Communication method, device and system, storage medium, and program product

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a communication method, device and system, a storage medium, and a program product. The communication method comprises: sending first information, the first information being used for indicating that a first network node supports a sensing control function. The present disclosure achieves the selection of a suitable sensing control node for executing control of a sensing service, thereby improving communication efficiency.

Description

Communication methods, devices, systems, storage media and software products Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of communication technology, and in particular to communication methods, devices, systems, storage media, and program products. Background Technology

[0002] During the transmission of radio waves, they may be blocked by some objects (hereinafter referred to as reflectors). The wireless signal transmitter emits radio waves, and the wireless signal receiver receives the radio waves and compares the transmitted and received signals, or records the historical changes of the received signal, thereby obtaining some information about the reflector.

[0003] Summary of the Invention

[0004] How to select the appropriate node to execute the control of the perception service.

[0005] This disclosure provides communication methods, devices, systems, storage media, and program products.

[0006] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, a communication method is proposed, the method comprising: sending first information, the first information being used to indicate that the first network node supports a sensing control function.

[0007] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, a communication method is proposed, the method comprising: receiving first information sent by a first network node, the first information being used to indicate that the first network node supports a sensing control function.

[0008] According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, a communication method is proposed, the method comprising: receiving first information sent by a first network node, the first information being used to indicate that the first network node supports a sensing control function.

[0009] According to a fourth aspect of the embodiments of this disclosure, a communication device is provided for performing the communication method described in any one of the first, second, and third aspects.

[0010] According to a fifth aspect of the present disclosure, a communication system is provided, including a first network node, a second network node, and a third network node, wherein the first network node is configured to implement the communication method described in the first aspect, the second network node is configured to implement the communication method described in the second aspect, and the third network node is configured to implement the communication method described in the third aspect.

[0011] According to a sixth aspect of the present disclosure, a storage medium is provided that stores instructions which, when executed on a communication device, cause the communication device to perform a communication method as described in the first aspect and any one thereof, or the second aspect and any one thereof.

[0012] According to a seventh aspect of the present disclosure, a program product is provided, comprising at least one of a program and instructions, wherein the program and instructions, when executed by a communication device, implement the communication method described in any one of the first, second, and third aspects.

[0013] This disclosure transmits first information through a first network node to instruct the first network node to support the sensing control function, so that the first network node can also be selected as a sensing control node according to the sensing service request, thereby realizing the selection of a suitable sensing control node to perform sensing service control and improving communication efficiency. Attached Figure Description

[0014] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this disclosure, the accompanying drawings required for the description of the embodiments are introduced below. The following drawings are only some embodiments of this disclosure and do not impose specific limitations on the protection scope of this disclosure.

[0015] Figure 1a is a schematic diagram of a communication system architecture according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] Figure 1b is a schematic diagram of a sensing reference architecture.

[0017] Figure 1c is a schematic diagram of a sensing reference architecture.

[0018] Figure 1d is a schematic diagram of a sensing reference architecture.

[0019] Figure 2a is a schematic diagram of a communication method interaction according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] Figure 2b is a schematic diagram of a communication system architecture.

[0021] Figure 2c is a schematic diagram of a communication system architecture.

[0022] Figure 2d is a schematic diagram of a communication method interaction according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] Figure 2e is a schematic diagram of a communication system architecture.

[0024] Figure 3 is an interactive schematic diagram of a communication method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] Figure 4a is an interactive schematic diagram of a communication method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] Figure 4b is an interactive schematic diagram of a communication method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] Figure 4c is an interactive schematic diagram of a communication method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] Figure 4d is an interactive schematic diagram of a communication method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0029] Figure 4e is an interactive schematic diagram of a communication method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0030] Figure 4f is an interactive schematic diagram of a communication method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] Figure 5a is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first network node proposed in an embodiment of this disclosure.

[0032] Figure 5b is a schematic diagram of the structure of the second network node proposed in an embodiment of this disclosure.

[0033] Figure 5c is a schematic diagram of the structure of the third network node proposed in an embodiment of this disclosure.

[0034] Figure 6a is a schematic diagram of the structure of the communication device proposed in an embodiment of this disclosure.

