network devices communicate with UPF205 via the NG-U interface. UPF205 is connected to the user plane of SMF206, and AMF204 is connected to the control plane of SMF206. Optionally, access network devices communicate with SMF-U via UPF205 and with SMF-C via AMF204.

[0113] Access network equipment (such as gNB202 or ng-eNB203 in Figure 2) is deployed in the radio access network to provide wireless communication functions for terminal devices. AMF204 is responsible for mobility management in the mobile network, such as terminal device location updates, terminal device registration with the network, and terminal device handover. UPF205 is responsible for data forwarding and receiving in the terminal devices. SMF206 provides sensing-related functions, such as sensing node management, sensing resource coordination, processing of sensing measurements, and sharing of sensing results.

[0114] It should be noted that in the communication system shown in Figure 2 above, the access network equipment can also be directly connected to the SMF206, meaning that communication with the SMF206 does not require the use of the UPF205 and AMF204. Optionally, the SMF206 belongs to the core network.

[0115] Optionally, the communication system also includes a location management function (LMF), which is a network element, module, or component in the NR core network that provides location management for terminal devices. Optionally, the SMF206 can be integrated with the location management function or deployed separately; this application does not impose any specific limitations on this.

[0116] It should be noted that the name AMF204 in the communication system shown in Figure 2 above is merely an example. The name AMF204 may change as the communication system evolves. Any network element with a similar function to AMF204 can be understood as AMF204 in this application. For example, AMF204 can also be called a mobility management network element or mobility management function, etc., and this application does not limit its specific application. The name UPF205 may change as the communication system evolves. Any network element with a similar function to UPF205 can be understood as UPF205 in this application. For example, UPF205 can also be called a user plane network element or user plane management network element, etc., and this application does not limit its specific application.

[0117] Figure 2 above only shows an example of a communication system including two access network devices: a gNB and an ng-eNB. In practical applications, the communication system may include at least one access network device, and this application does not limit the specific device.

[0118] Figure 3 is another schematic diagram of the communication system according to an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 3, the communication system includes a terminal device 301, an access network device 302, an access network device 303, and an SMF 304. Access network device 302 and access network device 303 communicate via an Xn interface. SMF 304 is connected to both access network device 302 and access network device 303 via interfaces. Access network device 302 and access network device 303 can also be connected to different SMFs.

[0119] The SMF304 shown in Figure 3 can have a user plane and a control plane that are separate, or they can be combined. This application does not limit the specific configuration.

[0120] Figure 4 is another schematic diagram of the communication system according to an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 4, the communication system includes a terminal device 401, an access network device 402, an access network device 403, a UPF 404, and an AMF 405. Access network device 402 and access network device 403 communicate via an Xn interface. The SMF is deployed or integrated on access network device 402. Access network device 402 is connected to UPF 404 via an NG-U interface and to AMF 405 via an NG-C interface. Access network device 403 is connected to UPF 404 via an NG-U interface and to AMF 405 via an NG-C interface.

[0121] It should be noted that when the access network device 402 adopts a separate architecture of CU and DU, the SMF can be deployed or integrated on the CU or DU, and this application does not limit the specifics.

[0122] It should be noted that the names of the SMFs in Figures 2 to 4 above may change as the communication system evolves. Any functional network element with a name that has a similar function to an SMF can be understood as the SMF of this application. For example, an SMF can also be called a sensing node, a sensing management node, or a sensing management function, etc. This application does not limit the specific name.

[0123] The technical solution of this application can be applied to cellular communication systems related to the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP). For example, 4th generation (4G) communication systems, 5th generation (5G) communication systems, or future communication systems. For instance, 4th generation communication systems may include Long Term Evolution (LTE) communication systems, LTE Frequency Division Duplex (FDD) systems, or LTE Time Division Duplex (TDD) systems. 5th generation communication systems may include New Radio (NR) communication systems. The technical solution of this application can also be applied to Wireless Fidelity (WiFi) systems, communication systems supporting the convergence of multiple wireless technologies, device-to-device (D2D) systems, Internet of Things (IoT) communication systems, Industrial Internet (IIoT) communication systems, Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) communication systems, or satellite communication systems, etc.

[0124] The following describes the terminal equipment, access network equipment, and SMF involved in this application.

[0125] Terminal equipment, also known as user equipment (UE), mobile station (MS), mobile terminal (MT), customer premises equipment (CPE), etc., refers to devices that include wireless communication capabilities (providing voice / data connectivity to users). Examples include handheld devices with wireless connectivity, in-vehicle devices, and machine-type communication (MTC) terminals. Currently, terminal equipment can include: mobile phones, tablets, laptops, PDAs, mobile internet devices (MIDs), wearable devices, virtual reality (VR) devices, augmented reality (AR) devices, wireless terminals in industrial control, self-driving, remote medical surgery, smart grids, transportation safety, smart cities, and smart homes. For example, wireless terminals in autonomous driving can be drones, helicopters, or airplanes. Wireless terminals in vehicle-to-everything (V2X) systems can be in-vehicle equipment, vehicle components, in-vehicle modules, vehicles, or ships. Wireless terminals in industrial control can be cameras, robots, or robotic arms. Wireless terminals in smart homes can be televisions, air conditioners, robot vacuums, speakers, or set-top boxes. Terminal devices can also be transportation vehicles with wireless communication capabilities, communication modules, and roadside units (RSUs) with terminal device functions.

[0126] It should be noted that the terminal device can be a device or apparatus with a chip, or a device or apparatus with integrated circuitry, or a chip, module, or control unit in the device or apparatus shown above; this application does not limit the specifics. For example, the chip can be a chip in the terminal device responsible for communication functions, such as a modem chip, also known as a baseband chip, or a system-on-chip (SoC) chip or system-in-package (SIP) chip containing a modem core.

[0127] Access network equipment is a device deployed in a radio access network to provide wireless communication functions for terminal devices. Access network equipment may also be referred to as an access network (RAN) entity, access node, network node, network device, or communication device, etc.

[0128] Specifically, the access network equipment can be access network equipment for cellular systems related to the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP). For example, fourth-generation (4G) mobile communication systems, 5G mobile communication systems, or 6G mobile communication systems. The access network equipment can also be access network equipment in open RAN (O-RAN or ORAN) or cloud radio access network (CRAN). Alternatively, the access network equipment can also be access network equipment in a communication system resulting from the integration of two or more of the above communication systems.

