Communication method and related apparatus

Abstract

Provided in the present application are a communication method and a related apparatus, which help a terminal device to determine the direction of a reception beam, thereby improving the communication performance. The method comprises: a first satellite determining a reference position of an updated first satellite set, wherein the reference position is a reference position of a transmission beam of the first satellite set, the first satellite set comprises a plurality of satellites, and the plurality of satellites serve the same terminal device; and the first satellite transmitting a first message to a first terminal device, wherein the first message comprises the reference position of the updated first satellite set, or, comprises an offset of the reference position of the updated first satellite set relative to a reference position of the non-updated first satellite set.

Description

Communication methods and related devices

[0001] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202411216182.6, filed on August 30, 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 communications, and more particularly to a communication method and related apparatus. Background Technology

[0003] In non-terrestrial network (NTN) communication systems, the onboard data processing capabilities and transmission power are limited by the manufacturing and launch costs of satellites. Currently, NTN cannot provide terminal devices with communication rates comparable to those of terrestrial communication networks.

[0004] To overcome these limitations and improve the overall signal processing capabilities and communication throughput of NTN (Network Telecommunications), satellite operators are preparing to launch giant low-Earth orbit (LEO) constellations, compensating for the limitations of individual satellite communication capabilities by increasing the number of satellites. In future NTN communication systems, after a terminal device connects to the system, it can communicate with multiple capable satellites for a period of time. In other words, multiple satellites can provide communication services to a single terminal device, providing the foundation for multi-satellite collaborative transmission. Multi-satellite collaborative transmission can include both coherent and incoherent multi-satellite transmission.

[0005] During multi-satellite coherent transmission, due to the rapid movement of satellites, the multiple satellites providing communication services to a terminal device may change, which may lead to the problem that the receiving beam of the terminal device cannot be aligned with the transmitting beams of multiple satellites. Summary of the Invention

[0006] This application provides a communication method and related apparatus, which helps terminal equipment determine the direction of the receiving beam and improves communication performance.

[0007] Firstly, a communication method is provided that can be applied to the network side, such as a satellite or a communication module in a satellite, or a circuit or chip in a satellite that is 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). The following description uses the application of this method to a first satellite as an example.

[0008] The method includes: determining an updated reference position of a first satellite set, the reference position being a reference position of a transmission beam of the first satellite set, the first satellite set including multiple satellites serving the same terminal device; and sending a first message, the first message including the updated reference position of the first satellite set, or including an offset of the updated reference position of the first satellite set relative to the reference position of the first satellite set before the update.

[0009] In multi-satellite coherent transmission scenarios, multiple satellites collaborate to provide communication services to a first terminal device, which helps improve link quality. These multiple satellites form a satellite set, referred to as the first satellite set. If the reference position of the transmitting beam of the first satellite set is updated, the first satellite in the first satellite set can interact with the first terminal device to obtain the updated reference position. This allows the first terminal device to adjust the direction of its receiving beam based on the updated reference position, thereby facilitating the determination of the receiving beam direction and improving communication performance.

[0010] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, before determining the reference position of the updated first satellite set, the method further includes: triggering an update of the first satellite set. Determining the reference position of the updated first satellite set includes: determining the reference position of the updated first satellite set based on the position of each satellite in the updated first satellite set.

[0011] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the first satellite set before the update includes at least two satellites. Before triggering the update of the first satellite set, the method further includes: determining the distance between the actual position of each of the at least two satellites and its corresponding reference position. Triggering the update of the first satellite set includes: triggering the update of the first satellite set under the condition that preset conditions are met; the preset conditions include one or more of the following: the minimum distance among the at least two distances corresponding to the at least two satellites is greater than a first threshold; the sum of the at least two distances corresponding to the at least two satellites is greater than a second threshold; the average value of the at least two distances corresponding to the at least two satellites is greater than a third threshold; or, the weighted sum of the at least two distances corresponding to the at least two satellites is greater than a fourth threshold.

[0012] In conjunction with the first aspect, in certain implementations of the first aspect, the first satellite set before the update includes at least two satellites. Before triggering the update of the first satellite set, the method further includes: transmitting a fifth threshold; and acquiring a measurement result for each of the at least two satellites, the measurement result indicating whether the distance between each satellite and its corresponding reference position is greater than the fifth threshold. Triggering the update of the first satellite set includes: if the measurement result of each of at least one of the at least two satellites indicates that the distance between each satellite and its corresponding reference position is greater than the fifth threshold, triggering the update of the first satellite set, wherein the number of the at least one satellite is greater than or equal to a sixth threshold.

[0013] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the first message is a system message.

[0014] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the first message is a radio resource control (RRC) message, downlink control information (DCI), or media access control element (MAC CE).

[0015] Secondly, a communication method is provided, which can be applied to the terminal side, such as a terminal device or a communication module in a terminal device, or a circuit or chip in a terminal device that is responsible for communication functions (such as a modem chip, also known as a baseband chip, or a SoC chip or SIP chip containing a modem core). The following description uses the application of this method to a first terminal device as an example.

[0016] The method includes: receiving a first message, the first message including an updated reference position of a first satellite set, or including an offset of the updated reference position of the first satellite set relative to the reference position of the first satellite set before the update, the reference position being the reference position of a transmission beam of the first satellite set, the first satellite set including multiple satellites serving the same terminal device; and determining the direction of a reception beam based on the first message.

[0017] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the first message is a system message.

[0018] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the first message is an RRC message, a DCI message, or a MAC CE message.

[0019] It should be understood that the fourth aspect of this application corresponds to the technical solution of the second aspect of this application, and the beneficial effects achieved by each aspect and the corresponding feasible implementation are similar, so they will not be repeated here.

[0020] Thirdly, a communication apparatus is provided for executing the method in any possible implementation of any of the above aspects. Specifically, the apparatus includes a module for executing the method in any possible implementation of any of the above aspects.

[0021] In one design, the device may include modules that perform the methods / operations / steps / actions described in any of the above aspects. These modules may be hardware circuits, software, or a combination of hardware circuits and software.

[0022] In another design, the device is a communication chip, which may include input circuitry or interface for transmitting information or data, and output circuitry or interface for receiving information or data.

[0023] In another design, the device is a first satellite or a first terminal device, which may include a transmitter for transmitting information or data and a receiver for receiving information or data.

[0024] In another design, the device is used to perform any possible implementation of the above aspects, and the device may be configured in the first satellite or the first terminal device.

[0025] Fourthly, a communication device is provided, comprising at least one processor for calling and running a computer program from a memory, such that the device performs the method in any possible implementation of any of the preceding aspects.

[0026] Optionally, the device further includes a memory for storing instructions and data. The memory is coupled to the processor, which, when executing the instructions stored in the memory, can implement the methods described in the foregoing aspects.

[0027] Optionally, the device may also include a transmitter and a receiver, which may be separate or integrated together and referred to as a transceiver.

[0028] Fifthly, a computer program product is provided, the computer program product comprising: a computer program (also referred to as code or instructions), which, when run, causes a computer to perform a method in any possible implementation of any of the above aspects.

[0029] In a sixth aspect, a computer-readable storage medium is provided that stores a computer program (also referred to as code or instructions) that, when executed on a computer, causes the computer to perform the methods in any possible implementation of any of the above aspects.

[0030] In a seventh aspect, this application provides a chip or chip system including at least one processor for supporting the implementation of the functions involved in any possible implementation of any of the above aspects, such as receiving or processing data involved in the above methods.

[0031] In one possible design, the chip system also includes a memory for storing program instructions and data, which may be located within or outside the processor.

[0032] Optionally, the chip system may consist of chips or may include chips and other discrete components.

[0033] Eighthly, a communication system is provided, comprising a first satellite for implementing the method described in the first aspect and any possible implementation thereof, and a first terminal device for implementing the method described in the second aspect and any possible implementation thereof. Attached Figure Description

[0034] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a land communication system applicable to an embodiment of this application;

[0035] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of a satellite communication system applicable to an embodiment of this application;

[0036] Figure 3A is a schematic diagram of the satellite communication architecture in transparent transmission mode;

[0037] Figure 3B is a schematic diagram of the satellite communication architecture in regenerative mode;

[0038] Figures 4A and 4B are schematic diagrams of a communication system that integrates a terrestrial communication system and an NTN communication system, applicable to embodiments of this application.