[0035] Figure 6b is a schematic diagram of the chip structure proposed in an embodiment of this disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0036] This disclosure provides communication methods, devices, systems, storage media, and program products.

[0037] In a first aspect, embodiments of this disclosure propose a communication method, the method comprising: sending first information, the first information being used to indicate that the first network node supports a sensing control function.

[0038] In the above embodiments, the first network node sends first information to indicate that the first network node supports the sensing control function, so that the first network node can also be selected as a sensing control node according to the sensing service request, so as to realize the selection of a suitable sensing control node to perform sensing service control and improve communication efficiency.

[0039] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the first information includes at least one of the following: a first identifier, the first identifier being used to identify the sensing control function; a second identifier, the second identifier being used to identify that the first network node supports the sensing control function; indication information for indicating whether the sensing control function is enabled; the sensing area supported by the sensing control function; the sensing type supported by the sensing control function; the load of the sensing control function; the quality of service supported by the sensing control function; and the sensing mode supported by the sensing control function.

[0040] In the above embodiments, the first information includes at least one of the above-mentioned features, which can indicate the specific details of the sensing and control functions supported by the first network node, such as the supported sensing type, sensing area, sensing mode, quality of service, etc., and load, so that the node receiving the first information can select a suitable sensing service control node to improve communication efficiency. The second identifier included in the first information can indicate that the first network node supports sensing and control functions. The first identifier included in the first information can be associated with other information or with sensing results, so that other nodes can manage and control the sensing and control functions of the first network node, thereby improving communication efficiency.

[0041] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, sending the first information includes: sending the first information to a second network node, the second network node being used to receive the first message and select a network node that supports the perception control function as the control node for the perception service, the first message being used to request the perception service.

[0042] In the above embodiments, the first network node can send first information to the second network node, which is the network node that receives the first message. This allows the second network node to select the first network node as the control node for the sensing service after receiving the first message, thereby saving energy consumption of the second network node, effectively and reasonably allocating resources among network nodes, and improving the efficiency of the communication system.

[0043] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the method further includes: receiving a first message sent by the second network node.

[0044] In the above embodiments, the first network node can receive a first message from the second network node so as to manage the sensing service, share the business of the second network node, achieve balanced resource allocation, and improve the efficiency of the communication system.

[0045] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the first information is carried by a second message, which is a protocol message for communication between the access network and the core network.

[0046] In the above embodiments, the first information can be carried by protocol messages between the access network and the core network to avoid wasting signaling resources and improve efficiency.

[0047] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the second message includes at least one of the following: an interface connection establishment request message; a first network node configuration update message; and a second network node configuration update confirmation message.

[0048] In the above embodiments, the second message can be at least one of the above-mentioned methods to improve flexibility and adapt to different situations, so that the first message can be sent efficiently.

[0049] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, before sending the first information to the second network node, the method further includes: receiving a third message sent by the second network node, the third message being used to request the first network node to send the first information.

[0050] In the above embodiments, the second network node may also actively request the first network node to send the first information so that the sensing service can be allocated to the first network node in a timely manner.

[0051] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the first information is carried by a response message of the third message.

[0052] In the above embodiments, the first information can be carried by the response message of the third message sent by the second network node to save signaling.

[0053] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the second network node includes at least one of the following: an access network device (RAN); an access and mobility management function (AMF); and a sensing function (SF).

[0054] In the above embodiments, the second network node may include at least one of the above-described features to adapt to different system architectures and improve system efficiency.

[0055] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, sending the first information includes: sending the first information to a third network node, the third network node being used to provide feedback to a fourth network node about a network node that supports the perception control function, the fourth network node being used to generate a first message and select a network node that supports the perception control function as the control node for the perception service, and the first message being used to request the perception service.

[0056] In the above embodiments, the first network node can send first information to the third network node, which is a node that can register functions. The first network node sends the first information to the third network node in order to register the perception and control functions it supports, so that it can directly receive the first message sent from the fourth network node in the future.

[0057] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the method further includes: receiving a first message sent by the fourth network node.

[0058] In the above embodiment, the first network node receives the first message sent by the fourth network node to efficiently manage the sensing service.

[0059] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the first information is carried by a fourth message, which is used to request the registration of the perception control function of the first network node.