[0129] Access network equipment includes, but is not limited to: evolved Node B (eNB), radio network controller (RNC), Node B (NB), base station controller (BSC), base transceiver station (BTS), home base station (e.g., home evolved Node B, or home Node B, HNB), baseband unit (BBU), access point (AP) in wireless fidelity (WIFI) systems, macro base station, micro base station, wireless relay node, donor node, radio controller in CRAN scenarios, wireless backhaul node, transmission point (TP), or transmission and receiving point (TRP). Access network equipment can also be access network equipment in 5G mobile communication systems. For example, next-generation Node B (gNB), TRP, TP in new radio (NR) systems, or one or a group of antenna panels (including multiple antenna panels) of a base station in a 5G mobile communication system. Alternatively, access network equipment can also be network nodes constituting a gNB or transmission point. Examples include a central unit (CU), a distributed unit (DU), a CU-control plane (CP), a CU-user plane (UP), or a radio unit (RU). CUs and DUs can be separate entities or included in the same network element, such as a BBU. RUs can be included in radio equipment or radio units, such as remote radio units (RRUs), active antenna units (AAUs), or remote radio heads (RRHs). Alternatively, access network equipment can also be servers, wearable devices, vehicles, or in-vehicle equipment. For example, in V2X technology, access network equipment can be roadside units (RSUs).

[0130] It should be noted that CU (or CU-CP and CU-UP), DU, or RU may have different names in different systems, but those skilled in the art will understand their meaning. For example, in an ORAN system, CU can also be called an open centralized unit (O-CU) or an open CU, DU can also be called an open distributed unit (O-DU), central unit control plane (CU-CP) can also be called an open centralized unit control plane (O-CU-CP) or an open CU-CP, central unit user plane (CU-UP) can also be called an open central unit user plane (O-CU-UP) or an open CU-UP, and RU can also be called an open radio unit (O-RU). This application does not impose any specific limitations. Any of the units CU, CU-CP, CU-UP, DU, and RU in this application can be implemented through software modules, hardware modules, or a combination of software and hardware modules.

[0131] Optionally, for network elements in the ORAN system, each network element can implement the protocol layer functions shown in Table 1 below.

[0132] Table 1

[0133] It should be noted that the access network equipment can be one or more network elements shown in Table 1 above, and this application does not limit the specific network elements.

[0134] It should be noted that Table 1 above is merely an example. In practical applications, the protocol layer functions supported by each network element are not limited. For example, each network element can support more protocol layer functions, or the specific protocol layer functions supported by each network element can be configured according to actual needs. This application does not impose any specific limitations.

[0135] The architecture of the CU and DU of the access network equipment is described below. An access network equipment includes at least one CU and at least one DU. Optionally, the access network equipment may also include at least one RU.

[0136] The following description uses an access network device consisting of one CU and one DU as an example. The CU has some core network functions and may include CU-CP and CU-UP. The CU and DU can be configured according to the protocol layer functions of the wireless network they implement. For example, the CU may be configured to implement the functions of the PDCP layer and above (e.g., RRC layer and / or SDAP layer). The DU may be configured to implement the functions of the protocol layers below the PDCP layer (e.g., RLC layer, MAC layer, and / or PHY layer). Alternatively, the CU may be configured to implement the functions of the PDCP layer and above (e.g., RRC layer and / or SDAP layer), and the DU may be configured to implement the functions of the PDCP layer and below (e.g., RLC layer, MAC layer, and / or PHY layer).

[0137] When a CU includes CU-CP and CU-UP, CU-CP is used to implement the control plane functions of the CU, and CU-UP is used to implement the user plane functions of the CU. For example, when a CU is configured to implement the functions of the PDCP layer, RRC layer, and SDAP layer, CU-CP is used to implement the RRC layer functions and the control plane functions of the PDCP layer, and CU-UP is used to implement the SDAP layer functions and the user plane functions of the PDCP layer.

[0138] The CU-CP can interact with network elements in the core network used to implement control plane functions. These control plane elements can be access and mobility function (AMF) elements, such as the AMF in a 5G mobile communication system. The AMF is responsible for mobility management in the mobile network, such as terminal device location updates, terminal device registration with the network, and terminal device handover. The CU-UP can interact with network elements in the core network used to implement user plane functions. These user plane elements, such as the UPF in a 5G mobile communication system, are responsible for data forwarding and receiving in terminal devices.

[0139] The above CU and DU configurations are merely examples; the functions of the CU and DU can be configured as needed. For instance, the CU or DU can be configured to have more protocol layer functions, or only some protocol layer processing functions. For example, some RLC layer functions and protocol layer functions above the RLC layer can be placed in the CU, while the remaining RLC layer functions and protocol layer functions below the RLC layer can be placed in the DU. Furthermore, the functions of the CU or DU can be divided according to service type or other system requirements. For example, based on latency, functions that require low latency can be placed in the DU, while functions that do not require low latency can be placed in the CU.

[0140] DU and RU can cooperate to implement the functions of the PHY layer. A DU can be connected to one or more RUs. The functions of DU and RU can be configured in various ways depending on the design. For example, a DU can be configured to implement baseband functions, and an RU can be configured to implement mid-RF functions. Another example is that a DU can be configured to implement higher-level functions in the PHY layer, and an RU can be configured to implement lower-level functions in the PHY layer, or to implement both lower-level and RF functions. Higher-level functions in the physical layer can include a portion of the physical layer's functions that are closer to the MAC layer, while lower-level functions in the physical layer can include another portion of the physical layer's functions that are closer to the mid-RF side.

[0141] It should be noted that the access network device can be the device or apparatus shown above, or a component (e.g., a chip), module, or unit in the device or apparatus shown above; this application does not limit the specifics.

[0142] Optionally, the ORAN architecture also involves a RIC module. Figure 5 illustrates the application architecture of the ORAN architecture involving the RIC module. As shown in Figure 5, the communication system includes an RIC module, specifically divided into near-real-time RIC (near-RT RIC) modules and non-real-time RIC (non-RT RIC) modules. The near-real-time RIC module is used for model training and inference. For example, the near-real-time RIC module is used to train an artificial intelligence (AI) model and then use this AI model for inference. The near-real-time RIC module can also obtain information for training or inferring the AI ​​model from access network nodes (e.g., CU, CU-CP, CU-UP, DU, and / or RU), and can also obtain information for training or inferring the AI ​​model from terminal devices. Optionally, the near-real-time RIC module can transmit the results obtained from training or inferring the AI ​​model to access network nodes and / or terminal devices. Optionally, the CU, DU, and RU can exchange these results. For example, the near real-time RIC transmits the results to the DU, which then sends the results to the RU, thereby enabling near real-time intelligent management of the access network.

[0143] The non-real-time RIC module is used for AI model training and inference. For example, it's used to train AI models and then perform inference using those models. The non-real-time RIC module can acquire data from access network nodes (e.g., CU, CU-CP, CU-UP, DU, and / or RU) and / or terminal devices, and use this data as training or inference data to train or infer AI models, obtaining the corresponding results. The non-real-time RIC module then transmits the results to the access network nodes and / or terminal devices. Optionally, the CU, DU, and RU can exchange these results. For example, the non-real-time RIC module passes the results to the DU, which then sends the results to the RU.