[0039] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of an air-to-ground communication system applicable to an embodiment of this application;

[0040] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of an O-RAN architecture;

[0041] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of a possible application framework for O-RAN in a communication system;

[0042] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of the architecture of a satellite communication system;

[0043] Figure 9 is a schematic flowchart of a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0044] Figures 10A and 10B are schematic diagrams of the beam direction of the satellite array and terminal equipment provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0045] Figures 11 and 12 are schematic block diagrams of a communication device provided in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0046] The technical solutions in this application will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0047] Before introducing the communication method and related apparatus provided in the embodiments of this application, the following points should be made first.

[0048] First, in the embodiments shown below, the terms and English abbreviations, such as reference position, reference location, DCI, etc., are exemplary examples given for ease of description and should not constitute any limitation on this application. This application does not preclude the possibility of defining other terms that can achieve the same or similar functions in existing or future agreements.

[0049] Second, in the embodiments shown below, the terms "first," "second," and various numerical designations are merely for descriptive convenience to distinguish identical or similar items with essentially the same function and effect, and do not limit their order or the scope of the embodiments of this application. Those skilled in the art will understand that the terms "first," "second," etc., do not limit the quantity or execution order, and that "first," "second," etc., are not necessarily different.

[0050] Third, "at least one" means one or more, while "more than one" means two or more. "And / or" describes the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can mean: A alone, A and B simultaneously, or B alone, where A and B can be singular or plural. 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 plural items. For example, at least one of a, b, and c can mean: a, or b, or c, or a and b, or a and c, or b and c, or a, b, and c, where a, b, and c can be single or multiple.

[0051] Fourth, in this application, "instruction" can include direct and indirect instructions, explicit and implicit instructions, and instructions used for determination. The information indicated by a certain message is called the information to be instructed. In specific implementation, there are many ways to instruct the information to be instructed, such as, but not limited to, directly instructing the information to be instructed, such as the information to be instructed itself or its index. It can also indirectly instruct the information to be instructed by instructing other information, where there is a relationship between the other information and the information to be instructed; or it can only instruct a part of the information to be instructed, while the other parts are known or pre-agreed upon. For example, the instruction can be implemented by using a pre-agreed (e.g., protocol predefined) arrangement of various information, thereby reducing the instruction overhead to some extent. This application does not limit the specific method of instruction. It is understood that for the sender of the instruction information, the instruction information can be used to instruct the information to be instructed, and for the receiver of the instruction information, the instruction information can be used to determine the information to be instructed.

[0052] Fifth, in this application, "send" and "receive" indicate the direction of signal transmission. For example, "send a first message to a first terminal device" can be understood as the destination of the first message being the first terminal device, which may include direct transmission via the air interface or indirect transmission via the air interface by other units or modules. "Receive a first message from a first satellite" can be understood as the source of the first message being the first satellite, which may include direct reception from the first satellite via the air interface or indirect reception from the first satellite via the air interface by other units or modules. "Send" can also be understood as the "output" of the chip interface, and "receive" can also be understood as the "input" of the chip interface.

[0053] In other words, sending and receiving can occur between devices, such as between terminal devices and satellite devices; or they can occur within a device, such as between components, modules, chips, software modules, or hardware modules within a device via a bus, wiring, or interface.

[0054] Sixth, in this application, "when," "if," and "if" all refer to the device taking corresponding actions under certain objective circumstances, not to a time limit, nor to requiring the device to perform a judgment action, nor implying any other limitations. Unless otherwise specified, "if" and "if" are interchangeable, and "when" and "under the circumstances" are interchangeable. "When" and "if" / "if" are interchangeable.

[0055] Seventh, in this application, the words "exemplarily" or "for example" are used to indicate examples, illustrations, or explanations. Any embodiment or design described as "exemplarily" or "for example" in this application should not be construed as being more preferred or advantageous than other embodiments or designs. Specifically, the use of the words "exemplarily" or "for example" is intended to present the relevant concepts in a specific manner.

[0056] Eighth, in this application, the solutions in each embodiment can be used in a reasonable combination, and the explanations or descriptions of various terms, similar operations, or steps appearing in the embodiments can be referenced or explained to each other in the various embodiments, without limitation.

[0057] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a land communication system applicable to an embodiment of this application.

[0058] As shown in Figure 1, the communication system 100 includes a network device 11, a mobile device 12, and a drone 13. The network device 11 can transmit data or control signaling to a single terminal device (e.g., mobile terminal 12) or multiple terminal devices (e.g., mobile terminal 12 and drone 13).

[0059] It should be understood that Figure 1 is only a schematic diagram of a land communication system. The land communication system 100 may also include more or fewer devices than shown in Figure 1. For example, it may also include other network devices and / or terminal devices. This application embodiment does not limit this.

[0060] Optionally, the terrestrial communication system 100 also includes core network equipment. The mobile terminal 12 and the drone 13 can connect to the network equipment 11 wirelessly, and the network equipment 11 can connect to the core network equipment wirelessly or via wired connection.

[0061] When the network equipment or terminal equipment in the terrestrial communication system 100 moves rapidly, the data receiving end and the transmitting end will move relative to each other, which will result in Doppler shift and sampling point timing drift.

[0062] The technical solution of this application embodiment is applied to a communication system having the architecture shown in FIG1. Examples of communication systems include: Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM), Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA), Wideband Code Division Multiple Access (WCDMA), General Packet Radio Service (GPRS), Long Term Evolution (LTE), LTE Frequency Division Duplex (FDD), LTE Time Division Duplex (TDD), Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS), Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access (WiMAX), 5th Generation (5G) systems, or future communication systems, and Vehicle-to-X (V2X), where V2X can include Vehicle-to-Network (V2N), Vehicle-to-Vehicle (V2V), Vehicle-to-Infrastructure (V2I), and Vehicle-to-Pedestrian (V2P). Vehicle-to-everything (V2P) communication, long-term evolution technology for vehicle-to-everything (LTE-V), vehicle-to-everything (V2X), machine-type communication (MTC), Internet of Things (IoT), long-term evolution technology for machine-to-machine (LTE-M), machine-to-machine (M2M), and device-to-device (D2D) communication, etc.

[0063] The technical solutions of this application embodiment are also applicable to NTN communication systems. NTN devices in NTN communication systems are deployed in the air, such as satellites, high altitude platform stations (HAPS), drones, and other non-ground payloads. This application embodiment does not limit this. The following description takes a satellite communication system in an NTN communication system as an example.

[0064] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of a satellite communication system applicable to an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 2, the network equipment in the satellite communication system 200 includes satellites and gateway stations. Terminal equipment includes IoT terminals, but can also be terminals of other forms and performance, such as mobile terminals, high-altitude aircraft, etc., which are not limited here. The link between the satellite and the terminal equipment (or user terminal) is called a service link, and the link between the satellite and the gateway station is called a feeder link. The solution of this application can also be applied to multi-satellite communication scenarios that extend the communication scenario shown in Figure 2.

[0065] Satellites can be categorized into transparent and regenerative modes based on their operating modes. As shown in Figure 3A, in transparent mode, the satellite functions as a relay, while the ground station functions as a base station or partially as one. In this mode, the ground station can be considered a base station. Alternatively, the base station and ground station can be deployed separately. The power supply link delay includes both the delay from the satellite to the ground station and the delay from the ground station to the base station. As shown in Figure 3B, in regenerative mode, the satellite has data processing capabilities and functions as a base station or partially as one. In this mode, the satellite can be considered a base station. The ground station can also be referred to as an NTN gateway, gateway station, or signaling station.

[0066] It should be noted that the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application are also applicable to communication systems that integrate terrestrial communication systems and NTN communication systems, and such integrated communication systems can also be called NTN communication systems. The terrestrial communication system can be, for example, an LTE system, UMTS, a 5G communication system, or an NR system, or a communication system that is a next step in the development of 5G communication systems or a future communication system, etc., and is not limited here.

[0067] Figures 4A and 4B are schematic diagrams of a communication system integrating a terrestrial communication system and an NTN communication system applicable to embodiments of this application. As shown in Figure 4A, the NTN device operates in transparent mode, meaning the base station entity is deployed on the ground. As shown in Figure 4B, the NTN device operates in regenerative mode, meaning the base station entity is deployed on the NTN device.

[0068] In an NTN communication system, base stations can interconnect with base stations in a terrestrial communication system through a shared core network (CN). They can also achieve more timely assistance and interconnection through interfaces defined between base stations. In NR, the interface between base stations is called the Xn interface, and the interface between a base station and the core network is called the next-generation (NG) interface. In a converged network, NTN equipment and terrestrial equipment can interoperate and coordinate through these interfaces.

