Communication method and apparatus

Abstract

A communication method and apparatus, relating to the field of communications. The communication method comprises: a terminal sends first information, used for indicating the completion time of a computing task, then receives second information, used for indicating a transmission resource for first data corresponding to the computing task, the transmission resource for the first data not being earlier in time than the completion time of the computing task, and finally sends the first data according to the second information. After the computing task is completed, in other words, after data corresponding to the computing task is generated, the terminal can immediately transmit the first data on the basis of the transmission resource of the first data, without needing to wait for the time occupied by the process of determining the transmission resource of the first data, thereby reducing the delay of transmitting the first data by the terminal.

Description

Communication methods and devices

[0001] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202411549746.8, filed with the State Intellectual Property Office of China on October 31, 2024, entitled "Communication Method and 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 communication methods and apparatus. Background Technology

[0003] With the rapid increase in communication speeds, real-time video transmission has become one of the core services of current networks. Meanwhile, the increasing maturity of extended reality (XR) technology has driven the vigorous development of related industries. As a typical type of XR technology, virtual reality (VR) technology has been widely applied in education, entertainment, healthcare, environmental protection, transportation, and public health, bringing users an unprecedented visual experience with its multi-viewpoint and highly interactive features. In addition to smartphones, users increasingly prefer to enhance their XR experience through user equipment (UE) such as head-mounted displays (HMDs) or smart glasses (such as VR and augmented reality (AR) glasses).

[0004] With the widespread adoption of XR devices, ensuring the efficient transmission of data generated by XR-related computing tasks has become a key research focus. In terms of computing deployment, inference based on artificial intelligence (AI) agents is typically used to guarantee the processing of computing tasks. However, although AI-based inference technology has been widely applied to computing task processing, it still faces high latency issues when transmitting data generated by these tasks. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This application provides a communication method and apparatus for reducing data transmission latency.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, this application adopts the following technical solution:

[0007] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a communication method that can be applied to a terminal side, such as a terminal or a communication module / processing module in the terminal, or a circuit or chip in the terminal responsible for communication functions (such as a modem chip, also known as a baseband chip, or a system-on-chip (SoC) chip containing a modem core or a system-in-package (SIP) chip), or a circuit or chip in the terminal responsible for processing functions (such as a graphics processing unit (GPU), an artificial intelligence (AI) processor, or an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC)). Taking the application of this method to a terminal as an example, in this method, the terminal sends first information indicating the completion time of a computing task, then receives second information indicating the transmission resources of first data corresponding to the computing task, wherein the transmission resources of the first data are not earlier than the completion time of the computing task; finally, the first data is sent according to the second information.

[0008] Using the above method, the terminal sends first information to the network device to indicate the completion time of the computing task. Then, the network device determines and sends second information to the terminal to indicate the transmission resources of the first data. The first data is the data corresponding to the computing task, and the transmission resources of the first data are no earlier than the completion time of the computing task. Finally, the terminal sends the first data to the network device according to the second information. In this way, the terminal determines the transmission resources of the first data before the computing task is completed. After the computing task is completed, in other words, after the data corresponding to the computing task is generated, the terminal can immediately transmit the first data based on the transmission resources of the first data without waiting for the time occupied by the process of determining the transmission resources of the first data. This reduces the latency of the terminal transmitting the above-mentioned uplink data and improves the transmission efficiency of uplink data.

[0009] In one possible design, the first information is also used to indicate the amount of data required for the computation task.

[0010] In this design, the amount of data for the computation task can be determined based on the aforementioned first information, which facilitates timely scheduling of the first data and improves resource utilization.

[0011] In one possible design, the first piece of information is used to indicate the processing stage of the computation task. Optionally, the processing stage of the computation task is associated with the completion time of the computation task, and / or, the processing stage of the computation task is associated with the amount of data in the computation task.

[0012] In this design, the first information is designed as the processing stage of the computing task, which requires fewer bits. By associating the processing stage with the completion time and data volume, and by using the terminal's computing power for estimation, refined task management and accurate progress prediction are achieved.

[0013] In one possible design, the first information is carried in the scheduling request and / or media access control layer signaling.

[0014] This design explores possible methods for carrying the first information, enabling flexible scheduling of this information. Specifically, a scheduling request is a signaling message used by a terminal to request new transmission resources when there is no valid authorization. Carrying the first information in the scheduling request allows the terminal to carry additional information while requesting resources, thereby improving the flexibility of information transmission. Media Access Control (MAC) signaling, as part of the control plane protocol stack, is responsible for managing and controlling the allocation of resources on the radio interface. Carrying the first information in MAC signaling enables precise control and efficient utilization of resources. Furthermore, by directly carrying the first information in the scheduling request and / or MAC signaling, additional signaling transmissions can be reduced, thereby lowering the system's signaling overhead.

[0015] Secondly, this method can be applied to the network side, such as access network equipment, modules (e.g., circuits, chips, or chip systems) within the access network equipment, or logical nodes, logical modules, or software that can implement all or part of the functions of the access network equipment. In this method, the network device receives first information from the terminal, then determines second information indicating the transmission resources for the first data based on the first information, sends the second information to the terminal, and finally receives the first data from the terminal.

[0016] Using the above method, the network device receives first information from the terminal indicating the completion time of the computing task. Then, the network device determines and sends second information to the terminal indicating the transmission resources of the first data. The first data is the data corresponding to the computing task, and the transmission resources of the first data are no earlier than the completion time of the computing task. Finally, the terminal sends the first data to the network device according to the second information. In this way, the terminal determines the transmission resources of the first data before the computing task is completed. After the computing task is completed, in other words, after the data corresponding to the computing task is generated, the terminal can immediately transmit the first data based on the transmission resources of the first data without waiting for the time occupied by the process of determining the transmission resources of the first data. This reduces the latency of the terminal transmitting the above-mentioned uplink data and improves the transmission efficiency of uplink data.

[0017] In one possible design, the first information is also used to indicate the amount of data required for the computation task.

[0018] In one possible design, the first piece of information is used to indicate the processing stage of the computation task. Optionally, the processing stage of the computation task is associated with the completion time of the computation task, and / or, the processing stage of the computation task is associated with the amount of data in the computation task.

[0019] In one possible design, the first information is carried in the scheduling request and / or media access control layer signaling.

[0020] The beneficial effects of the features described in this section can be found in the description of the beneficial effects of the corresponding features in the first section, and will not be repeated here.

[0021] Thirdly, this application provides a communication device that has the functions of the first aspect described above. For example, the communication device includes modules, units, or means that perform the operations involved in the first aspect. These modules, units, or means can be implemented by software, hardware, or a combination of software and hardware.

[0022] Fourthly, this application provides a communication device that has the functions of the second aspect above. For example, the communication device includes modules, units, or means that perform the operations involved in the second aspect above. These modules, units, or means can be implemented by software, hardware, or a combination of software and hardware.

[0023] Fifthly, this application provides a communication device including an interface circuit and one or more processors. The one or more processors are coupled to a memory. The memory stores part or all of the necessary computer program or instructions for implementing the functions described in the first aspect. The one or more processors can execute the computer program or instructions, causing the communication device to implement the methods in any possible design or implementation of the first aspect. The interface circuit is used to implement the communication functions within the communication device and / or the communication functions between the communication device and other devices or components.

[0024] In one possible design, the processor is used to communicate with other devices or components through the interface circuit.

[0025] In one possible design, the communication device may also include the memory.

[0026] The aforementioned communication device may be a terminal, or a communication / processing module in the terminal, or a chip in the terminal responsible for communication functions such as a modem chip (also known as a baseband chip) or a SoC or SIP chip containing a modem module, or a circuit or chip in the terminal responsible for processing functions (such as a GPU, AI processor, or ASIC).

[0027] Sixthly, this application provides a communication device including an interface circuit and one or more processors. The one or more processors are coupled to a memory. The memory stores part or all of the necessary computer program or instructions for implementing the functions described in the second aspect above. The one or more processors are executable to carry out the computer program or instructions, causing the communication device to implement the methods in any possible design or implementation of the second aspect above. The interface circuit is used to implement the communication functions within the communication device and / or the communication functions between the communication device and other devices or components.