[0144] It should be understood that near real-time RIC modules and non-real-time RIC modules can be deployed as independent network elements or as part of other network devices. For example, near real-time RIC modules can be deployed in access network nodes. For example, near real-time RIC modules can be deployed in CUs and DUs, while non-near real-time RIC modules can be deployed in OAMs, cloud servers, core network devices, or other network devices.

[0145] The following is a structural diagram of an access network device including a CU and a DU. Figure 6 is a structural diagram of an access network device according to an embodiment of this application. Taking the access network device as a gNB as an example, please refer to Figure 6. In a 5G communication system, gNBs are connected to each other via the Xn interface, and gNBs are connected to the 5th generation mobile communication technology core (5GC) via the NG interface. As shown in Figure 6, gNB1 and gNB2 are connected via the Xn interface. gNB1 is connected to the 5GC via NG interface 1, and gNB2 is connected to the 5GC via NG interface 2.

[0146] A gNB can include a CU and a DU. This means the base station's functions are segmented; some functions are deployed in a gNB-CU, and the remaining functions are deployed in a gNB-DU. Multiple gNB-DUs share a single gNB-CU, which saves costs and facilitates network expansion. For example, as shown in Figure 6, gNB1 includes gNB-CU1, gNB-DU1, and gNB-DU2. gNB-CU1 is connected to gNB-DU1 via F1 interface 1, and to gNB-DU2 via F1 interface 2. The structure of gNB2 is similar to that of gNB1, and will not be described in detail here.

[0147] Figure 6 above is just an example. One gNB-CU can connect to one or more gNB-DUs. This application does not limit the specifics.

[0148] The gNB-CU and gNB-DU can be segmented according to the protocol stack. For example, the protocol stacks corresponding to the RRC layer, SDAP layer, and PDCP layer can be deployed on the gNB-CU. The protocol stacks corresponding to the radio link control (RLC) layer, MAC layer, and PHY layer can be deployed on the gNB-DU. The gNB-CU and gNB-DU are connected via the F1 interface. The above example is only for illustrating gNB-CU and gNB-DU, and this application does not limit the protocol stacks deployed on gNB-CU and gNB-DU.

[0149] In this application, in the scheme of using CU and DU structure for access network equipment as described below, gNB-CU is abbreviated as CU and gNB-DU is abbreviated as DU.

[0150] It should be noted that CU and DU are one way of dividing access network equipment into network units. The functions included in CU and DU can be divided according to evolution or needs, and this application does not limit the functions included in CU and DU respectively. This application also does not limit the names corresponding to CU and DU respectively.

[0151] SMF can acquire the perception capability information of a node and determine whether to select that node based on that information. When SMF determines to select a node, it can schedule that node.

[0152] The communication system provided in this application includes a first communication device and a second communication device. The first communication device can be a terminal device or an access network device, and the second communication device can be an SMF (Self-Service Provider). When the first communication device is a terminal device, the terminal device can communicate with the SMF through the access network device.

[0153] The technical solution of this application is described below with reference to specific embodiments.

[0154] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the communication method of this application. Referring to Figure 7, the method includes:

[0155] 701. The first communication device determines the sensing capability information.

[0156] The following describes some possible implementation methods for perceptual ability information. Other implementation methods are still applicable to this application, and this application does not limit them.

[0157] Implementation Method 1: The sensing capability information includes a first sensing capability level. The first sensing capability level is used to indicate the sensing capability of the first communication device. The first sensing capability level is determined based on the sensing capabilities of multiple sensors of the first communication device.

[0158] For example, the first sensing capability level is determined based on the sensing capability levels of each of the multiple sensors. The sensing capability level of each sensor indicates its sensing capability. For instance, different types of sensors among the multiple sensors may have different sensing capability levels, as shown in Table 2.

[0159] Table 2

[0160] As shown in Table 2, the perception ability level for Type 1 sensors is 0. For Type 2 sensors, it's 1. For Type 3 sensors, it's 8. For Type 4 sensors, it's 2. For Type 5 sensors, it's 3. Table 2 shows that perception ability level is represented by a degree value; the higher the degree value, the higher the perception ability level. Conversely, a higher degree value also indicates a lower perception ability level.

[0161] For example, sensors of the same type can also have different levels of sensing capability. As shown in Table 3, for lidar sensors, lidar sensors with different parameters have different levels of sensing capability.

[0162] Table 3

[0163] For example, as shown in Table 3, when the sensor type is a lidar sensor, and the lidar sensor has an angular resolution of 0.05°, a measurement resolution or accuracy of 1cm, a sampling frequency of 500kHz, and a measurement range of 1000m, the corresponding sensing capability level is 1. When the lidar sensor has an angular resolution of 0.1°, a measurement resolution or accuracy of 2cm, a sampling frequency of 100kHz, and a measurement range of 800m, the corresponding sensing capability level is 2.

[0164] For example, as shown in Table 4, for camera sensors, LiDAR sensors with different parameters have different levels of perception capability.

[0165] Table 4

[0166] For example, as shown in Table 4, the sensor type is a camera sensor. When the camera sensor has a sensor size of 2, an effective pixel count of 100 million, a dynamic range of 160dB, a sensitivity of 6400, and a signal-to-noise ratio of 80dB, the corresponding perception capability level is 1. When the camera sensor has a sensor size of 1, an effective pixel count of 80 million, a dynamic range of 120dB, a sensitivity of 3200, and a signal-to-noise ratio of 60dB, the corresponding perception capability level is 2. As shown in Table 4, the perception capability level is represented by a degree value; the larger the degree value, the higher the perception capability level. Conversely, a larger degree value also indicates a lower perception capability level.

[0167] Therefore, it can be seen that the sensing capability level of each sensor among multiple sensors can be determined based on the parameters of that sensor.

[0168] The following describes two possible implementations where the first sensing capability level is determined based on the sensing capability levels of each of the multiple sensors. Other implementations are also applicable to this application, and no specific limitations are imposed.

[0169] Implementation Method 1: The first perception capability level is determined based on the perception capability level of each of the multiple sensors and the weights of the multiple sensors.

[0170] For example, multiple sensors include n types of sensors, as shown in Table 5. The sensing capability level of type 1 sensor is represented by S1, the sensing capability level of type 2 sensor is represented by S2, and so on, with the sensing capability level of type n sensor represented by S... n .

[0171] Table 5

[0172] It should be noted that when the first communication device includes multiple sensors of the same type, the first communication device may select the sensing capability level of the sensor with the lowest, highest, or medium sensing capability level as the sensing capability level of that type of sensor in the first communication device. Of course, the first communication device may also adopt other selection methods, which are not limited in this application.