[0069] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of an air-to-ground (ATG) communication system applicable to an embodiment of this application. The network equipment shown in Figure 5 includes ground base stations, and user terminals include high-altitude aircraft, onboard handheld terminals, etc. In this scenario, there is high-speed relative motion between the data transmitter and receiver.

[0070] The terminal device in the embodiments of this application may refer to user equipment, access terminal, user unit, user station, mobile station, mobile station, remote station, remote terminal, mobile device, user terminal, wireless communication device, user agent, or user device. The terminals in the embodiments of this application can be mobile phones, tablets, computers with wireless transceiver capabilities, virtual reality (VR) terminals, augmented reality (AR) terminals, mixed reality (MR) terminals, extended reality (XR) terminals, holographic display terminals, wireless terminals in industrial control, wireless terminals in self-driving, wireless terminals in remote medical care, wireless terminals in smart grids, wireless terminals in transportation safety, wireless terminals in smart cities, wireless terminals in smart homes, cellular phones, cordless phones, session initiation protocol (SIP) phones, wireless local loop (WLL) stations, and personal digital assistants. PDA (Power Assistant), handheld devices with wireless communication capabilities, computing devices or other processing devices connected to a wireless modem, in-vehicle devices, wearable devices, terminals in 5G networks or terminals in future evolved networks, etc.

[0071] Wearable devices, also known as wearable smart devices, are a general term for devices that utilize wearable technology to intelligently design and develop everyday wearables, such as glasses, gloves, watches, clothing, and shoes. Wearable devices are portable devices worn directly on the body or integrated into the user's clothing or accessories. Wearable devices are not merely hardware devices; they achieve powerful functions through software support, data interaction, and cloud interaction. Broadly defined, wearable smart devices include those with comprehensive functions, large sizes, and the ability to perform complete or partial functions without relying on a smartphone, such as smartwatches or smart glasses. They also include devices focused on a specific application function that require the use of other devices, such as smart bracelets and smart jewelry for vital sign monitoring.

[0072] Furthermore, the terminal device can also be a terminal device in an Internet of Things (IoT) system. IoT is an important component of future information technology development, and its main technical characteristic is connecting objects to networks through communication technologies, thereby realizing an intelligent network that enables human-machine interconnection and machine-to-machine interconnection. This application does not limit the specific form of the terminal device.

[0073] It should be understood that in the embodiments of this application, the terminal device can be a means for implementing the functions of the terminal device, or a means for supporting the terminal device in implementing the functions, such as a chip system, which can be installed in the terminal. In the embodiments of this application, the chip system can be composed of chips, or it can include chips and other discrete devices.

[0074] The network device in this application embodiment is a device deployed in a radio access network (RAN) to provide wireless communication functions for terminal devices. The network device can include various forms of macro base stations, micro base stations (also called small stations), relay stations, access points, etc. In systems employing different radio access technologies, the name of the network device may differ, such as a base transceiver station (BTS) in a Global System for Mobile Communication (GSM) or Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) network, an NB (NodeB) in Wideband Code Division Multiple Access (WCDMA), or an eNB or eNodeB (Evolutionary NodeB) in LTE. The network device can also be a radio controller in a cloud radio access network (CRAN) scenario. The network device can also be an NTN device in an NTN communication system, such as a satellite, drone, high-altitude platform, or other non-ground payload. The network device can also be a base station device in a future 5G network or a network device in a future evolved public land mobile network (PLMN). Network devices can also be wearable devices or in-vehicle devices. Network devices can also be transmission and reception points (TRPs).

[0075] It should be understood that in the embodiments of this application, the network device can be a means for implementing the functions of the network device, or a means that enables the network device to implement the functions, such as a chip system, which can be installed in the network device.

[0076] It should also be understood that the network devices and terminal devices in the embodiments of this application can be deployed on land, including indoors or outdoors, handheld or vehicle-mounted; or on water; or on aircraft, balloons, and satellites in the air. The embodiments of this application do not limit the application scenarios of the network devices and terminal devices.

[0077] The RAN in this application can be an open RAN (or O-RAN). In an O-RAN, multiple network devices cooperate to assist terminal devices in achieving wireless access, with different network devices implementing some functions of the base station. For example, network devices can be central units (CU), distributed units (DU), CU-control plane (CP), CU-user plane (UP), or radio units (RU), etc. CU and DU can be set up separately or included in the same network element, such as in a baseband unit (BBU). RU can be included in radio equipment or radio units, such as in a remote radio unit (RRU), an active antenna unit (AAU), or a remote radio head (RRH).

[0078] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of an O-RAN architecture. An O-RAN system may include more or fewer components beyond those shown in Figure 6; this application does not limit this. As shown in Figure 6, the O-RAN includes a BBU, and optionally, an RU. The BBU communicates with the CN via a backhaul link, and with the RU via a fronthaul link. The RU communicates with the terminal via an air interface. The BBU and RU may or may not be co-located.

[0079] The BBU includes at least one CU and at least one DU, wherein the at least one CU and the at least one DU communicate via at least one midhaul link.

[0080] In an O-RAN system, some protocol layer functions are centrally controlled by the CU, while the remaining or all protocol layer functions are distributed in the DU, which is centrally controlled by the CU.

[0081] In this application, the indication of the reference position from the first satellite to the terminal device can also be achieved by a CU or DU. For example, a CU and / or DU are deployed on the first satellite, and the CU or DU indicates the reference position to the terminal device.

[0082] Figure 7 illustrates a possible application framework for O-RAN in a communication system. O-RAN proposes a RAN architecture based on open standards and interfaces, decomposing the RAN into three main functional layers: CU, DU, and RU. These functional layers can be connected through open interfaces, enabling interoperability between equipment from different vendors. O-RAN also introduces virtualization technology, decoupling RAN functions from dedicated hardware and deploying them on open hardware and cloud platforms, achieving software-based and flexible RAN implementation. Furthermore, O-RAN utilizes artificial intelligence (AI) technology to integrate the RAN intelligent controller (RIC) into the RAN. As shown in Figure 7, the communication system includes an RIC, which can be an AI module used to implement AI-related functions. The RIC includes near-real-time RIC (near-RT RIC) and non-real-time RIC (non-RT RIC). The non-real-time RIC primarily handles non-real-time information, such as data that is not sensitive to latency, with latency in the order of seconds. Near real-time RICs primarily process near real-time information, such as latency-sensitive data with latency on the order of tens of milliseconds. They enable real-time monitoring, optimization, and management of the RAN.

[0083] The main difference between O-RAN and traditional RAN lies in the fact that O-RAN divides wireless system equipment into standard subsystem components that are developed independently in layers. It achieves layer decoupling and interoperability between different vendors by opening internal interfaces. It includes different components such as O-Cloud, RU, DU, CU-CP, CU-UP, and RIC, and ensures compatibility and consistency between Open RAN components provided by different vendors by establishing a unified testing and certification mechanism.

[0084] The O-RAN standard is a supplement and enhancement to the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) standard. For example, based on the E1, F1, NG, Xn, and X2 interfaces defined by 3GPP, O-RAN further opens up the standard by defining interfaces such as O1, O2, E2, A1, and Open-FH.

[0085] The relevant technologies and concepts involved in this application are introduced below.

[0086] 1. Satellite communication system

[0087] Currently, 5G NR has moved from the standardization stage to the commercial deployment stage. The NR standard is designed specifically for the characteristics of terrestrial communication, providing terminal devices with high-speed, high-reliability, and low-latency communication. Compared to terrestrial communication systems, NTN communication features large coverage areas and flexible networking. Currently, multiple standards organizations are involved in researching NTN communication technologies and standards, striving to build a unified communication network integrating air, space, and ground communication.

[0088] To support broader service coverage, network equipment may need to provide network services over larger communication areas. Taking the NTN communication system as an example, each satellite / high-altitude platform / base station can typically cover a large area. Given a link budget and system resources, satellites improve overall satellite coverage by increasing the coverage area of ​​a single beam through beam design. However, since the coverage range of a single beam is limited, a single satellite still requires a large number of beams to achieve wider coverage.

[0089] In this context, a beam is the main lobe of a signal's directional pattern. The coverage area of ​​a beam refers to the area projected onto the ground. Network devices can adjust the antenna weights to direct the beam in different directions, resulting in different coverage areas. The beam coverage area discussed in this application refers to the beam's coverage area on the ground. As satellite base stations move and weights are adjusted, the beam coverage area will also change.