[0028] In a seventh aspect, this application provides a communication system that may include a terminal and a network device. The terminal and the network device are respectively capable of performing the methods in either the first or second aspect of the design.

[0029] Eighthly, this application provides a computer-readable storage medium storing computer-readable instructions that, when read and executed by a computer, cause the computer to perform any of the possible designs in the first to second aspects described above.

[0030] Ninthly, this application provides a computer program product that, when read and executed by a computer, causes the computer to perform any of the possible designs in the first to second aspects described above.

[0031] The technical effects of any of the design methods in aspects two through nine can be found in the technical effects of different design methods in aspects one through two, and will not be repeated here. Attached Figure Description

[0032] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a communication scenario provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0033] Figures 2-4 are schematic diagrams of the communication system provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0034] Figure 5 is a flowchart illustrating a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0035] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of the data transmission process based on scheduling requests provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0036] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of the data transmission process based on buffer status reports provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0037] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of the communication device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0038] Figure 9 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the terminal provided in the embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0039] The network architecture and business scenarios described in the embodiments of this application are for the purpose of more clearly illustrating the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, and do not constitute a limitation on the technical solutions provided in the embodiments of this application. As those skilled in the art will know, with the evolution of network architecture and the emergence of new business scenarios, the technical solutions provided in the embodiments of this application are also applicable to similar technical problems.

[0040] Before introducing the embodiments of this application, some terms involved in the embodiments of this application will be explained.

[0041] 1. Reasoning based on AI agents: Using artificial intelligence technologies, especially machine learning and deep learning, to build agents with autonomous decision-making and reasoning capabilities. These agents can process data, reason about knowledge, and make decisions based on environmental inputs, internal states, and preset goals through algorithmic models to achieve intelligent processes for specific tasks or goals.

[0042] From the perspective of intelligent deployment location, AI agent-based inference can be mainly divided into three categories: edge computing, cloud computing, and mobile computing.

[0043] Edge computing: Data processing is performed directly on the device or terminal, close to the data source, reducing transmission latency and bandwidth consumption, but it is limited by computing power and storage, and is suitable for scenarios with real-time response, low latency and low computing power requirements.

[0044] Edge computing: Data processing is performed at edge nodes (such as servers and base stations) that are close to user devices. It aims to reduce transmission latency and improve response time. It is suitable for scenarios with high real-time requirements, such as video analytics and smart cities.

[0045] Cloud computing: provides computing and storage resources via the Internet, and is suitable for scenarios with large-scale computing and storage needs, such as big data processing and artificial intelligence.

[0046] Furthermore, intelligent deployment can be carried out in parallel across multiple nodes in multiple locations; agent inference in this deployment scenario is called distributed inference. Distributed inference significantly accelerates processing speed and improves overall efficiency by integrating multiple nodes (including at least one of edge devices, cloud nodes, and other similar nodes) to perform parallel processing of inference tasks. This technology enables flexible and dynamic allocation of resources, improving resource utilization.

[0047] 2. Implementation process of AI agent-based inference computing services in uplink communication scenarios:

[0048] In communication scenarios, network devices and terminals can utilize AI-based inference to perform computational services. For uplink communication scenarios, uplink transmission processes based on scheduling requests (SR) (referred to as SR processes) and buffer status reports (BSR) (referred to as BSR processes) are often used to transmit data generated from processing computational services.

[0049] As a key mechanism for managing uplink data transmission resources in mobile communication networks, the following is a brief explanation of the SR (Streaming Service) procedure and the BSR (Background Service) procedure:

[0050] (1) The SR procedure is a mechanism triggered by a terminal when it needs to send uplink data but has not yet obtained valid uplink resources. When a terminal has data to send and uplink resources are not currently allocated, it sends a simple on / off signal, SR, to the gNodeB (called eNodeB in LTE, i.e., the base station) through the physical uplink control channel (PUCCH). This signal contains only one bit of information to notify the gNodeB that there is data to be sent. Once the gNodeB receives the SR, it responds and allocates uplink resources for the terminal, usually by sending an uplink grant (UL grant) through the physical downlink control channel.

[0051] (2) The BSR procedure is a way for the terminal to report its uplink data buffer status to the gNodeB after obtaining uplink resources. The BSR usually contains detailed information such as the buffer size, priority, and related transmission time intervals and durations of the logical channel group. This information is crucial for the gNodeB because it needs to allocate appropriate resources and modulation and coding schemes to the terminal in order to transmit uplink data on the physical uplink shared channel (PUSCH).

[0052] The SR process and the BSR process usually have a certain order:

[0053] Generally, the SR (Request for Response) process occurs before the BSR (Background Response) process. This is because the terminal needs to request uplink resources via SR first, and only after obtaining the resources can it report its buffer status via BSR.

[0054] Special cases: In certain special circumstances, such as when the terminal already has valid uplink resources, it may send a BSR directly without sending an SR first. However, this situation is not common.

[0055] Furthermore, these two processes are interconnected: the success or failure of the SR process affects the triggering of the BSR process. If the SR fails, the terminal may not be able to obtain uplink resources and thus cannot send a BSR. The impact of BSR on resource allocation: the result of the BSR process directly affects the gNodeB's subsequent resource allocation decisions for the terminal. If the BSR indicates that the terminal's buffer status is urgent or the data volume is large, the gNodeB may allocate more uplink resources to the terminal to meet its transmission needs.

[0056] In summary, the SR and BSR procedures play a crucial role in mobile communication networks. They work together to enable terminals to effectively utilize uplink resources to transmit data.

[0057] As described in the background section, with the improvement of communication speed, real-time video transmission has become a core business of the network. At the same time, XR technology (especially VR) has been widely used in education, entertainment and other fields, bringing users an unprecedented visual experience. Users are more inclined to use devices such as HMD or smart glasses to enhance this experience.

[0058] In addition, intelligent robots have also shown great potential, not only in performing heavy, repetitive and dangerous tasks in the industrial field, improving production efficiency and safety, and reducing labor costs, but also in providing convenient and efficient services in the service sectors such as healthcare, catering, hotels, and retail, and in becoming partners for personalized learning and entertainment in the education and entertainment fields.

[0059] However, with the widespread adoption of XR devices and intelligent robots, users' demand for immersive experiences is growing, leading to a surge in data traffic. This is particularly true for high-quality video transmission, real-time interaction, and complex scene rendering, posing a significant challenge to network transmission efficiency. Therefore, ensuring the efficient transmission of data generated by XR-related computational tasks has become a key research focus. In terms of computational deployment, the AI ​​agent-based inference technology described above is commonly used to guarantee efficient processing of computational tasks and address this challenge.

[0060] In terms of computing deployment, although AI agent-based inference technology has been widely applied to the processing of computing tasks, high latency issues still exist when transmitting data generated by these tasks. As shown in Figure 1, this is mainly because when using SR or BSR procedures to transmit data generated by computing services, the terminal only triggers the SR or BSR procedure after receiving the data generated by the computing task. It needs to wait for the terminal to negotiate transmission resources with the network device based on the SR or BSR procedure before it can begin transmitting the data using the negotiated resources, resulting in high latency.

[0061] To address the aforementioned technical problems, this application provides a communication method. The method provided in this application is described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0062] The communication method provided in this application can be applied to various communication systems, such as Long Term Evolution (LTE) systems, 5G mobile communication systems, Wireless Fidelity (WiFi) systems, future communication systems, or systems integrating multiple communication systems. This application does not limit the application to these systems. 5G can also be referred to as NR.

[0063] The communication method provided in this application can be applied to various communication scenarios, such as one or more of the following communication scenarios: enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB), ultra-reliable low latency communication (URLLC), machine type communication (MTC), massive machine type communications (mMTC), device to device (D2D), vehicle to everything (V2X), vehicle to vehicle (V2V), and Internet of Things (IoT).