[0173] The weights of the n types of sensors are shown in Table 6:

[0174] Table 6

[0175] For example, in target recognition tasks, camera sensors play a more significant role, therefore their weight should be relatively high. In speed detection tasks, radar or radio wave sensors play a more significant role, therefore their weight should be relatively high.

[0176] Optional, first level of perception ability Here, round(x) means rounding x to the nearest whole number, or rounding x up or down.

[0177] Optionally, the weights of the multiple sensors are determined based on the type of the first sensing task and a first mapping relationship. The first sensing task is a sensing task requested to be performed by the second communication device. The first mapping relationship includes the mapping relationship between the type of sensing task and the weights of the multiple sensors. For example, the first mapping relationship can be represented as shown in Table 7:

[0178] Table 7

[0179] As shown in Table 7, different weight groups correspond to different sensing services, and the weights within different weight groups can be different. Each weight group includes the weights of multiple sensors. This allows the first communication device to reasonably calculate its first sensing capability level in conjunction with the first sensing service, so that the second communication device can determine whether to select the first communication device to execute the first sensing service based on the first sensing capability level. This helps the second communication device select appropriate nodes to improve sensing accuracy and / or sensing range, thereby improving sensing performance.

[0180] It should be noted that the first mapping relationship can be specified by the communication protocol, configured by the network device, or predefined; this application does not impose any specific restrictions.

[0181] It should be noted that the first level of perception ability can also be called the degree of first perception ability or the value of the degree of first perception ability; this application does not make any specific limitation.

[0182] Implementation method 2: The first sensing capability level is the minimum or maximum sensing capability level among the sensing capability levels of each of the multiple sensors; or, the first sensing capability level is the sum or average of the sensing capability levels of the multiple sensors.

[0183] For example, the first level of perception ability S = min(S1, S2, ..., S...). n Regarding S1 to S... n Please refer to the aforementioned related introduction.

[0184] Optionally, the first sensing capability level is determined based on the sensing capabilities of multiple sensors and the states of each sensor. Each sensor is either occupied or idle. For example, the multiple sensors include a camera sensor, a radar sensor, and a radio electromagnetic wave sensor. The radar sensor is in an occupied state, while the camera sensor and radio electromagnetic wave sensor are both in an idle state. Therefore, the first sensing capability level can be determined based on the sensing capability levels of the camera sensor and the radio electromagnetic wave sensor, without considering the sensing capability level of the radar sensor.

[0185] Optionally, the multiple sensors may be some or all of the sensors in the first communication device.

[0186] Optionally, the first communication device selects multiple sensors based on the type of the first sensing service. The first sensing service is a sensing service requested to be executed by the second communication device. The multiple sensors are sensors selected by the first communication device that can be used to execute the first sensing service. For example, the first communication device includes a lidar sensor, a radio electromagnetic wave sensor, and a camera sensor. If the first sensing service is a target recognition task, the first communication device can select the camera sensor and the radio electromagnetic wave sensor. That is, the multiple sensors include the camera sensor and the radio electromagnetic wave sensor, and are some of the sensors in the first communication device.

[0187] Implementation Method Two: The sensing capability information includes one or more second sensing capability levels. Each of the one or more second sensing capability levels corresponds one-to-one with one or more sensors of the first communication device. Each second sensing capability level characterizes the sensing capability of the sensor corresponding to that second sensing capability level.

[0188] For example, as shown in Table 3 or Table 4, the second sensing capability level of each sensor can be determined based on the parameters of that sensor.

[0189] It should be noted that the second level of perception ability may be called the degree of second perception ability, or the value of the degree of second perception ability, or other names, and this application does not limit the specific name.

[0190] Implementation Method 3: Sensing capability includes parameters from one or more sensors. The parameters from one or more sensors are used to determine the sensing capability of the first communication device or to determine one or more second sensing capability levels.

[0191] For example, for a LiDAR sensor, its parameters may include at least one of the following: angular resolution, sampling frequency, ranging sampling rate, or measurement range. For a camera sensor, its parameters may include at least one of the following: sensor size, effective pixels, dynamic range, sensitivity, or signal-to-noise ratio.

[0192] The parameters of the one or more sensors can be used to evaluate the sensing capability of the first communication device. For example, the second communication device can determine a third sensing capability level using the parameters of the one or more sensors. This third sensing capability level is used to indicate the sensing capability of the first communication device. The parameters of each sensor can be used to determine a second sensing capability level corresponding to that sensor, thereby indicating the sensing capability of that sensor.

[0193] Optionally, the sensing capability information may also include at least one of the following: the type or identifier of each of the one or more sensors.

[0194] Optionally, the embodiment shown in FIG7 further includes step 701a. Step 701a may be performed before step 701.

[0195] 701a. The second communication device sends a first request or a first instruction to the first communication device. Correspondingly, the first communication device receives the first request or the first instruction from the second communication device.

[0196] The first request is used to request sensing capability information, and the first indication is used to indicate the sensing capability level required by the second communication device. When the first communication device has the sensing capability level required by the second communication device, the first communication device can report its sensing capability information to the second communication device.

[0197] Optionally, the first request may be called a perception request or a perception capability request; however, this application does not specify the name of the first request.

[0198] Optionally, in the first implementation of step 701 above, the first communication device reflects its sensing capability through a first sensing capability level. This first implementation can be called a full-sensor sensing capability calculation method. In the second implementation of step 701 above, the first communication device reflects its sensing capability through one or more second sensing capability levels. This second implementation can be called a single-sensor sensing capability calculation method. The second communication device can also instruct the first communication device to determine its sensing capability level using either the full-sensor sensing capability calculation method or the single-sensor sensing capability calculation method via a third indication. Optionally, the third indication can be carried in the first request or in other information; this application does not specifically limit its inclusion.

[0199] Optionally, the first request may also include the type of the first sensing service or a second indication. The first sensing service is the service requested to be performed by the second communication device. The type of the first sensing service or the second indication is used to indicate the calculation method of the first sensing capability level. For example, as shown in Table 7, the type of the first sensing service may indicate the weights of multiple sensors used to calculate the first sensing capability level, that is, using different sets of weights to calculate the first sensing capability level can be understood as different calculation methods. Thus, the calculation method of the first sensing capability level is indirectly indicated through the type of the first sensing service. As another example, the value of the second indication may be an index as shown in Table 8, which indicates a set of weights, including the weights corresponding to various types of sensors. As shown in Table 8, if the value of the second indication is 1, then the weight of type 1 sensor is A1, the weight of type 2 sensor is A2, and so on, with the weight of type n sensor being A... n The set of weights indicated by the second instruction can be used to calculate the first level of perception ability. Using different sets of weights to calculate the first level of perception ability can be understood as different calculation methods.

[0200] Table 8

[0201] It should be noted that the type of the first sensing service or the second instruction can also be carried in other information, and this application does not limit the specifics.