[0090] NTN communication involves networking using equipment such as drones, high-altitude platforms, and satellites to provide data transmission and voice communication services to terminal devices. High-altitude platforms are typically located at an altitude of 8–50 km above the ground.

[0091] Based on the satellite's orbital altitude, satellite communication systems can be divided into three types: geostationary earth orbit (GEO) satellite communication systems (also known as synchronous orbit satellite systems), medium earth orbit (MEO) satellite communication systems, and low earth orbit (LEO) satellite communication systems.

[0092] GEO satellites, also known as geostationary orbit satellites, can orbit at an altitude of 35,786 kilometers (km). Their main advantages are that they are stationary relative to the ground and can provide a large coverage area. However, GEO satellites also have relatively prominent disadvantages: such as the large distance from Earth requiring a large-diameter antenna; relatively large transmission delays, around 0.5 seconds, which cannot meet the needs of real-time services; and relatively scarce orbital resources, high launch costs, and inability to provide coverage to polar regions.

[0093] MEO satellites orbit at altitudes between 2,000 and 35,786 km, achieving global coverage with a relatively small number of satellites. However, their transmission latency is higher than that of LEO satellites, and they are primarily used for positioning and navigation.

[0094] LEO satellites orbit at altitudes ranging from 300 to 2000 km. Compared to MEO and GEO satellites, LEO satellites have lower orbital altitudes, resulting in shorter data propagation delays, lower power consumption, and relatively lower launch costs. Therefore, LEO satellite communication networks have received widespread attention in recent years.

[0095] It is generally believed that NTN communication has different channel characteristics compared to terrestrial communication, such as large transmission delay and Doppler frequency offset. For example, the round-trip time of GEO satellite communication is 238–270 ms, while the round-trip time of LEO satellite communication is 8 ms–20 ms.

[0096] Limited by manufacturing and launch costs, onboard data processing capabilities and transmission power are also constrained. Currently, satellite communication networks cannot provide terminal devices with communication rates comparable to terrestrial communication networks. To overcome this limitation and improve the overall signal processing capabilities and communication throughput of satellite networks, satellite operators are preparing to launch giant low-Earth orbit constellations, compensating for the limitations of individual satellite communication capabilities by increasing the number of satellites. In future NTN communication systems, after a terminal device connects to the system, multiple satellites can collaboratively provide communication services to the same terminal device, providing the foundation for multi-satellite collaborative transmission.

[0097] Refer to Figure 8 for a schematic diagram of the satellite communication system architecture. Figure 8 uses the next-generation radio access network (NG-RAN) as an example to illustrate the communication architecture between terminal equipment (UE) in the figure, NG-RAN, core network, and data network (DN) in satellite communication.

[0098] Satellites can provide wireless access services to terminal devices, scheduling wireless resources for these devices accessing the network via the satellite. Communication between the satellite and the terminal devices occurs over an air interface (which can be of various types, such as a 5G air interface). Specifically, communication between the satellite and the NTN gateway can be via the NG interface, allowing the satellite to interact with the core network through the NTN gateway, handling non-access stratum (NAS) signaling and user service data. In multi-satellite collaboration scenarios, satellites can establish inter-satellite links (ISL) for communication.

[0099] Key features of future satellite communication systems include large-scale constellations and high-gain antennas. Future ground-based terminal devices will be able to simultaneously view multiple satellites; for example, in mid- to high-latitude regions, a terminal device can simultaneously receive coverage signals from nearly 20 satellites. Future satellites can have high-gain antennas; for instance, a single satellite can mount a 64-square-meter antenna array, providing a carrier-to-noise ratio (CNR) of up to 20 dB due to the high antenna gain on the satellite side.

[0100] Large-scale constellations and high-gain antennas provide the prerequisites for multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) systems. MIMO can significantly improve the transmission rate of terminal devices. This improvement includes two aspects: first, improved spectral efficiency. Under the same power, same number of antennas, and high signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) range, the distributed deployment of multiple antennas across multiple satellites achieves higher spectral efficiency than the centralized deployment of multiple antennas on a single satellite. Second, improved throughput. Compared to a single satellite, the coordinated transmission of multiple satellites of the same specifications can greatly improve throughput. Studies have shown that without considering interference, throughput can increase linearly. However, considering interference, throughput initially increases, but after reaching a certain point, it begins to decrease due to interference.

[0101] Currently, direct connection between terminal devices in NTN communication systems primarily utilizes single-satellite technology. In other words, the terminal device is directly connected to a single satellite. In this scenario, the downlink budget is relatively poor, and currently, only short messages and other services can be transmitted. One possible solution is to improve the downlink budget by reducing the frequency band, for example, by switching the frequency from the Ka-band to the L-band or S-band. Alternatively, the downlink budget can be improved by increasing the payload capacity, for example, by enlarging the satellite-side antenna array to increase beam gain.

[0102] 2. Coordinated multi-point (CoMP) transmission technology

[0103] Ground-based CoMP transmission technology refers to multiple geographically separated transmission points cooperating to transmit data for a single terminal device, or jointly receiving data sent by a terminal device. These cooperating transmission points typically refer to base stations in different cells. For example, different base stations cooperate to handle interference, avoid interference, or convert interference into useful signals to jointly transmit data for the terminal device, thereby improving the transmission rate. CoMP transmission technology can be seen as an application of MIMO technology in a multi-cell environment, utilizing differences in spatial channels for signal transmission. Multiple base stations cooperating to serve the same terminal device can be considered a set of base stations or a cluster of base stations.

[0104] In terrestrial CoMP, the location of terrestrial base stations is typically fixed. Changes between terminal equipment and its associated base station cluster are primarily caused by the movement of the terminal equipment. The network side can determine base station cluster updates based on signal quality measurements. For example, the terminal equipment measures the received signal quality of each base station in the cluster and reports the measurement results to the master base station in the cluster, which then decides whether to update the base station cluster. However, the base station cluster update method in terrestrial CoMP is not suitable for NTN communication systems where base stations move at high speeds.

[0105] Applying the design principles of terrestrial CoMP transmission technology to NTN communication systems may present some challenges. For instance, in terrestrial CoMP, since ground base stations are typically stationary, the multiple base stations (forming a set or cluster) that collaboratively serve the terminal devices are in a static environment for extended periods. However, in NTN communication systems, satellites move at high speeds (5-10 km / s), creating a highly dynamic environment.

[0106] In multi-satellite coherent transmission scenarios, the multiple satellites that coordinate to serve the terminal device change frequently, or in other words, the satellite cluster associated with the terminal device changes frequently. This may cause the terminal device's receiving beam to be unable to align with the satellite cluster's transmitting beam, which in turn affects communication performance.

[0107] In view of this, embodiments of this application provide a communication method that can be applied to multi-satellite coherent transmission scenarios. In this method, the first satellite indicates the updated reference position to the terminal device. In this way, the terminal device can determine the direction of the receiving beam based on the updated reference position, thereby ensuring link quality and improving communication performance.

[0108] Multi-satellite coherent transmission refers to multiple satellites transmitting the same signal to the same terminal device. The network side needs to obtain the channel state information (CSI) of all cooperating satellites and adjust the phase of each transmitted signal according to these CSIs to ensure the coherence of the transmitted signal. In this way, the terminal device can perform coherent reception and align the phase of each transmitted signal.

[0109] Figure 9 is a schematic flowchart of a communication method 900 provided in an embodiment of this application. The steps of method 900 can be interactively executed by the terminal side and the network side. The terminal side includes, for example, a terminal device or a communication module within a terminal device, or a circuit or chip (such as a modem chip, or a SoC chip or SIP chip containing a modem core) responsible for communication functions within the terminal device; the following description uses a terminal device as an example. The network side includes, for example, a satellite or a communication module within a satellite, or a circuit or chip (such as a modem chip, or a SoC chip or SIP chip containing a modem core) responsible for communication functions within a satellite; the following description uses a satellite as an example.

[0110] Method 900 includes steps S901 to S903, and optionally, method 900 also includes steps S904 to S907. The steps are described in detail below.

[0111] S901, the first satellite determines the reference position of the updated first satellite set. This reference position is the reference position of the transmission beam of the first satellite set. The first satellite set includes multiple satellites, which serve the same terminal device. The following description uses a single terminal device as an example, referred to as the first terminal device.

[0112] The first satellite set is the set of satellites that serve the first terminal device; in other words, the set of satellites that serve the first terminal device is called the first satellite set. The first satellite set can also be called the first satellite cluster or the first satellite group.

[0113] It should be noted that as the satellites move, the satellites in the first satellite set serving the first terminal device may change.