[0064] To facilitate understanding of the embodiments of this application, the application scenario used in this application is described using the communication system architecture shown in Figure 2 as an example. Figure 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating a possible, non-limiting system. As shown in Figure 2, the communication system 10 includes a radio access network (RAN) 100 and a core network (CN) 200. RAN 100 includes at least one RAN node (110a and 110b in Figure 2, collectively referred to as 110) and at least one terminal (120a-120j in Figure 2, collectively referred to as 120). RAN 100 may also include other RAN nodes, such as wireless relay devices and / or wireless backhaul devices (not shown in Figure 2). Terminal 120 is wirelessly connected to RAN node 110. RAN node 110 is wirelessly or wired connected to core network 200. The core network devices in core network 200 and RAN node 110 in RAN 100 can be different physical devices, or they can be the same physical device integrating core network logical functions and radio access network logical functions.

[0065] RAN 100 can be a cellular system related to the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP), such as 4G, 5G mobile communication systems, or future-oriented evolution systems. RAN 100 can also be an open RAN (O-RAN or ORAN), a cloud radio access network (CRAN), or a wireless fidelity (WiFi) system. RAN 100 can also be a communication system that integrates two or more of the above systems.

[0066] RAN node 110, sometimes also referred to as access network equipment, network equipment, RAN entity, or access node, constitutes part of the communication system and is used to help terminals achieve wireless access. Multiple RAN nodes 110 in communication system 10 can be of the same type or different types. In some scenarios, the roles of RAN node 110 and terminal 120 are relative. For example, network element 120i in Figure 2 can be a helicopter or drone, which can be configured as a mobile base station. For terminals 120j accessing RAN 100 through network element 120i, network element 120i is a base station; but for base station 110a, network element 120i is a terminal. RAN node 110 and terminal 120 are sometimes both referred to as communication devices. For example, network elements 110a and 110b in Figure 2 can be understood as communication devices with base station functions, and network elements 120a-120j can be understood as communication devices with terminal functions.

[0067] In one possible scenario, the RAN node can be a base station, an evolved NodeB (eNodeB), an access point (AP), a transmission reception point (TRP), a next-generation NodeB (gNB), a base station in a future mobile communication system, or an access node in a WiFi system. The RAN node can be a macro base station (as shown in Figure 2, 110a), a micro base station or indoor station (as shown in Figure 2, 110b), a relay node or donor node, or a radio controller in a CRAN scenario. Optionally, the RAN node can also be a server, wearable device, vehicle, or in-vehicle equipment. For example, the access network equipment in vehicle-to-everything (V2X) technology can be a roadside unit (RSU). All or part of the functions of the RAN node in this application can also be implemented through software functions running on hardware, or through virtualization functions instantiated on a platform (e.g., a cloud platform). The RAN node can also be equipped with communication modules, circuits, or chips that perform corresponding communication functions. The RAN node can also be configured with program instructions for performing corresponding communication functions, as well as corresponding program instructions. The RAN node in this application can also be a logical node, logical module, or software capable of implementing all or part of the RAN node's functions.

[0068] In another possible scenario, multiple RAN nodes collaborate to assist the terminal in achieving wireless access, with each RAN node performing a portion of the base station's functions. For example, RAN nodes can be central units (CUs), distributed units (DUs), CU-control plane (CPs), CU-user plane (UPs), or radio units (RUs), etc. CUs and DUs can be separate entities or included in the same network element, such as a baseband unit (BBU). RUs can be included in radio frequency equipment or radio frequency units, such as remote radio units (RRUs), active antenna units (AAUs), or remote radio heads (RRHs).

[0069] In different systems, CU (or CU-CP and CU-UP), DU, or RU may have different names, but those skilled in the art will understand their meaning. For example, in an ORAN system, CU can also be called O-CU (open CU), DU can also be called O-DU, CU-CP can also be called O-CU-CP, CU-UP can also be called O-CU-UP, and RU can also be called O-RU. For ease of description, this application uses CU, CU-CP, CU-UP, DU, and RU as examples. Any of the units among CU (or CU-CP, CU-UP), DU, and RU in this application can be implemented through software modules, hardware modules, or a combination of software and hardware modules.

[0070] In this embodiment, the form of the RAN node is not limited. The device used to implement the function of the RAN node can be the RAN node itself; or it can be a device that supports the RAN node in implementing this function, such as a chip system. The device can be installed in the RAN node or used in conjunction with the RAN node.

[0071] A terminal can be a device or module that accesses the aforementioned communication system and has corresponding communication functions. A terminal can also be called a terminal device, user equipment (UE), mobile station, mobile terminal, etc. Terminals can be widely used in various scenarios, such as device-to-device (D2D), vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication, machine-type communication (MTC), Internet of Things (IoT), virtual reality, augmented reality, industrial control, autonomous driving, telemedicine, smart grids, smart furniture, smart offices, smart wearables, smart transportation, smart cities, etc. Terminals can be mobile phones, tablets, computers with wireless transceiver capabilities, wearable devices, vehicles, drones, helicopters, airplanes, ships, robots, robotic arms, smart home devices, transportation vehicles with wireless communication capabilities, communication modules, etc. The embodiments of this application do not limit the device form of the terminal. A terminal typically contains a communication module, circuit, or chip that performs the corresponding communication function. The terminal can also be configured with program instructions for performing the corresponding communication function.

[0072] The embodiments of this application do not limit the device form of the terminal. The device used to implement the functions of the terminal can be the terminal itself; it can also be a device that supports the terminal in implementing the functions, such as a chip system. The device can be installed in the terminal or used in conjunction with the terminal. In the embodiments of this application, the chip system can be composed of chips or can include chips and other discrete devices. All or part of the functions of the terminal in this application can also be implemented by software functions running on hardware, or by virtualization functions instantiated on a platform (e.g., a cloud platform).

[0073] In one embodiment, AI nodes may also be introduced into the wireless network to support artificial intelligence (AI) technology.

[0074] AI nodes can be deployed in one or more of the following locations within the communication system: access network nodes (RAN nodes), terminal devices, or core network devices. Alternatively, AI nodes can be deployed independently, for example, in a location other than any of the aforementioned devices, such as in the host or cloud server of an over-the-top (OTT) system. AI nodes can communicate with other devices in the communication system, which can be one or more of the following: network devices, terminal devices, or core network elements.

[0075] It is understood that this application does not limit the number of AI nodes. For example, when there are multiple AI nodes, these nodes can be divided based on function, such as different AI nodes being responsible for different functions.

[0076] It can also be understood that AI nodes can be independent devices, or they can be integrated into the same device to achieve different functions. Alternatively, they can be network elements in hardware devices, software functions running on dedicated hardware, or virtualization functions instantiated on a platform (e.g., a cloud platform). This application does not limit the specific form of the aforementioned AI nodes.

[0077] AI nodes can be AI network elements or AI modules.

[0078] The preceding text has introduced the communication system applicable to the embodiments of this application from a macro-architectural perspective. To help deepen the understanding of this system in a practical application environment, the following will provide a more specific explanation of the communication system through several examples. It should be noted that the communication system examples listed below are for illustrative purposes and are intended to provide an intuitive understanding. The actual application scope of this application is far greater than this, and it is also compatible and adaptable to other types of communication systems, and is not limited thereto.

[0079] For example, Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of a possible application framework in a communication system. As shown in Figure 3, network elements in the communication system are connected through interfaces (e.g., NG, Xn) or air interfaces. These network element nodes, such as core network equipment, access network nodes (RAN nodes), terminals, or one or more devices in operations administration and maintenance (OAM), are equipped with one or more AI modules (only one is shown in Figure 3 for clarity). The access network node can be a single RAN node or can include multiple RAN nodes, for example, including CU and DU. The CU and / or DU can also be equipped with one or more AI modules. The CU can also be split into CU-CP and CU-UP, and one or more AI modules are installed in the CU-CP and / or CU-UP.

[0080] AI modules are used to implement corresponding AI functions. AI modules deployed in different network elements can be the same or different. The models of AI modules can achieve different functions depending on the parameter configurations. The models of AI modules can be configured based on one or more of the following parameters: structural parameters (e.g., at least one of the following: number of neural network layers, neural network width, inter-layer connections, neuron weights, neuron activation function, or biases in the activation function), input parameters (e.g., the type and / or dimension of the input parameters), or output parameters (e.g., the type and / or dimension of the output parameters). The biases in the activation function can also be referred to as the biases of the neural network.

[0081] In one example, the neural network mentioned above can be a deep neural network (DNN), a convolutional neural network (CNN), a recurrent neural network (RNN), or a generative adversarial network (GAN).