[0202] Optionally, the first request may also be used to request first status information. The first status information is used to indicate at least one of the following: the status of one or more sensors, the computing resource status of the first communication device, or the communication resource status. For example, the first status information includes at least one of the following: the status of one or more sensors (e.g., whether each sensor is occupied), the computing power of the first communication device, the computing load, the communication bandwidth, or the communication load.

[0203] 702. The first communication device sends sensing capability information to the second communication device. Correspondingly, the second communication device receives the sensing capability information from the first communication device.

[0204] Optionally, the embodiment shown in FIG7 further includes step 703.

[0205] 703. The first communication device sends first status information to the second communication device. Correspondingly, the second communication device receives the first status information from the first communication device.

[0206] For information on the first state, please refer to the aforementioned introduction; it will not be repeated here.

[0207] It should be noted that there is no fixed execution order between steps 702 and 703. Step 702 can be executed first, followed by step 703; or step 703 can be executed first, followed by step 702; or, depending on the circumstances, steps 702 and 703 can be executed simultaneously. This application does not impose any specific restrictions on this.

[0208] Optionally, if the embodiment shown in FIG7 further includes step 701a, there is no fixed execution order between step 701a and step 703. Step 701a can be executed first, followed by step 703; or step 703 can be executed first, followed by step 701a; or, depending on the situation, steps 701a and 703 can be executed simultaneously. This application does not limit the specific execution order.

[0209] Optionally, the embodiment shown in FIG7 further includes steps 704 to 705. Steps 703 to 704 may be performed after step 702.

[0210] 704. The second communication device selects the first communication device based on the sensing capability information.

[0211] For example, the sensing capability information includes a first sensing capability level. The second communication device determines whether the first communication device has the sensing capability to perform the first sensing service based on the first sensing capability level. If so, the second communication device selects the first communication device.

[0212] For example, the sensing capability information includes one or more second sensing capability levels. The second communication device determines the overall sensing capability of the first communication device based on the one or more second sensing capability levels. The second communication device then determines whether the first communication device possesses the sensing capability to perform the first sensing service based on the overall sensing capability. If so, the second communication device selects the first communication device.

[0213] For example, the sensing capability information includes parameters from one or more sensors. The second communication device determines one or more second sensing capability levels based on these sensor parameters. The second communication device determines the overall sensing capability of the first communication device based on these one or more second sensing capability levels. The second communication device then determines whether the first communication device possesses the sensing capability to perform the first sensing service based on the overall sensing capability. If so, the second communication device selects the first communication device.

[0214] Optionally, the second communication device selects the first communication device based on the sensing capability information and the first state information. That is, in addition to combining the sensing capability information, the second communication device further combines the first state information to determine whether to select the first communication device. For example, when the sensor of the first communication device is idle, the second communication device can select the first communication device. As another example, when the computing resources and communication bandwidth of the first communication device are sufficient, the second communication device can select the first communication device.

[0215] 705. The second communication device sends a first signaling message to the first communication device. Correspondingly, the first communication device receives the first signaling message from the second communication device.

[0216] The first signaling is used to schedule or activate the first communication device.

[0217] Specifically, after the second communication device selects the first communication device, the second communication device can send a first signaling to the first communication device.

[0218] Optionally, the first signaling may further include at least one of the following: the type of activated sensor, its identifier, the data type used for reporting the sensed data, or the sense capability reporting cycle. For example, the first communication device includes a lidar sensor, a radio electromagnetic wave sensor, and a camera sensor. The data types or data modalities of the sensed data that the first communication device can acquire include: text, point clouds, and video. The second communication device may select a sensor from the first communication device to perform the first sensed service. For example, if the first sensed service is a target recognition task, the second communication device may instruct the first communication device on the camera sensor, the identifier of the camera sensor, the use of video to report sensed data, and the sense capability reporting cycle.

[0219] It should be noted that the information included in the first signaling above can also be indicated by other signaling, and this application does not limit the specifics.

[0220] Optionally, if the embodiment shown in FIG7 further includes step 703, steps 704 to 705 may be performed after step 703.

[0221] It should be noted that after receiving the first signaling, the first communication device can execute a sensing process and report the sensing data obtained in the sensing process to the second communication device. The sensing mode of the first communication device can be referred to the relevant descriptions in Figures 1a to 1f above. For example, if the first communication device is an access network device, the access network device can use the sensing modes shown in Figures 1a, 1b, and 1d to execute the sensing process to obtain sensing data. As another example, if the first communication device is a terminal device, the terminal device can use the sensing modes shown in Figures 1c, 1e, and 1f to execute the sensing process to obtain sensing data.

[0222] In the embodiment shown in Figure 7 above, the first communication device sends sensing capability information to the second communication device. The sensing capability information includes a first sensing capability level, which indicates the sensing capability of the first communication device, i.e., the overall sensing capability of the first communication device. Alternatively, the sensing capability information includes one or more second sensing capability levels, each second sensing capability level indicating the sensing capability of the sensor corresponding to that second sensing capability level, thereby indicating the sensing capability of each sensor. Alternatively, the sensing capability information includes parameters of one or more sensors, facilitating the determination of the overall sensing capability of the first communication device or the sensing capability of each sensor. This allows the second communication device to determine whether to select the first communication device based on the sensing capability information. It enables the rational selection of sensing nodes to improve sensing accuracy and / or sensing range, thereby enhancing sensing performance.

[0223] The first communication device provided in the embodiments of this application will now be described. Please refer to FIG8, which is a schematic structural diagram of the first communication device in the embodiments of this application. The first communication device 800 can be used to perform the steps performed by the first communication device in the embodiment shown in FIG7. For details, please refer to the relevant description of the above method embodiments. The first communication device 800 includes a transceiver module 801 and a processing module 802.

[0224] The processing module 802 is used for data processing. The transceiver module 801 can implement the corresponding communication functions. The transceiver module 801 can also be called a communication interface or a communication module.

[0225] Optionally, the first communication device 800 may further include a storage module, which can be used to store program code, program instructions and / or data. The processing module 802 can read the instructions and / or data in the storage module so that the first communication device 800 can implement the aforementioned method embodiment.

[0226] The first communication device 800 can be used to perform the actions performed by the first communication device in the above method embodiments. The first communication device 800 can be a terminal device, an access network device, or a component configurable on a terminal device or an access network device. The processing module 802 is used to perform processing-related operations on the first communication device side in the above method embodiments. The transceiver module 801 is used to perform receiving-related operations on the first communication device side in the above method embodiments.

[0227] Optionally, the transceiver module 801 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.

[0228] It should be noted that the first communication device 800 may include a transmitting module but not a receiving module. Alternatively, the first communication device 800 may include a receiving module but not a transmitting module. Specifically, it depends on whether the above-described scheme executed by the first communication device 800 includes both transmitting and receiving actions. For example, the first communication device 800 is used to execute the actions performed by the first communication device in the embodiment shown in FIG. 7. For details, please refer to the relevant description in the embodiment shown in FIG. 7; it will not be elaborated upon here.