[0114] For example, at time T1, the first set of satellites includes satellite 1, satellite 2, satellite 3, and satellite 4, and at time T2, the first set of satellites includes satellite 1 and satellite 2.

[0115] For example, at time T1, the first set of satellites includes satellite 1, satellite 2, satellite 3 and satellite 4, and at time T2, the first set of satellites includes satellite 1, satellite 2, satellite 4 and satellite 5.

[0116] The multiple satellites serve the first terminal device, or in other words, the multiple satellites provide communication services to the first terminal device. Specifically, the multiple satellites perform coherent transmission, transmitting the same signal to the first terminal device, which uses coherent reception technology to receive multiple identical signals, thereby aligning the phases of the multiple signals.

[0117] It should be noted that the first satellite set includes various types of satellites, such as leader satellites and follower satellites. There can be one or more leader satellites. The first terminal device connects to one of these leader satellites (referred to as the accessed leader satellite) and establishes an RRC connection with it. The unaccessed leader satellites serve as backup leader satellites, which the first terminal device can connect to when necessary. For example, if the signal quality of the accessed leader satellite is poor, or if the accessed leader satellite instructs the first terminal device to connect to another backup leader satellite, the first terminal device can connect to a backup leader satellite. The accessed leader satellite can transmit control signaling and user plane data to the first terminal device.

[0118] The number of follower satellites can be one or more. After the follower satellites and the first terminal equipment have completed uplink and downlink synchronization, the access leader satellite can schedule the follower satellites to transmit user plane data to the first terminal equipment.

[0119] It should be understood that the interaction between the satellite and the first terminal device can be regarded as an interaction at the physical layer, which does not involve high-level collaboration, or in other words, does not involve the interaction of control signaling.

[0120] It should also be understood that a backup leader satellite can also be a follower satellite.

[0121] In the embodiments of this application, the leader satellite can also be replaced by a dominant satellite or a primary satellite, and the follower satellite can also be replaced by a follower satellite or a secondary satellite. This application does not preclude the possibility of defining other terms that can achieve the same or similar functions as the leader satellite or follower satellite in existing or future agreements.

[0122] It should be noted that the first satellite in this application is the leader satellite accessed by the first terminal device, and the other satellites in the first satellite set are follower satellites.

[0123] The reference positions of the first satellite ensemble are described below.

[0124] As described above, the satellite types in the first satellite set include leader satellites and follower satellites. In another possible design, the satellite types in the first satellite set also include reference satellites. A reference satellite can be an actual satellite or a virtual satellite. If the reference satellite is an actual satellite, it may be a leader satellite or a follower satellite.

[0125] A reference satellite can be considered as the equivalent antenna aperture formed by multiple satellites in the first satellite ensemble. In other words, the beam formed by the multiple satellites in the first satellite ensemble can be equivalently transmitted by the reference satellite. The location of this reference satellite can be called a reference position; for example, this reference position is the center position of the multiple satellites in the first satellite ensemble. That is, this reference position is the reference position for the transmission beam of the first satellite ensemble; in other words, the beam formed by the multiple satellites in the first satellite ensemble can be equivalently transmitted from this reference position.

[0126] It should be understood that due to the high speed of satellite movement, the distance between the actual position of each satellite in the first satellite set and its corresponding reference position may change. Therefore, the first satellite set needs to be updated.

[0127] It should be understood that the reference position is a virtual satellite position, or a pre-set satellite position. In actual deployment, satellites should be deployed as close to the reference position as possible.

[0128] The aforementioned reference location can also be called a virtual location, a preset location, a reference satellite point, or a reference point.

[0129] To better suppress grating lobes and avoid energy waste and interference to non-serving users, reference positions can be generated according to a specific satellite arrangement. For example, the reference positions can be sparsely distributed, and the distribution of the reference positions can follow a Fermat distribution, a Fibonacci distribution, a variant of the Fermat distribution, or other distribution methods that can better suppress grating lobes. This application does not limit this to any particular distribution.

[0130] The update of the first satellite set may include the following scenarios:

[0131] Scenario 1: The follower satellite updates, but the leader and reference satellites do not. In this scenario, the first terminal device does not need to detect updates.

[0132] Scenario 2: The leader satellite is updated, but the reference position is not. In this scenario, since the first terminal device is connected to the leader satellite, the terminal device needs to perform a handover operation.

[0133] Scenario 3: Reference satellite updated, but leader satellite not updated. In this scenario, because the reference satellite is updated, the reference position (or reference direction) of the transmitting beam changes, or the beam direction aligned by the first terminal device changes. Therefore, it is necessary to indicate the updated reference position of the first satellite set to the first terminal device.

[0134] Regarding scenario three above, when the first satellite set is updated, the beam pointing of the first satellite set may change. Referring to the schematic diagrams of the beam pointing of the satellite set and the terminal device shown in Figures 10A and 10B, it can be seen that due to the high-speed movement of the satellites, the first satellite set serving the first terminal device is updated at times T1 and T2, the reference satellite changes, or the reference position changes, the beam pointing of the first satellite set also changes, and correspondingly, the beam pointing of the terminal device also changes.

[0135] It should be understood that the number of satellites included in the first satellite set before the update may be the same as the number of satellites included in the first satellite set after the update, but the positions of the included satellites have changed.

[0136] For example, the first satellite set before the update included satellite 1, satellite 2, and satellite 3, while the first satellite set after the update includes satellite 1, satellite 2, and satellite 4. The number of satellites included in the first satellite set has not changed, but the positions of satellite 3 and satellite 4 may be different, which may lead to a change in the reference position of the first satellite set.

[0137] S902, the first satellite sends a first message to the first terminal device. The first message includes the updated reference position of the first satellite set, or the offset of the updated reference position of the first satellite set relative to the reference position of the first satellite set before the update. Accordingly, the first terminal device receives the first message.

[0138] As described above, updating the reference satellite will lead to updating the reference position, which means that the direction of the transmission beam of the first satellite set will change. Therefore, the first satellite needs to indicate the updated reference position of the first satellite set to the first terminal device. Then, the first terminal device can adjust the beam direction according to the updated reference position of the first satellite set.

[0139] It should be understood that for downlink transmission, the terminal device adjusts the direction of the receiving beam, and for uplink transmission, the terminal device adjusts the direction of the transmitting beam.

[0140] In one possible implementation, the first satellite can directly indicate the updated reference position, for example, by carrying the updated reference position of the first satellite set in the first message. This method of indication is simpler and more direct.

[0141] In another possible implementation, the first satellite can indirectly indicate the updated reference position. For example, the first message can carry the offset of the updated reference position of the first satellite set relative to the original reference position of the first satellite set. In this way, the first terminal device can determine the updated reference position of the first satellite set based on the known original reference position of the first satellite set and the offset. This indication method helps reduce signaling overhead.

[0142] Optionally, the first satellite sends a first message to the first terminal device, including: the first satellite broadcasting the first message. The first message is a system message, such as a system information block (SIB) message or a master information block (MIB) message.

[0143] Optionally, the first satellite sends a first message to the first terminal device, including: the first satellite sending the first message to the first terminal device via unicast. For example, the first message is an RRC message, or a DCI message, or a MAC CE message.

[0144] S903, the first terminal device determines the direction of the receiving beam based on the first message.

[0145] After receiving the first message, the first terminal device determines the updated reference position of the first satellite array, and then determines the position of the receiving beam based on the updated reference position of the first satellite array. Specifically, the first terminal device adjusts the direction of the receiving beam to align with the updated reference position of the first satellite array.

[0146] Based on the technical solution of this application, in a multi-satellite coherent transmission scenario, multiple satellites cooperate to provide communication services to the first terminal device, which is beneficial to improving link quality. If the reference position of the transmitting beam of the first satellite set providing communication services to the first terminal device is updated, the first satellite (i.e., the leader satellite) in the first satellite set can interact with the first terminal device to obtain the updated reference position of the first satellite set. In this way, the first terminal device can adjust the direction of the receiving beam according to the updated reference position of the first satellite set, which is beneficial to determining the direction of the receiving beam and improving communication performance.

[0147] To improve the update efficiency of satellite ensembles, this application provides a satellite ensemble update method. This method involves a leader satellite determining whether to trigger a satellite ensemble update based on the satellite's reference position. Compared to ground-based collaborative multipoint transmission technology, this method has higher update efficiency.