[0082] Deep Neural Networks (DNNs) are artificial neural network architectures with multiple layers of nonlinear transformation units stacked in a hierarchical structure to form deep computational models. Compared to shallow neural networks, deep neural networks have more layers, allowing the network model to capture more complex data structures and higher-level abstract features.

[0083] A CNN is a deep neural network with a convolutional structure. A CNN contains a feature extractor consisting of convolutional layers and subsampling layers. This feature extractor can be viewed as a filter, and the convolution process can be seen as performing convolution between a trainable filter and an input image or a convolutional feature map.

[0084] RNN is a type of recursive neural network that takes sequence data as input, recursively moves along the direction of sequence evolution, and connects all nodes (recurrent units) in a chain-like manner.

[0085] GAN is a deep learning model. It consists of a generator and a discriminator, and is trained through adversarial learning. Its purpose is to estimate the potential distribution of data samples and generate new data samples.

[0086] An AI module can have one or more models. A model can infer an output, which includes one or more parameters. The learning, training, or inference processes of different models can be deployed on different nodes or devices, or they can be deployed on the same node or device.

[0087] In another example, Figure 4 illustrates a different possible application framework in a communication system. As shown in Figure 4, the communication system includes a RAN intelligent controller (RIC). For example, the RIC could be the AI ​​module shown in Figure 3, used to implement AI-related functions. RICs include near-real-time RICs (near-RT RICs) and non-real-time RICs (non-RT RICs). Non-real-time RICs primarily process non-real-time information, such as data that is not sensitive to latency, with latency in the order of seconds. Real-time RICs primarily process near-real-time information, such as data that is relatively sensitive to latency, with latency in the order of tens of milliseconds.

[0088] Near real-time (NRT) RICs are used for model training and inference. For example, they are used to train AI models and then use those models for inference. NRT RICs can obtain network-side and / or terminal-side information from RAN nodes (e.g., CUs, CU-CPs, CU-UPs, DUs, and / or RUs) and / or terminals. This information can be used as training data or inference data. NRT RICs can deliver inference results to RAN nodes and / or terminals. Inference results can be exchanged between CUs and DUs, and / or between DUs and RUs. For example, a NRT RIC delivers an inference result to a DU, which then forwards it to an RU.

[0089] Non-real-time RICs are also used for model training and inference. For example, they are used to train AI models and then use those models for inference. Non-real-time RICs can obtain network-side and / or terminal-side information from RAN nodes (e.g., CUs, CU-CPs, CU-UPs, DUs, and / or RUs) and / or terminals. This information can be used as training data or inference data, and the inference results can be delivered to RAN nodes and / or terminals. Inference results can be exchanged between CUs and DUs, and / or between DUs and RUs; for example, a non-real-time RIC delivers inference results to a DU, which then forwards them to an RU.

[0090] Near real-time RICs and non-real-time RICs can also be configured as separate network elements. Near real-time RICs and non-real-time RICs can also be part of other devices. For example, near real-time RICs can be set in RAN nodes (e.g., CU, DU), while non-real-time RICs can be set in OAM, cloud servers, core network devices, or other network devices.

[0091] In conjunction with the aforementioned communication system, this application provides a communication method in which a terminal sends first information to a network device to indicate the completion time of a computing task. Then, the network device determines and sends second information to the terminal to indicate the transmission resources for first data. The first data is the data corresponding to the computing task, and the transmission resources for the first data are no earlier than the completion time of the computing task. Finally, the terminal sends the first data to the network device based on the second information. Thus, the terminal determines the transmission resources for the first data even before the computing task is completed. After the computing task is completed, or in other words, after the data corresponding to the computing task is generated, the terminal can immediately transmit the first data based on the transmission resources for the first data, without waiting for the time required to determine the transmission resources for the first data. This reduces the latency of the terminal transmitting the aforementioned uplink data and improves the transmission efficiency of the uplink data.

[0092] It should be noted that "sending information" in this application can be understood as one device sending information to another device, or it can also be understood as one logical module within a device sending information to another logical module. For example, "network device sending information" can be understood as a network device sending information to another device (such as a terminal), or it can be understood as logical module 1 in the network device sending information to logical module 2 in the network device.

[0093] In this application, "receiving information" can be understood as one device receiving information from another device, or it can also be understood as a logical module within a device receiving information from another logical module. For example, "network device receiving information" can be understood as a network device receiving information from another device (such as a terminal), or it can be understood as logical module 1 in the network device receiving information from logical module 2 in the network device.

[0094] In this application, phrases such as "sending information to... (e.g., a terminal)" or related illustrations in the accompanying drawings can be understood as indicating that the destination of the information is a terminal. This can include sending information directly or indirectly to a terminal. Similarly, phrases such as "receiving information from... (e.g., a terminal)," "receiving information from... (e.g., a terminal)," or "receiving information sent by (e.g., a terminal)," or related illustrations in the accompanying drawings, can be understood as indicating that the source of the information is a terminal. This can include receiving information directly or indirectly from a terminal. Information may undergo necessary processing between the source and destination, such as format changes, but the destination can understand the valid information from the source. Similar expressions in this application can be interpreted similarly and will not be elaborated further here.

[0095] In the following embodiments of this application, the message names between network elements, the names of parameters, or the names of information are just examples. Other names may be used in other embodiments, and the communication method provided in this application does not specifically limit them.

[0096] It is understood that in the embodiments of this application, each network element may execute some or all of the steps in the embodiments of this application. These steps or operations are merely examples, and the embodiments of this application may also execute other operations or variations thereof. Furthermore, the steps may be executed in different orders as presented in the embodiments of this application, and it is not necessary to execute all the operations in the embodiments of this application.

[0097] It is understood that this application uses terminal devices and network devices as examples to illustrate the execution of the interaction, but this application does not limit the execution subject of the interaction. For example, the method executed by the terminal device in this application can also be executed by a module applied to the terminal device (e.g., a chip, chip system, or processor), or by a logical node, logical module, or software that can implement all or part of the functions of the terminal device; the method executed by the terminal in this application can also be implemented by the communication / processing module in the terminal or the circuit or chip in the terminal responsible for communication / processing functions (such as a modem chip (also known as a baseband chip), or a SoC chip / SIP chip containing a modem core, or a GPU / AI processor / ASIC).

[0098] The methods executed by the network device in this application can also be executed by a module (e.g., a chip, chip system, or processor) applied to the network device, or by a logical node, logical module, or software that can implement all or part of the functions of the network device. The embodiments of this application do not specifically limit this.

[0099] Figure 5 shows a flowchart of the communication method provided in an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 5, the method may include the following steps:

[0100] S110, the terminal sends the first information to the network device. Correspondingly, the network device receives the first information from the terminal.

[0101] When the terminal acquires a computing task, it can estimate the completion time of the task. While processing the computing task or before starting to process it, the terminal reports the completion time of the computing task to the network device via first information; that is, the first information indicates the completion time of the computing task. Upon receiving the first information, the network device determines the completion time of the computing task based on it, reserves corresponding transmission resources for the data corresponding to the computing task, and instructs the terminal via second information in step S120 below. For example, this transmission resource can be a time-domain resource. In one possible interpretation, the data corresponding to the computing task is the data generated by the terminal processing the computing task. The trigger condition for the terminal to send the first information can be acquiring the computing task or starting to generate the data corresponding to the computing task.

[0102] Understandably, the terminal can flexibly choose the method used to process computing tasks. In one example, the terminal can choose the AI ​​agent-based inference processing computing task described above. In this scenario, as an option, the complete computing task may be divided among multiple devices (potentially including the terminal and network devices) for processing; in other words, distributed inference processing is used to process the complete computing task. As one of these multiple devices, the computing task processed by the terminal is a part of the complete computing task. The specific devices and computing tasks allocated to this task can be flexibly negotiated by the multiple devices and are not restricted. Of course, as another option, the entire computing task can also be handled by the terminal without restriction.

[0103] As mentioned earlier, the first information is used to indicate the completion time of the computation task. Optionally, the first information can indicate the duration of the difference between the current time and the completion time of the computation task. Alternatively, the first information can also indicate a specific moment when the computation task is completed.