[0060] In the above embodiments, the first information can be carried by the fourth message, that is, by the message of the registration function, in order to save signaling consumption.

[0061] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the third network node is a network storage function (NRF).

[0062] In the above embodiments, the third network node can be an NRF to improve the efficiency of the communication system.

[0063] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the fourth network node includes at least one of the following: a sensing service function (NF) application function (AF); an access point (AP); a service-oriented access network device; a core network device; and a service-oriented terminal device.

[0064] In the above embodiments, the fourth network node can be at least one of the above-mentioned features to improve flexibility, adapt to different system architectures, and improve the efficiency of the communication system.

[0065] In a second aspect, a communication method is provided, the method comprising: receiving first information sent by a first network node, the first information being used to indicate that the first network node supports a sensing control function.

[0066] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, the first information includes at least one of the following: a first identifier, the first identifier being used to identify the sensing control function; a second identifier, the second identifier being used to identify that the first network node supports the sensing control function; indication information for indicating whether the sensing control function is enabled; the sensing area supported by the sensing control function; the sensing type supported by the sensing control function; the load of the sensing control function; the quality of service supported by the sensing control function; and the sensing mode supported by the sensing control function.

[0067] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, the method further includes: receiving a first message sent by a fourth network node, and selecting a network node that supports the perception control function as the control node for the perception service, wherein the first message is used to request the perception service.

[0068] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, the node selected by the second network node to support the sensing control function is the first network node, and the method further includes: sending a first message to the first network node.

[0069] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, the first information is carried by a second message, which is a protocol message for communication between the access network and the core network.

[0070] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, the second message includes at least one of the following: an interface connection establishment request message; a first network node configuration update message; and a second network node configuration update confirmation message.

[0071] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, before receiving the first information, the method further includes: sending a third message to the first network node, the third message being used to request the first network node to send the first information.

[0072] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, the first information is carried by a response message of the third message.

[0073] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, the second network node includes at least one of the following: an access network device (RAN); an access and mobility management function (AMF); and a sensing function (SF).

[0074] Thirdly, a communication method is provided, the method comprising: receiving first information sent by a first network node, the first information being used to indicate that the first network node supports a sensing control function.

[0075] In conjunction with some embodiments of the third aspect, in some embodiments, the first information includes at least one of the following: a first identifier, the first identifier being used to identify the sensing control function; a second identifier, the second identifier being used to identify that the first network node supports the sensing control function; indication information for indicating whether the sensing control function is enabled; the sensing area supported by the sensing control function; the sensing type supported by the sensing control function; the load of the sensing control function; the quality of service supported by the sensing control function; and the sensing mode supported by the sensing control function.

[0076] In conjunction with some embodiments of the third aspect, in some embodiments, the first information is carried by a fourth message, which is used to request the registration of the perception control function of the first network node.

[0077] In some embodiments, in conjunction with the third aspect, the method further includes: sending the second information to a fourth network node, the second information being used to indicate network nodes that support sensing control functions, the network nodes supporting sensing control functions including the first network node.

[0078] In conjunction with some embodiments of the third aspect, in some embodiments, the third network node is a network storage function (NRF).

[0079] In conjunction with some embodiments of the third aspect, in some embodiments, the fourth network node includes at least one of the following: a sensing service function (NF) application function (AF); an access point (AP); a service-oriented access network device; a core network device; and a service-oriented terminal device.

[0080] Fourthly, a communication device is proposed, which is used to perform the communication method described in any one of the first, second, and third aspects.

[0081] Fifthly, a communication system is provided, comprising a first network node, a second network node, and a third network node, wherein the first network node is configured to implement the communication method described in the first aspect, the second network node is configured to implement the communication method described in the second aspect, and the third network node is configured to implement the communication method described in the third aspect.

[0082] In a sixth aspect, a storage medium is provided that stores instructions, which, when executed on a communication device, cause the communication device to perform a communication method as described in the first aspect and any one thereof, or the second aspect and any one thereof.

[0083] In a seventh aspect, a program product is provided, comprising at least one of a program and instructions, wherein the program and instructions, when executed by a communication device, implement the communication method described in any one of the first, second, and third aspects.