[0229] For example, the first communication device 800 is used to execute the following scheme:

[0230] The processing module 802 is used to determine sensing capability information, wherein the sensing capability information includes a first sensing capability level, which indicates the sensing capability of the first communication device 800, and the first sensing capability level is determined based on the sensing capabilities of multiple sensors of the first communication device 800; or, the sensing capability information includes one or more second sensing capability levels, which correspond one-to-one with one or more sensors of the first communication device 800, and each second sensing capability level indicates the sensing capability of the sensor corresponding to the second sensing capability level; or, the sensing capability information includes parameters of one or more sensors, which are used to determine the sensing capability of the first communication device 800 or to determine one or more second sensing capability levels.

[0231] The transceiver module 801 is used to send sensing capability information to the second communication device.

[0232] For other implementation methods, please refer to the relevant description of the embodiment shown in Figure 7 above, which will not be repeated here.

[0233] It should be understood that the specific procedures for each module to perform the above-mentioned corresponding processes have been described in detail in the above method embodiments, and will not be repeated here for the sake of brevity.

[0234] The processing module 802 in the above embodiments can be implemented by at least one processor or processor-related circuitry. The transceiver module 801 can be implemented by a transceiver or transceiver-related circuitry. The transceiver module 801 can also be referred to as a communication module or communication interface. The storage module can be implemented by at least one memory.

[0235] The second communication device provided in the embodiments of this application is described below. Please refer to FIG9, which is a structural schematic diagram of the second communication device according to an embodiment of this application. The second communication device 900 can be used to execute the steps performed by the second communication device in the embodiment shown in FIG7. For details, please refer to the relevant description of the above method embodiments. The second communication device 900 includes a transceiver module 901. Optionally, the second communication device 900 further includes a processing module 902.

[0236] The processing module 902 is used for data processing. The transceiver module 901 can implement the corresponding communication functions. The transceiver module 901 can also be called a communication interface or a communication module.

[0237] Optionally, the second communication device 900 may further include a storage module, which can be used to store program code, program instructions and / or data. The processing module 902 can read the instructions and / or data in the storage module so that the second communication device 900 can implement the aforementioned method embodiment.

[0238] The second communication device 900 can be used to perform the actions performed by the second communication device in the above method embodiment. The second communication device 900 can be an SMF or a component configurable in an SMF. The processing module 902 is used to perform processing-related operations on the second communication device side in the above method embodiment. The transceiver module 901 is used to perform receiving-related operations on the second communication device side in the above method embodiment.

[0239] Optionally, the transceiver module 901 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.

[0240] It should be noted that the second communication device 900 may include a transmitting module but not a receiving module. Alternatively, the second communication device 900 may include a receiving module but not a transmitting module. Specifically, it depends on whether the above-described scheme performed by the second communication device 900 includes both transmitting and receiving actions. For example, the second communication device 900 is used to perform the actions performed by the second communication device in the embodiment shown in FIG. 7. For details, please refer to the relevant description in the embodiment shown in FIG. 7, which will not be elaborated here.

[0241] For example, the second communication device 900 is used to execute the following scheme:

[0242] The transceiver module 901 is configured to receive sensing capability information from a first communication device, wherein the sensing capability information includes a first sensing capability level, which indicates the sensing capability of the first communication device and is determined based on the sensing capabilities of multiple sensors of the first communication device; or, the sensing capability information includes one or more second sensing capability levels, which correspond one-to-one with one or more sensors of the first communication device, and each second sensing capability level indicates the sensing capability of the sensor corresponding to the second sensing capability level; or, the sensing capability information includes parameters of one or more sensors, which are used to determine the sensing capability of the first communication device or to determine one or more second sensing capability levels.

[0243] For other implementation methods, please refer to the relevant description of the embodiment shown in Figure 7 above, which will not be repeated here.

[0244] It should be understood that the specific procedures for each module to perform the above-mentioned corresponding processes have been described in detail in the above method embodiments, and will not be repeated here for the sake of brevity.

[0245] The processing module 902 in the above embodiments can be implemented by at least one processor or processor-related circuitry. The transceiver module 901 can be implemented by a transceiver or transceiver-related circuitry. The transceiver module 901 can also be referred to as a communication module or communication interface. The storage module can be implemented by at least one memory.

[0246] This application embodiment also provides a communication device 1000. Referring to FIG10, the communication device 1000 includes a processor 1010, which is coupled to a memory 1020. The memory 1020 is used to store computer programs or instructions and / or data. The processor 1010 is used to execute the computer programs or instructions and / or data stored in the memory 1020, causing the methods in the above method embodiments to be executed. The communication device 1000 is used to implement the operations performed by the first communication device or the second communication device in the above method embodiments.

[0247] Optionally, the communication device 1000 may include one or more processors 1010.

[0248] Optionally, as shown in Figure 10, the communication device 1000 may also include a memory 1020.

[0249] Optionally, the communication device 1000 may include one or more memory 1020.

[0250] Optionally, the memory 1020 can be integrated with the processor 1010 or set separately.

[0251] Optionally, as shown in FIG10, the communication device 1000 may further include a transceiver 1030, which is used for receiving and / or transmitting signals. For example, the processor 1010 is used to control the transceiver 1030 to receive and / or transmit signals.

[0252] This application also provides a communication device 1100, which can be a terminal device, a processor in the terminal device, or a chip. The communication device 1100 can be used to perform the operations performed by the first communication device in the above method embodiments.

[0253] When the communication device 1100 is a terminal device, Figure 11 shows a simplified structural diagram of the terminal device. As shown in Figure 11, the terminal device includes a processor, a memory, and a transceiver. The memory can store computer program code, and the transceiver includes a transmitter 1131, a receiver 1132, radio frequency circuitry (not shown in the figure), an antenna 1133, and input / output devices (not shown in the figure).

[0254] The processor is mainly used to process communication protocols and communication data; control terminal devices; execute software programs; and process data from software programs.

[0255] Memory is mainly used to store software programs and data.

[0256] Radio frequency (RF) circuits are mainly used for the conversion between baseband signals and RF signals, as well as for the processing of RF signals.

[0257] Antennas are primarily used for transmitting and receiving radio frequency signals in the form of electromagnetic waves.

[0258] Input / output devices can include touchscreens, displays, or keyboards. They are primarily used to receive user input and output data to the user. It should be noted that some types of terminal devices may not have input / output devices.