[0104] It is understood that, considering some acceptable errors, this application does not require the content of the first information to be an absolute time. The first information can also indicate a time interval. For example, when the first information indicates the aforementioned duration, the first information can specifically indicate T0±K1, where T0 represents the duration and K1 represents the acceptable duration fluctuation. In another example, when the first information indicates the aforementioned moment, the first information can specifically indicate T±K2, where T represents the moment and K1 represents the acceptable moment fluctuation. Both can indicate the completion time of the computation task.

[0105] Optionally, the first information can also be used to indicate the data volume of the computing task. After the terminal obtains the computing task, it can estimate the amount of data generated if the computing task is completed, i.e., the data volume of the aforementioned computing task. This is then indicated to the network device via the first information. At this time, when the network device receives the first information, it can determine the data volume of the computing task based on the first information, and then reserve corresponding transmission resources for the data corresponding to the computing task, and indicate this to the terminal via the second information in step S120 below. For example, this transmission resource can be network bandwidth resources, storage resources, and / or computing resources, etc.

[0106] Of course, the specific content of the first information can be designed in various ways in the embodiments of this application, which will be introduced after step S130, and will not be described in detail here.

[0107] S120, the network device sends the second information to the terminal, and the terminal receives the second information from the network device accordingly.

[0108] Once the network device determines the second information indicating the transmission resources for the first data using the first information as described in step S110, it can then instruct the network device to provide this information. As described in step S110, the transmission resources for the first data may include at least one of the following: time-domain resources, network bandwidth resources, storage resources, or computing resources. These resources each play different roles; for example, time-domain resources ensure data is transmitted within the correct time period, network bandwidth resources provide the channel width required for data transmission, storage resources are used to temporarily store data to be transmitted, and computing resources may participate in the preprocessing or post-processing of the data.

[0109] Furthermore, the transmission resources for the first data are not earlier than the completion time of the computation task. In other words, the time-domain resources configured by the network device for the first data are not earlier than the completion time of the computation task. This ensures that the data transmission process begins only after the first data has been generated.

[0110] Understandably, the second information, serving as an indication or configuration of the first data transmission resource, possesses high flexibility. The second information can directly and explicitly specify the particular transmission resource that the first data should use, regardless of the resource type. Alternatively, to further improve communication efficiency and resource utilization, the second information can also indicate the corresponding index of the first data transmission resource. This indexing method avoids transmitting complete resource information during communication, instead using a concise identifier to locate the specific resource, thus consuming fewer bits. Whether directly indicating the resource itself or indirectly referencing it through an index, the second information effectively meets the needs of data transmission, improving its accuracy and efficiency.

[0111] For example, the second information can be an uplink grant message, which is carried in downlink control information (DCI) and transmitted through the physical downlink control channel (PDCCH).

[0112] S130, the terminal sends first data to the network device according to the second information, and the network device receives the first data from the terminal accordingly.

[0113] Specifically, once the terminal receives the second information indicating the transmission resources for the first data, it can send the first data to the network device based on the transmission resources for the first data after the computation task is completed and the first data is generated. The specific transmission process of how the terminal transmits the first data based on the transmission resources configured on the network device is relatively mature and can be found in relevant technical descriptions; it will not be elaborated further here.

[0114] In this embodiment, the terminal sends first information to the network device to indicate the completion time of the computing task. Then, the network device determines and sends second information to the terminal to indicate the transmission resources of the first data. The first data is the data corresponding to the computing task, and the transmission resources of the first data are no earlier than the completion time of the computing task. Finally, the terminal sends the first data to the network device according to the second information. In this way, the terminal determines the transmission resources of the first data before the computing task is completed. After the computing task is completed, in other words, after the data corresponding to the computing task is generated, the terminal can immediately transmit the first data based on the transmission resources of the first data without waiting for the time occupied by the process of determining the transmission resources of the first data. This reduces the latency of the terminal transmitting the above-mentioned uplink data and improves the transmission efficiency of uplink data.

[0115] As mentioned above, the specific content of the first information can be designed in various ways in the embodiments of this application. The specific design of the content of the first information is illustrated below:

[0116] In one embodiment, as an optional approach, the specific design of the content of the first information can be designed to indicate the processing stage of the computing task. Optionally, the processing stage of the computing task can be associated with the completion time of the computing task, and / or, the processing stage of the computing task can also be associated with the data volume of the computing task. In this scenario, the terminal and the network device pre-agree on the method for dividing the processing stage of the computing task, that is, the computing task is divided into several processing stages, for example, three processing stages. Furthermore, the network device can obtain the content of the computing task (e.g., terminal reporting), and the network device can estimate the completion time and / or the amount of data generated in a certain stage of the terminal's processing of the computing task based on the terminal's computing power (referred to as network prediction information). Thus, when the network device receives the first information indicating the processing stage of the computing task, the network device can combine the aforementioned network prediction information and the first information to determine how much time / how much data remains before the computing task is fully completed. In this way, designing the first piece of information to indicate the processing stage of the computational task requires fewer bits. By associating processing stages with completion time and data volume, and utilizing the terminal's computing power for estimation, refined task management and accurate progress prediction are achieved. Simultaneously, the agreed-upon method for segmenting processing stages enhances task transparency, enabling network devices to clearly understand task progress. Based on this, network devices can optimize resource allocation and improve system flexibility.

[0117] For example, as an optional solution, the first information can be carried in the scheduling request. In other words, as shown in Figure 6, in the SR process, the first information is carried by the scheduling request, and the second information is carried by the DCI, thus realizing the transmission of the first data. In this case, the SR process can be set with the following optional triggering rules: Triggering rule one: Trigger the SR process within a time period X before the completion time Td of the computing task. Here, X represents a duration, the value of which can be configured by the terminal or network device, or explicitly specified by the protocol, without specific limitations. Triggering rule two: Trigger the above SR process before the start of computing task processing. Based on the triggering rules in the above example, the SR process can be initiated in a timely manner.

[0118] As an alternative, the first information can also be carried in the Media Access Control (MAC) CE. For example, the buffer status report, as a type of MAC CE, can carry the first information. In other words, as shown in Figure 7, in the BSR process, the first information is carried by the buffer status report, and the second information is carried by the DCI, thus achieving the transmission of the first data. Alternatively, the first information can also be carried in a newly designed MAC CE, without restriction. Similarly, the BSR process can also be set with the following optional triggering rules: Triggering Rule 1: Trigger the SR process within the X' time period before the completion time Td of the computing task. Here, X' represents a duration, the value of which can be configured by the terminal or network device, or explicitly specified by the protocol, without specific restrictions. Triggering Rule 2: Trigger the above SR process before the start of computing task processing. Based on the triggering rules in the above examples, the BSR process can be initiated in a timely manner.

[0119] Of course, both scheduling requests and MAC CEs can be used to carry the first information simultaneously. In one example, the first information can be divided based on granularity. For instance, coarser-grained first information can be carried in the scheduling request, while finer-grained first information can be carried in the MAC CE. This saves bit usage on the scheduling request, while the MAC CE, with its abundant available bits, carries the larger, finer-grained first information. By using both scheduling requests and MAC CEs to carry the first information simultaneously, and flexibly selecting the transmission method based on the granularity of the information (i.e., level of detail or size), resource utilization is optimized and information transmission efficiency is improved. For coarser-grained information, the scheduling request, due to its simple structure and primary use for requesting uplink resources, effectively saves bit usage; while finer-grained, larger-scale information is carried by the MAC CE, utilizing its abundant available bits. This design not only improves system compatibility, as both scheduling requests and MAC CEs are defined in existing communication protocols, requiring no significant system modifications, but also enhances the reliability of information transmission to a certain extent. Prioritization and guarantee mechanisms for scheduling requests enable timely transmission of coarse-grained information, while MAC CE enables accurate transmission of fine-grained information.