[0084] Eighthly, embodiments of this disclosure provide a computer program that, when run on a computer, causes the computer to perform the methods described in an optional implementation of the first or second aspect.

[0085] Ninthly, embodiments of this disclosure provide a chip or chip system. The chip or chip system includes processing circuitry configured to perform the method described according to an optional implementation of the first or second aspect above.

[0086] It is understood that the terminals, access network devices, network nodes, network elements, core network devices, communication systems, storage media, program products, computer programs, chips, or chip systems involved in the embodiments of this disclosure are all used to execute the methods proposed in the embodiments of this disclosure. Therefore, the beneficial effects that can be achieved can be referred to the beneficial effects in the corresponding methods, and will not be repeated here.

[0087] This disclosure provides communication methods, devices, systems, storage media, and program products. In some embodiments, the terms "communication method" and "information processing method" can be used interchangeably, as can the terms "communication device" and "information processing device" and "communication device," and the terms "information processing system" and "communication system."

[0088] This disclosure is not exhaustive, but merely illustrative of some embodiments, and is not intended to limit the scope of protection of this disclosure. Unless otherwise specified, each step in a particular embodiment can be implemented as an independent embodiment, and the steps can be arbitrarily combined. For example, a solution after removing some steps in a particular embodiment can also be implemented as an independent embodiment, and the order of the steps in a particular embodiment can be arbitrarily interchanged. Furthermore, the optional implementation methods in a particular embodiment can be arbitrarily combined; moreover, the embodiments can be arbitrarily combined, for example, some or all steps of different embodiments can be arbitrarily combined, and a particular embodiment can be arbitrarily combined with the optional implementation methods of other embodiments. In all embodiments of this disclosure, unless otherwise specified or logically conflicting, the terminology and / or descriptions between the embodiments are consistent and can be mutually referenced. Technical features in different embodiments can be combined to form new embodiments based on their inherent logical relationships.

[0089] The terminology used in the embodiments of this disclosure is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure.

[0090] In this embodiment of the disclosure, unless otherwise stated, elements expressed in the singular form, such as "a," "an," "the," "the," "the," "the," "the," "the," "this," etc., can mean "one and only one," or "one or more," "at least one," etc. For example, when using articles such as "a," "an," "the," etc. in translation, the noun following the article can be understood as either a singular expression or a plural expression.

[0091] In the embodiments disclosed herein, "multiple" refers to two or more.

[0092] In some embodiments, the terms “at least one of A or B, at least one of A and B”, “one or more”, “a plurality of”, “multiple”, etc., may be used interchangeably.

[0093] In some embodiments, the notation "at least one of A and B", "A and / or B", "A in one case, B in another", "in response to one case A, in response to another case B", etc., may include the following technical solutions depending on the situation: in some embodiments, A (execute A regardless of whether there is a branch B); in some embodiments, B (execute B regardless of whether there is a branch A); in some embodiments, execution is selected from A and B (A and B are selectively executed); in some embodiments, both A and B are executed. The same applies when there are more branches such as A, B, C, etc.

[0094] In some embodiments, the notation "A or B" may include the following technical solutions, depending on the situation: in some embodiments, A (execute A regardless of whether a branch B exists); in some embodiments, B (execute B regardless of whether a branch A exists); in some embodiments, execution is selected from A and B (A and B are selectively executed). The same applies when there are more branches such as A, B, and C.

[0095] The prefixes "first," "second," etc., used in the embodiments of this disclosure are merely for distinguishing different descriptive objects and do not impose restrictions on the position, order, priority, quantity, or content of the descriptive objects. The description of the descriptive objects is found in the claims or the context of the embodiments, and the use of prefixes should not constitute unnecessary restrictions. For example, if the descriptive object is a "field," the ordinal numbers preceding "field" in "first field" and "second field" do not restrict the position or order of the "fields." "First" and "second" do not restrict whether the "fields" they modify are in the same message, nor do they restrict the order of "first field" and "second field." Similarly, if the descriptive object is a "level," the ordinal numbers preceding "level" in "first level" and "second level" do not restrict the priority between "levels." Furthermore, the number of descriptive objects is not limited by ordinal numbers and can be one or more. For example, in "first device," the number of "devices" can be one or more. Furthermore, the objects modified by different prefixes can be the same or different. For example, if the object being described is "device", then "first device" and "second device" can be the same device or different devices, and their types can be the same or different. Similarly, if the object being described is "information", then "first information" and "second information" can be the same information or different information, and their content can be the same or different.