[0148] In one possible implementation, a leader satellite in a satellite ensemble acquires the actual position of each satellite in the ensemble and calculates the distance between each satellite's actual position and its corresponding reference position. Thus, multiple satellites correspond to multiple distances. The leader satellite triggers an update of the satellite ensemble when preset conditions are met. It should be understood that the leader satellite in a satellite ensemble is aware of the reference positions of all satellites in the ensemble.

[0149] The preset conditions may include one or more of the following:

[0150] Condition 1: The minimum distance among the multiple distances corresponding to the multiple satellites is greater than the first threshold; Condition 2: The sum of the multiple distances corresponding to the multiple satellites is greater than the second threshold; Condition 3: The average value of the multiple distances corresponding to the multiple satellites is greater than the third threshold; Condition 4: The weighted sum of the multiple distances corresponding to the multiple satellites is greater than the fourth threshold.

[0151] The following example illustrates the above conditions based on assumption 1. Assumption 1 is as follows: Before the update, a satellite set includes satellite 1, satellite 2, and satellite 3. Satellite 1 is the leader satellite. The distance between satellite 1 and its corresponding reference position is d1, the distance between satellite 2 and its corresponding reference point is d2, and the distance between satellite 3 and its corresponding reference position is d3. The first threshold is d_thresh1, the second threshold is d_thresh2, the third threshold is d_thresh3, and the fourth threshold is d_thresh4.

[0152] Example of condition one: If d1 < d2 < d3, and d3 > d_thresh1, then the leader satellite triggers an update of the satellite set; if d1 < d2 < d3, and d3 < d_thresh1, then the leader satellite determines not to trigger an update of the satellite set. It should be understood that d3 = d_thresh1 can be categorized as a condition for triggering an update of the satellite set, or as a condition for not triggering an update of the satellite set; this application does not limit this.

[0153] Example of condition two: If (d1+d2+d3)>d_thresh2, then the leader satellite triggers an update of the satellite set; if (d1+d2+d3)<d_thresh2, then the leader satellite determines not to trigger an update of the satellite set. It should be understood that (d1+d2+d3)=d_thresh2 can be categorized as either a condition for triggering an update of the satellite set or a condition for not triggering an update of the satellite set; this application's embodiments do not limit this.

[0154] Example of condition three: If (d1+d2+d3) / 3 > d_thresh3, then the leader satellite triggers an update of the satellite set; if (d1+d2+d3) / 3 < d_thresh3, then the leader satellite determines not to trigger an update of the satellite set. It should be understood that (d1+d2+d3) / 3 = d_thresh3 can be categorized as either a condition for triggering an update of the satellite set or a condition for not triggering an update of the satellite set; this application does not limit this.

[0155] Example of condition four: If (a1×d1+a2×d2+a3×d3)>d_thresh4, then the leader satellite triggers an update of the satellite set; if (a1×d1+a2×d2+a3×d3)<d_thresh4, then the leader satellite determines not to trigger an update of the satellite set. It should be understood that (a1×d1+a2×d2+a3×d3)=d_thresh4 can be categorized as either a condition for triggering an update of the satellite set or a condition for not triggering an update of the satellite set; this application does not limit this.

[0156] In another possible implementation, a leader satellite in a satellite ensemble sends a fifth threshold to the other satellites in the ensemble (including follower satellites and / or backup leader satellites). Each of these other satellites determines the distance between its actual position and its corresponding reference position and compares that distance to the fifth threshold. Each of these other satellites reports a measurement result to the leader satellite, indicating whether the distance between its actual position and its corresponding reference position is greater than the fifth threshold. After receiving the measurement results from the other satellites, if any one of the other satellites' measurement results indicates that the distance between its actual position and its corresponding reference position is greater than the fifth threshold, the leader satellite triggers an update to the satellite ensemble; or, if at least one of the other satellites' measurement results indicates that the distance between its actual position and its corresponding reference position is greater than the fifth threshold, the leader satellite triggers an update to the satellite ensemble.

[0157] Optionally, the measurement result has a length of 1 bit. For example, a bit state of "1" indicates that the distance is greater than the fifth threshold, and a bit state of "0" indicates that the distance is less than the fifth threshold. Alternatively, a bit state of "0" indicates that the distance is greater than the fifth threshold, and a bit state of "1" indicates that the distance is less than the fifth threshold. It should be understood that when the distance is equal to the fifth threshold, the bit state can be set to "1" or "0", and this application embodiment does not limit this.

[0158] The following example illustrates the conditions for determining whether to trigger an update of the satellite set based on assumption 2. Assumption 2 is as follows: a satellite set before the update includes satellite 1, satellite 2 and satellite 3, where satellite 1 is the leader satellite, the distance between satellite 1 and its corresponding reference position is d1, the distance between satellite 2 and its corresponding reference point is d2, the distance between satellite 3 and its corresponding reference position is d3, and the fifth threshold is d_thresh5.

[0159] For example, if d1 < d_thresh5, d1 > d_thresh5, and d1 < d_thresh5, then Satellite 1 is the leader satellite and does not need to report measurement results. The bit status of the measurement results reported by Satellite 2 to the leader satellite is "1", indicating that the distance between Satellite 2's actual position and its corresponding reference position is greater than the fifth threshold. The bit status of the measurement results reported by Satellite 3 to the leader satellite is "0", indicating that the distance between Satellite 3's actual position and its corresponding reference position is less than the fifth threshold. After receiving the measurement results from Satellite 2 and Satellite 3, the leader satellite (Satellite 1) triggers an update of its satellite set because the distance between Satellite 2's actual position and its corresponding reference position is greater than the fifth threshold.

[0160] In another possible implementation, other satellites in a satellite ensemble (including follower satellites and / or backup leader satellites) independently calculate the distance between their actual positions and corresponding reference positions, and send the calculated distances to the leader satellite. The leader satellite, after receiving the distances calculated by each of the other satellites, then uses a threshold to determine whether to trigger an update of the satellite ensemble. The specific implementation of the ensemble threshold for determining whether to trigger an update of the satellite ensemble can be found in the description above, and will not be repeated here.

[0161] It should be understood that the above-mentioned method for updating the satellite set can be applied to the above-mentioned method 900, which will be described in detail below.

[0162] Optionally, method 900 further includes S904: the first satellite triggers an update of the first satellite set. S904 can be executed before S902.

[0163] After triggering the update of the first satellite set, the first satellite updates the first satellite set. Optionally, S901 above includes: the first satellite determining the reference position of the updated first satellite set based on the ephemeris information of each satellite in the updated first satellite set.

[0164] For example, the center positions of multiple satellites in the updated first satellite set are determined as the reference positions for the updated first satellite set. The ephemeris information for each satellite includes its actual position.

[0165] For example, the median of the coordinates of multiple satellites in the updated first satellite set can be used as the reference position for the updated first satellite set.

[0166] For example, the average of the coordinates of multiple satellites in the updated first satellite set can be used as the reference position for the updated first satellite set.

[0167] In one possible implementation, method 900 further includes S905: the first satellite determines the distance between each of at least two satellites and its corresponding reference position. Here, the at least two satellites are those included in the first satellite set before the update.

[0168] Optionally, the first satellite may be one that acquires the actual position of each of at least two satellites in a first satellite set, and then determines the distance between each of the at least two satellites and its corresponding reference position.

[0169] For example, the first satellite set includes satellite 1, satellite 2, and satellite 3, where satellite 1 is the leader satellite, satellite 2 transmits its actual position p1 to satellite 1, and satellite 3 transmits its actual position p3 to satellite 2. Then, satellite 1 determines the distance d1 between its actual position p1 and its reference position, satellite 1 determines the distance d2 between its actual position p2 and its reference position, and satellite 1 determines the distance d3 between its actual position p3 and its reference position. Satellite 1 can then determine whether to trigger an update of the first satellite set based on a threshold; the specific determination method can be found in the description above and will not be repeated here.

[0170] Optionally, the first satellite may receive distances calculated from other satellites in the first satellite set besides itself, and then the first satellite determines the distance between each of the at least two satellites and its corresponding reference position.

[0171] For example, the first satellite set includes satellite 1, satellite 2, and satellite 3. Satellite 1 is the leader satellite. Satellite 1 can determine the distance d1 between its actual position and its corresponding reference position. Satellite 2 can determine the distance d2 between its actual position and its reference position and transmit the distance d2 to satellite 1. Satellite 3 can determine the distance d3 between its actual position and its reference position and transmit the distance d3 to satellite 1. In this way, satellite 1 can determine the distance d1 between itself and its corresponding reference position, the distance d2 between itself and its corresponding reference position, and the distance d3 between itself and its corresponding reference position. Furthermore, satellite 1 can determine whether to trigger an update of the first satellite set based on a threshold. The specific determination method can be found in the description above and will not be repeated here.