[0120] In another example, the first information is further divided based on its type. For instance, if the first information simultaneously indicates the completion time and data volume of a computational task, then the first information indicating the completion time is carried in the scheduling request, while the first information indicating the data volume is carried in the MAC CE. By dividing the first information based on its type and carrying it separately in the scheduling request and MAC CE, resource utilization is optimized, and the efficiency and accuracy of information transmission are improved. This is reflected in the fact that information with high timeliness requirements but small information volume, such as indicating the completion time of the computational task, is carried in the simple scheduling request, while larger information volume, such as indicating the data volume of the computational task, is carried using the abundant bits of the MAC CE. This resource optimization strategy not only speeds up the system response time but also enhances the reliability of information transmission through existing communication protocol guarantee mechanisms.

[0121] As an alternative approach, considering that the number of bits that the communication system can reserve for the first information may be relatively limited, if the first information needs to indicate a large amount of content described above (e.g., the completion time and / or the data volume of the calculation task), the limited number of bits cannot directly indicate the content of the corresponding first information. Therefore, in this application, the first information can directly indicate the content to be indicated, or the first information can also indicate the index corresponding to the content to be indicated. In this case, the network device and the terminal can pre-agree on the mapping information between the index and the corresponding content, or the mapping information between the index and the corresponding content can be agreed upon by the protocol, without restriction.

[0122] In other words, this application proposes two flexible communication methods in this optional scheme: First, the first information can directly indicate the content, which is direct and efficient, avoiding additional mapping steps and potential errors; second, the first information indicates the index of the content instead of direct indication. The index, as a small number or code, can represent a large amount of information within a limited number of bits. Simultaneously, the network device and the terminal (or protocol) need to pre-agree on the mapping information between the index and the corresponding content to improve communication effectiveness. This scheme, combining direct indication and index indication, not only improves communication flexibility but also significantly enhances communication efficiency, meeting the needs of different communication scenarios.

[0123] Based on the above description, it is clear that this application, starting from whether the terminal can report the completion time of the computing task (and / or the data corresponding to the computing task) in advance so that the network device can configure transmission resources for transmitting the data corresponding to the computing task in advance, designs the following method: The terminal sends first information to the network device to indicate the completion time of the computing task. Then, the network device determines and sends second information to the terminal to indicate the transmission resources of the first data. The first data is the data corresponding to the computing task, and the transmission resources of the first data are no earlier than the completion time of the computing task. Finally, the terminal sends the first data to the network device according to the second information. In this way, the terminal determines the transmission resources of the first data before the computing task is completed. After the computing task is completed, in other words, after the data corresponding to the computing task is generated, the terminal can immediately transmit the first data based on the transmission resources of the first data without waiting for the time occupied by the process of determining the transmission resources of the first data. This reduces the latency of the terminal transmitting the above-mentioned uplink data and improves the transmission efficiency of uplink data.

[0124] It is understood that the communication method provided in this application embodiment does not limit the applicable communication system. For example, the communication method provided in this application embodiment can be applied to an O-RAN communication system. Based on the functional design of O-DU / O-CU / O-RU in the O-RAN communication system, the steps executed by the network device in the communication method provided in this application embodiment can be flexibly implemented by one or more of O-DU / O-CU / O-RU, without limitation.

[0125] In another embodiment, the communication method proposed in this application is also applicable to a chip system. Specifically, the chip system on the network side and / or the terminal side is provided with a memory unit for storing the corresponding information (such as first information) for implementing the communication method of this application embodiment. Based on the corresponding information, the processor, in conjunction with a radio frequency / antenna module with transceiver functions, interacts with the other side to implement the communication method of this application embodiment.

[0126] The foregoing mainly describes the solution provided by the embodiments of this application from the perspective of the execution logic of each step. It is understood that each node, such as a network device, includes corresponding hardware structures and / or software modules to execute each function in order to achieve the above-mentioned functions. Those skilled in the art should readily recognize that, in conjunction with the algorithm steps of the examples described in the embodiments disclosed herein, the method of the embodiments of this application can be implemented in hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and computer software. Whether a function is executed in a hardware or computer software-driven hardware manner 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.

[0127] This application embodiment can divide the network device into functional modules according to the above method example. For example, each function can be divided into its own functional module, or two or more functions can be integrated into one processing module. The integrated module can be implemented in hardware or as a software functional module. It should be noted that the module division in this application embodiment is illustrative and only represents one logical functional division. In actual implementation, there may be other division methods.

[0128] In specific implementations, the network elements shown in this application, such as terminals or network devices, can adopt the communication device shown in Figure 8. Figure 8 shows a possible exemplary block diagram of the communication device involved in the embodiments of this application. As shown in Figure 8, the communication device 900 may include modules or units for implementing the method embodiments described above. In one possible design, the communication device 900 includes a processing unit 902 and a communication unit 903. Optionally, the communication device 900 may also include a storage unit 901 for storing device program code and / or data.

[0129] The communication device 900 can be a terminal-side device in the above embodiments, such as a terminal or a communication module in a terminal, or a circuit or chip in a terminal that is responsible for communication functions.

[0130] For example, in one embodiment, the communication unit 903 is used to send first information, which indicates the completion time of the computing task; the communication unit 903 is also used to receive second information, which indicates the transmission resources of first data, the first data being the data corresponding to the computing task, and the transmission resources of the first data being no earlier than the completion time of the computing task; the processing unit 902 is used to send the first data through the communication unit 903 according to the second information.

[0131] In one possible design, the first information is also used to indicate the amount of data required for the computation task.

[0132] In one possible design, the first piece of information is used to indicate the processing stage of the computational task.

[0133] In one possible design, the processing phase of a computation task is associated with the completion time of the computation task, and / or, the processing phase of a computation task is associated with the amount of data in the computation task.

[0134] In one possible design, the first information is carried in the scheduling request and / or media access control layer signaling.

[0135] In one possible design, when the communication device 900 is a terminal or a communication module within a terminal, the function of the processing unit 902 can be implemented by one or more processors. Specifically, the processor may include a modem chip, or a system-on-a-chip (SoC) chip or a SIP chip containing a modem core. The function of the communication unit 903 can be implemented by transceiver circuitry.

[0136] In one possible design, when the communication device 900 is a circuit or chip in a terminal responsible for communication functions, such as a modem chip or a system-on-a-chip (SoC) or SIP chip containing a modem core, the function of the processing unit 902 can be implemented by a circuit system in the aforementioned chip that includes one or more processors or processor cores. The function of the communication unit 903 can be implemented by an interface circuit or data transceiver circuit on the aforementioned chip.

[0137] In one possible design, when the communication device 900 is a terminal or a processing module within a terminal, the functionality of the processing unit 902 can be implemented by one or more processors. Specifically, the processor may include a GPU, or a system-on-a-chip (SoC) or SIP chip containing a GPU. Alternatively, the processor may include an AI processor, or a SoC or SIP chip containing an AI processor. Or, the processor may include an ASIC, or a SoC or SIP chip containing an ASIC. The functionality of the communication unit 903 can be implemented by transceiver circuitry.

[0138] In one possible design, when the communication device 900 is a circuit or chip in a terminal responsible for processing functions, such as a GPU or a system-on-a-chip (SoC) or SIP chip containing a GPU, an AI processor or a SoC or SIP chip containing an AI processor, or an ASIC or a SoC or SIP chip containing an ASIC, the function of the processing unit 902 can be implemented by a circuit system in the aforementioned chip that includes one or more processors or processor cores. The function of the communication unit 903 can be implemented by interface circuitry or data transceiver circuitry on the aforementioned chip.

[0139] The communication device 900 can be a network-side device as described in the above embodiments. For example, in one embodiment, the communication unit 903 is used to receive first information from the terminal, the processing unit 902 is used to determine second information indicating the transmission resources of the first data based on the first information, and the communication unit 903 is also used to send the second information to the terminal and receive the first data from the terminal.

[0140] It is understood that the division of units in the above-described device is merely a logical functional division. One function can correspond to one functional unit, or two or more functions can be integrated into one functional unit. In actual implementation, all or some units can be integrated onto a single physical entity, or distributed across different physical entities. Furthermore, the aforementioned functional units can be implemented in hardware, software, or a combination of both. Whether a function is executed 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 specific applications, but such implementations should not be considered beyond the scope of this application.

[0141] In one example, the functional unit in any of the above devices may be one or more integrated circuits configured to implement the above methods, such as: one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), or one or more central processing units (CPUs), one or more microcontroller units (MCUs), one or more digital signal processors (DSPs), or one or more field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), or a combination of at least two of these integrated circuit forms.