[0259] When data needs to be transmitted, the processor performs baseband processing on the data to be transmitted and outputs a baseband signal to the radio frequency (RF) circuit. The RF circuit then processes the baseband signal and transmits it outwards as electromagnetic waves via an antenna. When data is sent to the terminal device, the RF circuit receives the RF signal through the antenna. The RF circuit converts the RF signal back into a baseband signal and outputs it to the processor. The processor converts the baseband signal back into data and processes the data. For ease of explanation, Figure 11 only shows one memory, processor, and transceiver. In actual terminal device products, there may be one or more processors and one or more memories. Memory can also be called storage medium or storage device, etc. Memory can be set up independently of the processor or integrated with the processor; this embodiment does not limit this.

[0260] In this embodiment, the antenna and radio frequency circuit with transceiver function can be regarded as the transceiver module of the terminal device, and the processor with processing function can be regarded as the processing module of the terminal device.

[0261] As shown in Figure 11, the terminal device includes a processor 1110, a memory 1120, and a transceiver 1130. The processor 1110 can also be referred to as a processing unit, processing board, processing module, or processing device, etc. The transceiver 1130 can also be referred to as a transceiver unit, transceiver, or transceiver device, etc.

[0262] Optionally, the device in transceiver 1130 used to implement the receiving function can be considered a receiving module, and the device in transceiver 1130 used to implement the transmitting function can be considered a transmitting module. That is, transceiver 1130 includes a receiver and a transmitter. A transceiver may sometimes be called a transceiver unit, transceiver module, or transceiver circuit, etc. A receiver may sometimes be called a receiver unit, receiving module, or receiving circuit, etc. A transmitter may sometimes be called a transmitter, transmitting module, or transmitting circuit, etc.

[0263] The processor 1110 is used to execute the processing operations on the first communication device side in the embodiment shown in FIG. 7. The transceiver 1130 is used to execute the transmission and reception operations on the first communication device side in the embodiment shown in FIG. 7.

[0264] It should be understood that Figure 11 is merely an example and not a limitation, and the terminal device described above, including the transceiver module and the processing module, may not depend on the structure shown in Figure 8, Figure 10, or Figure 11.

[0265] When the communication device 1100 is a chip, the chip includes a processor, a memory, and a transceiver. The transceiver can be an input / output circuit or a communication interface. The processor can be a processing module integrated on the chip, a microprocessor, or an integrated circuit. In the above method embodiments, the transmitting operation of the first communication device can be understood as the chip's output, and the receiving operation of the first communication device in the above method embodiments can be understood as the chip's input.

[0266] This application also provides a communication device 1200, which can be a network device or a chip. The communication device 1200 can be used to perform the operations performed by the first communication device in the embodiment shown in FIG7 above.

[0267] When the communication device 1200 is a network device, such as a base station, Figure 12 shows a simplified schematic diagram of a base station structure. The base station includes parts 1210, 1220, and 1230.

[0268] The 1210 section is mainly used for baseband processing and controlling the base station; the 1210 section is usually the control center of the base station, which can be called a processor, and is used to control the base station to perform the processing operations on the second communication device side in the above method embodiment.

[0269] Section 1220 is primarily used to store computer program code and data.

[0270] Section 1230 is primarily used for transmitting and receiving radio frequency (RF) signals, as well as converting RF signals to baseband signals. Section 1230 is commonly referred to as a transceiver module, transceiver, transceiver circuit, or transceiver unit. The transceiver module of section 1230, also called a transceiver or transceiver unit, includes antenna 1233 and RF circuitry (not shown in the figure), where the RF circuitry is mainly used for RF processing. Optionally, the device in section 1230 that performs the receiving function can be considered a receiver, and the device that performs the transmitting function can be considered a transmitter; that is, section 1230 includes receiver 1232 and transmitter 1231. The receiver can also be called a receiving module, receiver circuit, or receiving circuit, and the transmitter can be called a transmitting module, transmitter, or transmitting circuit.

[0271] Sections 1210 and 1220 may include one or more circuit boards, each of which may include one or more processors and one or more memories. The processors are used to read and execute programs from the memories to implement baseband processing functions and control the base station. If multiple circuit boards exist, they can be interconnected to enhance processing capabilities. As an optional implementation, multiple circuit boards may share one or more processors, multiple circuit boards may share one or more memories, or multiple circuit boards may simultaneously share one or more processors.

[0272] For example, in one implementation, the transceiver module of section 1230 is used to execute the transceiver-related processes performed by the second communication device in the embodiment shown in FIG. 7. The processor of section 1210 is used to execute the processing-related processes performed by the second communication device in the embodiment shown in FIG. 7.

[0273] It should be understood that Figure 12 is merely an example and not a limitation, and the network device described above, including the processor, memory, and transceiver, may not depend on the structure shown in Figure 8, Figure 10, or Figure 12.

[0274] When the communication device 1200 is a chip, the chip includes a transceiver, a memory, and a processor. The transceiver can be an input / output circuit or a communication interface; the processor can be a processor integrated on the chip, a microprocessor, or an integrated circuit. In the above method embodiments, the transmitting operation of the first communication device can be understood as the chip's output, and the receiving operation of the first communication device in the above method embodiments can be understood as the chip's input.

[0275] This application also provides a computer-readable storage medium storing computer instructions for implementing the methods executed by the first communication device or the second communication device in the above method embodiments.

[0276] For example, when the computer program is executed by a computer, it enables the computer to implement the method performed by the first communication device or the second communication device in the above method embodiments.

[0277] This application also provides a computer program product containing instructions that, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to perform the method described in the above method embodiments, executed by the first communication device or the second communication device.

[0278] This application also provides a communication system, which includes a first communication device and a second communication device. The first communication device is used to perform some or all of the operations performed by the first communication device in the embodiment shown in FIG7, and the second communication device is used to perform some or all of the operations performed by the second communication device in the embodiment shown in FIG7.

[0279] This application also provides a chip device, including a processor, for calling computer programs or computer instructions stored in the memory to cause the processor to execute the method provided in the embodiment shown in FIG7 above.

[0280] In one possible implementation, the input of the chip device corresponds to the receiving operation in the embodiment shown in FIG7 above, and the output of the chip device corresponds to the sending operation in the embodiment shown in FIG7 above.

[0281] Optionally, the processor is coupled to the memory via an interface.

[0282] Optionally, the chip device may also include a memory that stores computer programs or computer instructions.

[0283] The processor mentioned above can be a general-purpose central processing unit, a microprocessor, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or one or more integrated circuits used to control the execution of a program for controlling the method provided in the embodiment shown in Figure 7. The memory mentioned above can be read-only memory (ROM) or other types of static storage devices capable of storing static information and instructions, such as random access memory (RAM).

[0284] Those skilled in the art will clearly understand that, for the sake of convenience and brevity, the explanations and beneficial effects of the relevant contents in any of the above-mentioned devices can be referred to the corresponding method embodiments provided above, and will not be repeated here.