[0172] After determining the distance between each of the at least two satellites and its corresponding reference position, the first satellite can determine whether a preset condition is met. Optionally, in conjunction with S905, S904 may include: if the preset condition is met, the first satellite triggers an update of the first satellite set. The preset condition includes one or more of the following: the minimum distance among the at least two distances corresponding to the at least two satellites is greater than a first threshold; the sum of the at least two distances corresponding to the at least two satellites is greater than a second threshold; or, the average value of the at least two distances corresponding to the at least two satellites is greater than a third threshold; or, the weighted sum of the at least two distances corresponding to the at least two satellites is greater than a fourth threshold.

[0173] In another possible implementation, method 900 further includes S906: the first satellite transmits a fifth threshold to the other satellites, and the other satellites receive the fifth threshold accordingly. It should be understood that the other satellites include satellites other than the first satellite in the first satellite set to which the first satellite belongs. After receiving the fifth threshold, each of the other satellites determines the distance between its actual position and the corresponding reference position, compares that distance with the fifth threshold, and then reports the measurement result to the first satellite. The measurement result can also be referred to as the comparison result.

[0174] Optionally, method 900 further includes S907: the first satellite acquires a measurement result for each of the at least two satellites, the measurement result indicating whether the distance between each satellite and its corresponding reference position is greater than a fifth threshold. S907 can be performed after S906.

[0175] The first satellite acquiring the measurement results of each of the at least two satellites may include: the first satellite receiving the measurement results of other satellites in the first set besides itself, and acquiring its own measurement results.

[0176] It should be noted that the at least two satellites are those included in the first satellite set before the update, or in other words, the first satellite set before the update includes the at least two satellites.

[0177] Optionally, in conjunction with S907, S904 may include: if the measurement result of each of at least one of the at least two satellites indicates that the distance between the actual position of each satellite and its corresponding reference position is greater than a fifth threshold, then the first satellite triggers an update of the first satellite set. That is, if the distance between at least one of the at least two satellites is greater than the fifth threshold, then the first satellite triggers an update of the first satellite set. The number of at least one satellite is greater than or equal to a sixth threshold. For example, a sixth threshold of 1 indicates that the distance between the actual position of any one of the at least two satellites and its corresponding reference position is greater than the fifth threshold, thus triggering an update of the first satellite set. Or, for example, a sixth threshold of 2 indicates that the distance between the actual positions of two of the at least two satellites and their corresponding reference positions is greater than the fifth threshold, thus triggering an update of the first satellite set.

[0178] For example, the first satellite set includes Satellite 1, Satellite 2, and Satellite 3, where Satellite 1 is the leader satellite. Satellite 1 calculates the distance d1 between its actual position and its reference position; Satellite 2 calculates the distance d2 between its actual position and its reference position, compares d2 with a fifth threshold, and reports the measurement result to Satellite 1, indicating whether d2 is greater than the fifth threshold; Satellite 3 calculates the distance d3 between its actual position and its reference position, compares d3 with the fifth threshold, and reports the measurement result to Satellite 2, indicating whether d3 is greater than the fifth threshold. If at least one of d1, d2, or d3 is greater than the fifth threshold, Satellite 1 triggers an update of the first satellite set.

[0179] For a more detailed introduction to S905 to S907, please refer to the description of the update method for the trigger satellite set above, which will not be repeated here.

[0180] It is understood that the various numerical designations used in the embodiments of this application are merely for descriptive convenience and are not intended to limit the scope of the embodiments of this application. The order of the process numbers does not imply the order of execution; the execution order of each process should be determined by its function and internal logic.

[0181] It is understood that, in order to achieve the functions in the above embodiments, the access network device and terminal include hardware structures and / or software modules corresponding to perform each function. Those skilled in the art should readily recognize that, based on the units and method steps of the various examples described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed in this application, this application can be implemented in hardware or a combination of hardware and computer software. Whether a function is executed by hardware or by computer software driving hardware depends on the specific application scenario and design constraints of the technical solution.

[0182] The communication method according to an embodiment of the present application has been described in detail above with reference to FIG9. The communication device according to an embodiment of the present application will be described in detail below with reference to FIG11 and FIG12.

[0183] Figures 11 and 12 are schematic block diagrams of communication devices provided in embodiments of this application. These communication devices can be used to implement the functions of the first terminal device or the first satellite in the above method embodiments, and thus can also achieve the beneficial effects of the above method embodiments.

[0184] As shown in Figure 11, the communication device 1100 includes a processing module 1110 and a transceiver module 1120. The processing module 1110 is used for data processing. The transceiver module 1120 can also be referred to as a communication interface or a communication module.

[0185] The device 1100 can be used to perform the actions performed by the first satellite or the first terminal device in the above method embodiments. Alternatively, the device 1100 can be a component (e.g., a chip) configured in the first satellite or the first terminal device. The processing module 1110 is used to perform processing-related operations of the first satellite or the first terminal device in the above method embodiments. The transceiver module 1120 is used to perform receiving and transmitting-related operations of the first satellite or the first terminal device in the above method embodiments.

[0186] Optionally, the transceiver module 1120 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.

[0187] It should be noted that device 1100 may include a transmitting module but not a receiving module. Alternatively, device 1100 may include a receiving module but not a transmitting module. Specifically, it depends on whether the above-described scheme executed by device 1100 includes both transmitting and receiving actions.

[0188] Optionally, the device 1100 is used to perform the actions performed by the first satellite or the first terminal device in the embodiment shown in FIG9 above. For details, please refer to the relevant descriptions in the embodiment shown in FIG9 above, which will not be repeated here.

[0189] Optionally, the device 1100 may further include a storage module, which can be used to store data and / or to store computer programs or instructions. The processing module 1110 can read the computer programs / instructions and / or data in the storage module so that the device 1100 can implement the above-described method embodiments.

[0190] When the communication device 1100 is used to implement the function of the first satellite in the method embodiment shown in FIG9, the processing module 1110 is used to: determine the updated reference position of the first satellite set, which is the reference position of the transmission beam of the first satellite set. The first satellite set includes multiple satellites that serve the same terminal device. The transceiver module 1120 is used to: send a first message, which includes the updated reference position of the first satellite set, or includes the offset of the updated reference position of the first satellite set relative to the reference position of the first satellite set before the update.

[0191] Optionally, the processing module 1110 is configured to: trigger an update of the first satellite set; and determine a reference position of the updated first satellite set based on the position of each satellite in the updated first satellite set.

[0192] Optionally, the first satellite set before the update includes at least two satellites. The processing module 1110 is configured to: determine the distance between the actual position of each of the at least two satellites and its corresponding reference position; and, if preset conditions are met, trigger an update of the first satellite set. The preset conditions include one or more of the following: the minimum distance among the at least two distances corresponding to the at least two satellites is greater than a first threshold; the sum of the at least two distances corresponding to the at least two satellites is greater than a second threshold; the average value of the at least two distances corresponding to the at least two satellites is greater than a third threshold; or, the weighted sum of the at least two distances corresponding to the at least two satellites is greater than a fourth threshold.

[0193] Optionally, the first satellite set before the update includes at least two satellites. The transceiver module 1120 is configured to: transmit a fifth threshold. The processing module 1110 is configured to: acquire the measurement result of each of the at least two satellites, the measurement result indicating whether the distance between each satellite and its corresponding reference position is greater than the fifth threshold; and, if the measurement result of each of at least one of the at least two satellites indicates that the distance between each satellite and its corresponding reference position is greater than the fifth threshold, trigger an update of the first satellite set, wherein the number of the at least one satellite is greater than or equal to a sixth threshold.

[0194] Optionally, the first message is a system message.

[0195] Optionally, the first message is an RRC message, a DCI message, or a MAC CE message.

[0196] When the communication device 1100 is used to implement the function of the first terminal device in the method embodiment shown in FIG9, the transceiver module 1120 is used to: receive a first message, the first message including the updated reference position of the first satellite set, or including the offset of the updated reference position of the first satellite set relative to the reference position of the first satellite set before the update, the reference position being the reference position of the transmission beam of the first satellite set, the first satellite set including multiple satellites, the multiple satellites serving the same terminal device. The processing module 1110 is used to: determine the direction of the receiving beam based on the first message.

[0197] Optionally, the first message is a system message.

[0198] Optionally, the first message is an RRC message, a DCI message, or a MAC CE message.