[0142] In one example, storage unit 901 may include random access memory, flash memory, read-only memory, programmable read-only memory or electrically erasable programmable memory and / or registers, etc.

[0143] Referring to Figure 9, which is a structural schematic diagram of a terminal 1000 provided in an embodiment of this application, the terminal 1000 can correspond to the terminals shown in Figures 1-4 and is used to implement the operation of the terminals in the above embodiments. As shown in Figure 9, the terminal includes: one or more antennas 1010, a radio frequency processing system 1020, and a processor system 1030.

[0144] In the downlink or sidelink direction, the RF processing system 1020 receives RF signals through the antenna 1010 and sends the RF-processed signals to the processor system 1030 for further processing. In the uplink or sidelink direction, the processor system 1030 processes the terminal-side information and sends it to the RF processing system 1020, which then processes the signal and transmits it through the antenna 1010.

[0145] In one example, the RF processing system 1020 serves as the communication interface for external communication of the terminal and may include an RF front end (RFFE) 1021 and an RF transceiver 1022. The RFFE 1021 is primarily used for one or more processing operations, such as shaping, passband selection, or gain adjustment, on the RF signals received by the antenna or those to be transmitted through the antenna. It may include one or more components such as RF switches, duplexers, filters, power amplifiers, antenna tuners, and low-noise amplifiers. The RFFE 1021 can be a circuit system composed of multiple discrete devices or integrated into one or more chips. The RF transceiver 1022 processes the RF signals received by the RFFE into baseband / IF signals for further processing by the processor system 1030, and processes the baseband / IF signals provided by the processor system 1030 into RF signals for transmission to the RFFE 1021. The baseband / IF signals transmitted between the RF transceiver 1022 and the processor system 1030 can be digital or analog signals. The radio frequency transceiver 1022 can be implemented by one or more chips, which are commonly referred to as radio frequency chips (RFICs).

[0146] In one example, processor system 1030 may include one or more processors for processing signals and executing one or more communication protocols. Optionally, processor system 1030 may also include memory 1036. In one example, the one or more processors include at least one baseband processor 1031 (also known as a modem processor). Memory 1036 is used to store data and / or computer program instructions. Optionally, processor system 1030 may also include one or more application processors 1032 for implementing processing of the terminal operating system and application layer. Application processor 1032 may include, for example, a GPU, AI processor, or ASIC. Optionally, processor system 1030 may also include one or more of a voice subsystem 1033, a multimedia subsystem 1034, or an interface circuit 1035. The voice subsystem 1033 is used to process voice signals, the multimedia subsystem 1034 is used to handle multimedia-related operations, such as video encoding / decoding, image processing, etc., and the interface circuit 1035 is used to implement communication with other terminal components, such as a display 1040, an input device 1050, memory 1060, etc. The aforementioned components in the processor system 1030 can communicate with each other via a bus or communication interface circuit.

[0147] In one example, the processor system 1030 can be packaged as a single processor chip, such as a SoC chip or a SIP chip. In another example, the processor system 1030 can be a system composed of multiple chips, for example, the baseband processor 1031 can be packaged as a single chip, or packaged with part or all of the circuitry of the radio frequency processing system into a single chip.

[0148] In one example, memory 1036 can be on-chip memory, i.e., located on the processor system 1030 chip. In another example, memory 1060 can be off-chip memory, i.e. located outside the processor system 1030 chip.

[0149] In one example, the baseband processor 1031 may include one or more processor cores 10311 and interface circuitry 10314. The one or more processor cores 10311 are used to process signals and execute one or more communication protocols. Optionally, the baseband processor 1031 may also include a memory 10312 for storing at least a portion of the corresponding computer program instructions and / or data. In one example, the one or more processor cores 10311 implement the relevant operations in the above method embodiments by executing the computer program instructions stored in the memory 10312. In this application, memory 10312 is used to store corresponding computer program instructions and / or data. This can mean that memory 10312 stores all corresponding computer program instructions and / or data for execution by processor core 10311; or it can mean that memory 10312 stores a portion of corresponding computer program instructions and / or data, including the computer program instructions and / or data currently required to be executed by processor core 10311. Memory 10312 can store different portions of computer program instructions and / or data multiple times for execution by processor core 10311 to implement the relevant operations in the above method embodiments. Interface circuit 10314 serves as a communication interface for communication with other components, such as transmitting signals with radio frequency processing system 1020, communicating with other subsystems and related components of processor system 1030 via bus, such as transmitting data control signals with application processor 1032, and transmitting data or computer program instructions with memory 1036 or memory 1060. Optionally, in order to reduce the load on the processor core, a baseband signal processing circuit 10313 can be set to perform at least some baseband signal processing, including one or more of signal demodulation, modulation, encoding or decoding.

[0150] In one example, the communication device provided in this application may be a terminal 1000, a communication module including a processor system 1030 and a radio frequency system 1020, the processor system 1030, or a baseband processor 1031.

[0151] The processor, processor system, application processor, baseband processor, processor circuit, or processor core mentioned above can be collectively referred to as a processor. The processor may include one or more of the following: central processing unit (CPU), digital signal processor (DSP), microprocessor unit (MPU), microcontroller unit (MCU), graphics processing unit (GPU), field programmable gate array (FPGA), application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), artificial intelligence processor (AI processor), or neural processing unit (NPU).

[0152] The aforementioned memory may include one or more of the following storage media: random access memory (RAM), static random access memory (SRAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), phase-change memory (PCM), resistive random access memory (ReRAM), magnetoresistive random access memory (MRAM), ferroelectric random access memory (FRAM), cache, register, read-only memory (ROM), flash memory, erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), hard disk, etc. In one example, computer program instructions for executing the above embodiments may be stored on non-volatile memory, such as at least a portion of the aforementioned memory 1060 (e.g., one or more of ROM, flash memory, EPROM, or hard disk). When the terminal is running, the corresponding computer program instructions may be partially or wholly loaded onto a memory with a faster transfer speed than the processor, such as at least a portion of memory 1036 and / or memory 10312 (e.g., one or more of RAM, SRAM, DRAM, PCM, RERAM, MRAM, FRAM, cache, or register), for the processor to execute in order to implement the steps in the above method embodiments.

[0153] In one example, the RF transceiver 1022 and the RF front-end 1021 can also be packaged in a single chip. In another example, the RF transceiver 1022, the RF front-end 1021, and the baseband processor 1031 can also be packaged in a single chip.

[0154] This application also provides a communication system for uplink data transmission scenarios. The communication system may include a terminal and a network device. The terminal and network device may have the functionality to perform the steps corresponding to the methods described in the above embodiments.

[0155] This application also provides a computer-readable storage medium. All or part of the processes in the above method embodiments can be implemented by a computer program instructing related hardware. This program can be stored in the computer-readable storage medium, and when executed, it can include the processes of the above method embodiments. The computer-readable storage medium can be a terminal device of any of the foregoing embodiments, such as an internal storage unit including a data sending end and / or a data receiving end, such as a hard disk or memory of the terminal device. The computer-readable storage medium can also be an external storage device of the terminal device, such as a plug-in hard disk, smart media card (SMC), secure digital (SD) card, flash card, etc., equipped on the terminal device. Further, the computer-readable storage medium can include both the internal storage unit and the external storage device of the terminal device. The computer-readable storage medium is used to store the computer program and other programs and data required by the terminal device. The computer-readable storage medium can also be used to temporarily store data that has been output or will be output.

[0156] This application also provides computer instructions. All or part of the processes in the above method embodiments can be executed by computer instructions to instruct related hardware (such as computers, processors, network devices, and terminals). The program can be stored in the aforementioned computer-readable storage medium.

[0157] This application also provides a computer program product that, when run on a computer, causes the above-described method embodiments to be executed.

[0158] This application also provides a chip system. The chip system may be composed of chips or may include chips and other discrete devices, without limitation. The chip system includes a processor and a transceiver. All or part of the processes in the above method embodiments can be completed by this chip system, such as the chip system being used to implement the functions performed by the network devices or terminals in the above method embodiments.