[0285] 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 an indirect coupling or communication connection between apparatuses or units through some interfaces, and may be electrical, mechanical, or other forms.

[0286] 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.

[0287] Furthermore, 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. The integrated unit can be implemented in hardware or as a software functional unit.

[0288] If the integrated unit is implemented as a software functional unit and sold or used as an independent product, it can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium. Based on this understanding, the essential contribution of the technical solution of this application, or all or part of the technical solution, can be embodied in the form of a software product. This computer software product is stored in a storage medium and includes several instructions to cause a computer device (which may be a personal computer, server, or network device, etc.) to execute all or part of the steps of the methods described in the various embodiments of this application. The aforementioned storage medium includes various media capable of storing program code, such as USB flash drives, portable hard drives, ROM, RAM, magnetic disks, or optical disks.

[0289] The above-described embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this application, and are not intended to limit it. Although this application has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some of the technical features. Such modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application.

Claims

A communication method, characterized in that, include: A first communication device determines sensing capability information, wherein the sensing capability information includes a first sensing capability level, which indicates the sensing capability of the first communication device, and the first sensing capability level is determined based on the sensing capabilities of multiple sensors of the first communication device; or, the sensing capability information includes one or more second sensing capability levels, which correspond one-to-one with one or more sensors of the first communication device, and each second sensing capability level indicates the sensing capability of the sensor corresponding to the second sensing capability level; or, the sensing capability information includes parameters of the one or more sensors, which are used to determine the sensing capability of the first communication device or to determine the one or more second sensing capability levels. The first communication device sends the sensing capability information to the second communication device. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first perception capability level is determined based on the perception capability level of each of the plurality of sensors. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The first perception capability level is determined based on the perception capability of the plurality of sensors and the state of each sensor among the plurality of sensors, wherein the state of each sensor is occupied or idle. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The first sensing capability level is determined based on the sensing capability level of each of the plurality of sensors and the weights of the plurality of sensors; or, The first perception capability level is the minimum or maximum perception capability level among the perception capability levels of each of the plurality of sensors. The method according to claim 4, characterized in that, The weights of the plurality of sensors are determined based on the type of a first sensing task and a first mapping relationship. The first sensing task is a sensing task requested to be executed by the second communication device. The first mapping relationship includes the mapping relationship between the type of sensing task and the weights of the plurality of sensors. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, The sensing capability information also includes at least one of the following: the type or identifier of the one or more sensors. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, Also includes: The first communication device receives a first request or a first instruction from the second communication device, wherein the first request is for requesting the perception capability information, and the first instruction is for indicating the required perception capability level of the second communication device. The method according to claim 7, characterized in that, The first request also includes a type of the first sensing task or a second indication, the type of the first sensing task or the second indication being used to indicate the calculation method of the first sensing capability level, the first sensing task being a sensing task requested to be performed by the second communication device. The method according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that, The first request is also used to request first status information, which indicates at least one of the following: the status of the one or more sensors, the computing resource status of the first communication device, or the communication resource status. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that, Also includes: The first communication device sends first status information to the second communication device, the first status information being used to indicate at least one of the following: the status of the one or more sensors, the computing resource status of the first communication device, or the communication resource status. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that, Also includes: The first communication device receives a first signaling from the second communication device, the first signaling being used to schedule or activate the first communication device. The method according to claim 11 is characterized in that, The first signaling also includes at least one of the following: the type of activated sensor, its identifier, the data type used to report the sensing data, or the reporting cycle of sensing capability information. A communication method, characterized in that, include: The second communication device receives sensing capability information from the first communication device, wherein the sensing capability information includes a first sensing capability level, which indicates the sensing capability of the first communication device, and the first sensing capability level is determined based on the sensing capabilities of multiple sensors of the first communication device; or, the sensing capability information includes one or more second sensing capability levels, which correspond one-to-one with one or more sensors of the first communication device, and each second sensing capability level indicates the sensing capability of the sensor corresponding to the second sensing capability level; or, the sensing capability information includes parameters of the one or more sensors, which are used to determine the sensing capability of the first communication device or to determine the one or more second sensing capability levels. The method according to claim 13, characterized in that, The first perception capability level is determined based on the perception capability level of each of the plurality of sensors. The method according to claim 13 or 14 is characterized in that, The first perception capability level is determined based on the perception capability of the plurality of sensors and the state of each sensor among the plurality of sensors, wherein the state of each sensor is occupied or idle. The method according to any one of claims 13 to 15, characterized in that, The first sensing capability level is determined based on the sensing capability level of each of the plurality of sensors and the weights of the plurality of sensors; or, The first perception capability level is the minimum or maximum perception capability level among the perception capability levels of each of the plurality of sensors. The method according to claim 16, characterized in that, The weights of the plurality of sensors are determined based on the type of a first sensing task and a first mapping relationship. The first sensing task is a sensing task requested to be executed by the second communication device. The first mapping relationship includes the mapping relationship between the type of sensing task and the weights of the plurality of sensors. The method according to any one of claims 13 to 17, characterized in that, The sensing capability information also includes at least one of the following: the type or identifier of the one or more sensors. The method according to any one of claims 13 to 18, characterized in that, Also includes: The second communication device sends a first request or a first instruction to the first communication device, wherein the first request is used to request the perception capability information, and the first instruction is used to indicate the perception capability level required by the second communication device. The method according to claim 19, characterized in that, The first request also includes a type of the first sensing task or a second indication, the type of the first sensing task or the second indication being used to indicate the calculation method of the first sensing capability level, the first sensing task being a sensing task requested to be performed by the second communication device. The method according to claim 19 or 20 is characterized in that, The first request is also used to request first status information, which indicates at least one of the following: the status of the one or more sensors, the computing resource status of the first communication device, or the communication resource status. The method according to any one of claims 13 to 21 is characterized in that, Also includes: The second communication device receives first status information from the first communication device, the first status information indicating at least one of the following: the status of the one or more sensors, the computing resource status of the first communication device, or the communication resource status. The method according to any one of claims 13 to 22 is characterized in that, Also includes: The second communication device sends a first signaling message to the first communication device, the first signaling message being used to schedule or activate the first communication device. The method according to claim 23 is characterized in that, The first signaling also includes at least one of the following: the type of activated sensor, its identifier, the data type used to report the sensing data, or the reporting cycle of sensing capability information. A communication device, characterized in that, The communication device includes a module for performing the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 12, or includes a module for performing the method as described in any one of claims 13 to 24. A communication device, characterized in that, The communication device includes a processor configured to execute a computer program or computer instructions in a memory to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 12, or to perform the method as described in any one of claims 13 to 24. The apparatus according to claim 26 is characterized in that, The device also includes a transceiver, and the processor and the transceiver are interconnected via a line. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, It stores a computer program thereon, which, when executed by the device, causes the device to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 24.

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