[0199] For a more detailed description of each step, please refer to the relevant descriptions in the method embodiments above, which will not be repeated here.

[0200] Figure 12 is a schematic block diagram of another communication device 1200 provided in an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 12, the device 1200 includes one or more processors 1210 and an interface circuit 1220. The one or more processors 1210 and the interface circuit 1220 are coupled to each other. It is understood that the interface circuit 1220 can be a transceiver or an input / output interface. Optionally, the device 1200 may also include a memory 1230 for storing instructions executed by the processor 1210, or storing input data required by the processor 1210 to execute instructions, or storing data generated after the processor 1210 executes instructions. Sometimes, the interface circuit 1220 can also be understood as part of the processor 1210, in which case the device 1200 includes the processor 1210.

[0201] The one or more processors 1210 and the memory 1230 can be configured separately or integrated, and there is no limitation on this.

[0202] When the communication device 1200 is used to implement the method shown in FIG12, the processor 1210 is used to implement the function of the above-mentioned transceiver module 1220, and the interface circuit 1220 is used to implement the function of the above-mentioned transceiver module 1210.

[0203] When the aforementioned communication device is a chip applied to a first satellite, the chip of the first satellite implements the functions of the first satellite in the above method embodiments. The chip of the first satellite receives information from the terminal device, which can be understood as the information being first received by other modules (such as radio frequency modules or antennas) in the first satellite, and then sent to the chip of the first satellite by these modules. The chip of the first satellite sends information to the terminal device, which can be understood as the information being first sent to other modules (such as radio frequency modules or antennas) in the first satellite, and then sent to the terminal device by these modules.

[0204] When the aforementioned communication device is a chip applied to a first terminal device, the chip of the first terminal device implements the functions of the first terminal device in the above method embodiments. The chip of the first terminal device receiving information from the first satellite can be understood as the information being first received by other modules (such as radio frequency modules or antennas) in the first terminal device, and then sent to the chip of the first terminal device by these modules. The chip of the first terminal device sending information to the first satellite can be understood as the information being first sent to other modules (such as radio frequency modules or antennas) in the first terminal device, and then sent to the first satellite by these modules.

[0205] This application also provides a computer-readable storage medium for storing a computer program that, when run on a computer, enables the execution of the aforementioned communication method. Alternatively, the computer program includes instructions for implementing the aforementioned communication method.

[0206] This application also provides a computer program product, including: a computer program or instructions, which, when the computer program or instructions are run on a computer, cause the above-described communication method to be executed.

[0207] This application also provides an apparatus, which can be a chip, including at least one processor for supporting the implementation of the methods in the above embodiments, such as receiving or processing data involved in the methods in the above embodiments.

[0208] It should be understood that, in the embodiments of this application, the processor can be a central processing unit, or it can be other general-purpose processors, digital signal processors (DSPs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), or other programmable logic devices, discrete gate or transistor logic devices, discrete hardware components, etc. The general-purpose processor can be a microprocessor or any conventional processor.

[0209] In implementation, each step of the above method can be completed by integrated logic circuits in the processor's hardware or by instructions in software. The steps of the method disclosed in the embodiments of this application can be directly manifested as execution by a hardware processor, or as a combination of hardware and software modules within the processor. The software modules can reside in random access memory, flash memory, read-only memory, programmable read-only memory, electrically erasable programmable memory, registers, or other mature storage media in the art. This storage medium is located in memory, and the processor executes the instructions in the memory, combining them with its hardware to complete the steps of the above method. To avoid repetition, detailed descriptions are omitted here.

[0210] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the modules and algorithm steps of the various examples described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented in electronic hardware, or a combination of computer software and electronic hardware. Whether these functions are implemented in hardware or software depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of this application.

[0211] Those skilled in the art will clearly understand that, for the sake of convenience and brevity, the specific working processes of the systems, devices, and modules described above can be referred to the corresponding processes in the foregoing method embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0212] 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 modules is only a logical functional division, and in actual implementation, there may be other division methods. For example, multiple modules or components may be combined or integrated into another system, or some features may be ignored or not executed. Furthermore, the coupling or direct coupling or communication connection shown or discussed may be through some interfaces; the indirect coupling or communication connection between apparatuses or modules may be electrical, mechanical, or other forms.

[0213] The modules described as separate components may or may not be physically separate. The components shown as modules may or may not be physical modules; that is, they may be located in one place or distributed across multiple network modules. Some or all of the modules can be selected to achieve the purpose of this embodiment according to actual needs.

[0214] In addition, the functional modules in the various embodiments of this application can be integrated into one processing module, or each module can exist physically separately, or two or more modules can be integrated into one module.

[0215] If the aforementioned functions are implemented as software functional modules and sold or used as independent products, they can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium. Based on this understanding, the technical solution of this application, in essence, or the part that contributes to the prior art, or a portion of the technical solution, can be embodied in the form of a software product. This computer software product is stored in a storage medium and includes several instructions to cause a computer device (which may be a personal computer, server, or network device, etc.) to execute all or part of the steps of the methods described in the various embodiments of this application. The aforementioned storage medium includes various media capable of storing program code, such as USB flash drives, external hard drives, ROM, RAM, magnetic disks, or optical disks.

[0216] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A communication method, characterized in that, include: Determine the reference position of the updated first satellite set, the reference position being the reference position of the transmission beam of the first satellite set, the first satellite set comprising multiple satellites, the multiple satellites serving the same terminal device; Send a first message, the first message including the reference position of the updated first satellite set, or including the offset of the reference position of the updated first satellite set relative to the reference position of the first satellite set before the update.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, Before determining the reference positions of the updated first satellite set, the method further includes: Trigger an update to the first set of satellites; Determining the reference position of the updated first satellite set includes: The reference position of the updated first satellite set is determined based on the position of each satellite in the updated first satellite set.

3. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first satellite set before the update includes at least two satellites; prior to triggering the update of the first satellite set, the method further includes: Determine the distance between the actual position of each of the at least two satellites and its corresponding reference position; The triggering of the update of the first satellite set includes: Under certain preset conditions, an update to the first satellite set is triggered; the preset conditions include one or more of the following: The minimum distance among the at least two distances corresponding to the at least two satellites is greater than the first threshold; The sum of at least two distances corresponding to at least two satellites is greater than the second threshold; The average of at least two distances corresponding to at least two satellites is greater than a third threshold; or, The weighted sum of at least two distances corresponding to at least two satellites is greater than the fourth threshold.

4. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that, The initial satellite set before the update includes at least two satellites; prior to triggering the update of the initial satellite set, the method further includes: Send the fifth threshold; The measurement results of each of the at least two satellites are obtained, and the measurement results are used to indicate whether the distance between each satellite and its corresponding reference position is greater than the fifth threshold; The triggering of the update of the first satellite set includes: If the measurement results of each of at least one of the at least two satellites indicate that the distance between the actual position of each satellite and its corresponding reference position is greater than the fifth threshold, an update of the first satellite set is triggered, wherein the number of the at least one satellite is greater than or equal to the sixth threshold.

5. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The first message is a system message.

6. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The first message is a Radio Resource Control (RRC) message, Downlink Control Information (DCI) message, or Media Access Control (MAC) CE message.

7. A communication method, characterized in that, include: Receive a first message, the first message including the updated reference position of the first satellite set, or including the offset of the updated reference position of the first satellite set relative to the reference position of the first satellite set before the update, the reference position being the reference position of the transmission beam of the first satellite set, the first satellite set including multiple satellites, the multiple satellites serving the same terminal device; Based on the first message, the direction of the receiving beam is determined.

8. The method according to claim 7, characterized in that, The first message is a system message.

9. The method according to claim 7, characterized in that, The first message is a Radio Resource Control (RRC) message, Downlink Control Information (DCI) message, or Media Access Control (MAC) CE message.

10. A communication device, characterized in that, It includes modules for implementing the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 6, or modules for implementing the method as described in any one of claims 7 to 9.

11. A communication device, characterized in that, The method includes at least one processor coupled to a memory for storing a program or instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the method of any one of claims 1 to 6 to be performed, or cause the method of any one of claims 7 to 9 to be performed.

12. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, Used to store a computer program that, when run on a computer, causes the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 6 to be performed, or causes the method as described in any one of claims 7 to 9 to be performed.

13. A computer program product, characterized in that, include: A computer program or instruction that, when executed, causes the method as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 6 to be performed, or causes the method as claimed in any one of claims 7 to 9 to be performed.

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