[0159] In one possible design, the chip system further includes a memory for storing program instructions and / or data. When the chip system is running, the processor executes the program instructions stored in the memory to enable the chip system to perform the functions performed by the network device or terminal in the above method embodiments.

[0160] In the embodiments of this application, the processor may be a general-purpose processor, a digital signal processor, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or other programmable logic devices, discrete gate or transistor logic devices, or discrete hardware components, capable of implementing or executing the methods, steps, and logic block diagrams disclosed in the embodiments of this application. The general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor or any conventional processor. The steps of the methods disclosed in the embodiments of this application can be directly manifested as being executed by a hardware processor, or executed by a combination of hardware and software modules within the processor.

[0161] In the embodiments of this application, the memory can be non-volatile memory, such as a hard disk drive (HDD) or a solid-state drive (SSD), or it can be volatile memory, such as random-access memory (RAM). Memory is any other medium capable of carrying or storing desired program code in the form of instructions or data structures, and accessible by a computer, but is not limited thereto. The memory in the embodiments of this application can also be a circuit or any other device capable of implementing storage functions, used to store instructions and / or data.

[0162] It should be noted that the terms "first" and "second," etc., in the specification, claims, and drawings of this application are used to distinguish different objects, not to describe a specific order. Furthermore, the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a process, method, system, product, or apparatus that includes a series of steps or units is not limited to the listed steps or units, but may optionally include steps or units not listed, or may optionally include other steps or units inherent to these processes, methods, products, or apparatuses.

[0163] It should be understood that in the embodiments of this application, "at least one (item)" refers to one or more, "more than one" refers to two or more, "at least two (items)" refers to two or three or more, and "and / or" is used to describe the association relationship of related objects, indicating that there can be three relationships. For example, "A and / or B" can represent: only A exists, only B exists, and A and B exist simultaneously, where A and B can be singular or plural. The character " / " generally indicates that the related objects before and after are in an "or" relationship. "At least one (item) 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 (item) of a, b, or c can represent: a, b, c, "a and b", "a and c", "b and c", or "a and b and c", where a, b, and c can be single or multiple. It should be understood that in the embodiments of this application, "B corresponding to A" means that B is associated with A. For example, B can be determined based on A. It should also be understood that determining B based on A does not mean determining B solely based on A; B can also be determined based on A and / or other information. Furthermore, the term "connection" in the embodiments of this application refers to various connection methods, such as direct or indirect connections, to achieve communication between devices; the embodiments of this application do not impose any limitations on this.

[0164] Unless otherwise specified, the term "transmission" in the embodiments of this application refers to bidirectional transmission, encompassing the actions of sending and / or receiving. Specifically, "transmission" in the embodiments of this application includes sending data, receiving data, or both sending and receiving data. In other words, data transmission here includes uplink and / or downlink data transmission. Data may include channels and / or signals; uplink data transmission refers to uplink channel and / or uplink signal transmission, and downlink data transmission refers to downlink channel and / or downlink signal transmission. The terms "network" and "system" in the embodiments of this application refer to the same concept; a communication system is a communication network.

[0165] Through the above description of the embodiments, those skilled in the art can clearly understand that, for the sake of convenience and brevity, only the division of the above functional modules is used as an example. In actual applications, the above functions can be assigned to different functional modules as needed, that is, the internal structure of the device can be divided into different functional modules to complete all or part of the functions described above.

[0166] In the several embodiments provided in this application, it should be understood that the disclosed apparatus and methods can be implemented in other ways. For example, the apparatus embodiments described above are merely illustrative; for instance, the division of modules or units is only a logical functional division, and in actual implementation, there may be other division methods. For example, multiple units or components may be combined or integrated into another device, or some features may be ignored or not executed. Furthermore, the mutual coupling or direct coupling or communication connection shown or discussed may be through some interfaces; the indirect coupling or communication connection between devices or units may be electrical, mechanical, or other forms.

[0167] The units described as separate components may or may not be physically separate. A component shown as a unit can be one or more physical units; that is, it can be located in one place or distributed in multiple different locations. Some or all of the units can be selected to achieve the purpose of this embodiment according to actual needs.

[0168] Furthermore, the functional units in the various embodiments of this application can be integrated into one processing unit, or each unit can exist physically separately, or two or more units can be integrated into one unit. The integrated unit can be implemented in hardware or as a software functional unit. If the integrated unit is implemented as a software functional unit and sold or used as an independent product, it can be stored in a readable storage medium. Based on this understanding, the technical solution of the embodiments of this application, in essence, or the part that contributes to the prior art, or all or part of the technical solution, can be embodied in the form of a software product. This software product is stored in a storage medium and includes several instructions to cause a device, such as a microcontroller, chip, or processor, to execute all or part of the steps of the methods described in the various embodiments of this application. The aforementioned storage medium includes various media capable of storing program code, such as USB flash drives, portable hard drives, ROM, RAM, magnetic disks, or optical disks.

[0169] Those skilled in the art will understand that embodiments of this application can be provided as methods, systems, or computer program products. Therefore, this application can take the form of a completely hardware embodiment, a completely software embodiment, or an embodiment combining software and hardware aspects. Furthermore, this application can take the form of a computer program product embodied on one or more computer-usable storage media (including, but not limited to, disk storage, optical storage, etc.) containing computer-usable program code.

[0170] This application is described with reference to flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams of methods, apparatus (systems), and computer program products according to this application. It should be understood that each block of the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams, and combinations of blocks in the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams, can be implemented by computer program instructions. These computer program instructions can be provided to a processor of a general-purpose computer, special-purpose computer, embedded processor, or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such that the instructions, which execute via the processor of the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus, create means for implementing the functions specified in one or more blocks of the flowchart illustrations and / or one or more blocks of the block diagrams.

[0171] These computer program instructions may also be stored in a computer-readable storage medium that can direct a computer or other programmable data processing device to function in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the computer-readable storage medium produce an article of manufacture including instruction means that implement the functions specified in one or more flowcharts and / or one or more block diagrams.

[0172] These computer program instructions may also be loaded onto a computer or other programmable data processing apparatus to cause a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer or other programmable apparatus to produce a computer-implemented process, such that the instructions, which execute on the computer or other programmable apparatus, provide steps for implementing the functions specified in one or more flowcharts and / or one or more block diagrams.

Claims

1. A communication method characterized by comprising: include: Send a first message, which is used to indicate the completion time of the computation task; Receive second information, the second information being used to indicate the transmission resources of the first data, the first data being the data corresponding to the computing task, and the transmission resources of the first data being no earlier than the completion time of the computing task in time; The first data is sent according to the second information.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein, The first information is also used to indicate the amount of data in the computing task.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The first information is used to indicate the processing stage of the computing task.

4. The method of claim 3, wherein, The processing phase of the computing task is associated with the completion time of the computing task, and / or the processing phase of the computing task is associated with the amount of data in the computing task.

5. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The first information is carried in the scheduling request and / or media access control layer signaling.

6. A communication device, characterized by include: A communication unit is used to send first information, which indicates the completion time of the computation task; The communication unit is further configured to receive second information, the second information being used to indicate the transmission resources of the first data, the first data being the data corresponding to the computing task, and the transmission resources of the first data being no earlier than the completion time of the computing task. A processing unit is configured to send the first data through the communication unit based on the second information.

7. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein, The first information is also used to indicate the amount of data in the computing task.

8. The apparatus of claim 6 or 7, wherein, The first information is used to indicate the processing stage of the computing task.

9. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein, The processing phase of the computing task is associated with the completion time of the computing task, and / or the processing phase of the computing task is associated with the amount of data in the computing task.

10. The device according to any of claims 6-9, characterized in that The first information is carried in the scheduling request and / or media access control layer signaling.

11. A computer readable storage medium, characterized in that, The computer-readable storage medium stores computer instructions that, when executed, cause the method described in any one of claims 1-5 to be performed.

12. A computer program product, characterised in that, When it is run on a computer, it causes the method described in any one of claims 1-5 to be performed.

13. A communications device, characterized by The device includes one or more processors and interface circuitry, wherein the one or more processors are coupled to a memory for storing computer programs or instructions, which, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the device to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1-5.

14. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein, The interface circuit is used to implement communication functions within the device and / or communication functions between the device and other devices or components.

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