[0096] In some embodiments, “including A,” “containing A,” “for indicating A,” and “carrying A” can be interpreted as directly carrying A or indirectly indicating A.

[0097] In some embodiments, terms such as "time / frequency" and "time-frequency domain" refer to the time domain and / or frequency domain.

[0098] In some embodiments, terms such as “in response to…”, “in response to determining…”, “in the case of…”, “when…”, “when…”, “if…”, etc. can be used interchangeably. These descriptions all refer to the device making a corresponding action under certain objective circumstances. They do not necessarily limit the time, nor do they require the device to make a judgment action when implementing it, nor do they mean that there must be other limitations.

[0099] In some embodiments, the terms “greater than,” “greater than or equal to,” “not less than,” “more than,” “more than or equal to,” “not less than,” “higher than,” “higher than or equal to,” “not lower than,” and “above” can be used interchangeably, as can the terms “less than,” “less than or equal to,” “not greater than,” “less than,” “less than or equal to,” “not more than,” “lower than,” “lower than or equal to,” “not higher than,” and “below”.

[0100] In some embodiments, devices, etc., may be interpreted as physical or virtual, and their names are not limited to those described in the embodiments. Terms such as “device,” “equipment,” “circuit,” “network element,” “network function,” “network device,” “function,” “node,” “unit,” “section,” “system,” “network,” “chip,” “chip system,” “entity,” and “subject” are interchangeable.

[0101] In some embodiments, "network" can be interpreted as devices included in a network (e.g., access network devices, core network devices, etc.).

[0102] In some embodiments, the terms "access network device (AN device)," "radio access network device (RAN device)," "base station (BS)," "radio base station," "fixed station," "node," "access point," "transmission point (TP)," "reception point (RP)," "transmission / reception point (TRP)," "panel," "antenna panel," "antenna array," "cell," "macro cell," "small cell," "femto cell," "pico cell," "sector," "cell group," "serving cell," "carrier," "component carrier," and "bandwidth part (BWP)" can be used interchangeably.

[0103] In some embodiments, the terms "terminal", "terminal device", "user equipment (UE)", "user terminal", "mobile station (MS)", "mobile terminal (MT)", "subscriber station", "mobile unit", "subscriber unit", "wireless unit", "remote unit", "mobile device", "wireless device", "wireless communication device", "remote device", "mobile subscriber station", "access terminal", "mobile terminal", "wireless terminal", "remote terminal", "handset", "user agent", "mobile client", and "client" can be used interchangeably.

[0104] In some embodiments, access network devices, core network devices, or network devices can be replaced by terminals. For example, embodiments of this disclosure can also be applied to structures where communication between access network devices, core network devices, or network devices and terminals is replaced by communication between multiple terminals (e.g., device-to-device (D2D), vehicle-to-everything (V2X), etc.). In this case, the structure can also be configured such that the terminal has all or part of the functions of the access network device. Furthermore, terms such as "uplink" and "downlink" can be replaced with terms corresponding to communication between terminals (e.g., "sidelink"). For example, uplink channel, downlink channel, etc., can be replaced with sidelink channel, and uplink link, downlink, etc., can be replaced with sidelink link.

[0105] In some embodiments, the terminal may be replaced by an access network device, a core network device, or a network device. In this case, the access network device, core network device, or network device may also be configured to have all or some of the functions of the terminal.

[0106] In some embodiments, the acquisition of data, information, etc., may comply with the laws and regulations of the country where the location is situated.

[0107] In some embodiments, data, information, etc., may be obtained with the user's consent.

[0108] Furthermore, each element, each row, or each column in the table of this disclosure can be implemented as an independent embodiment, and any combination of any element, any row, or any column can also be implemented as an independent embodiment.

[0109] Figure 1a is a schematic diagram of a communication system architecture according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0110] As shown in Figure 1a, the communication system 100 includes at least one of a first network node 101, a second network node 102, a third network node 103, and a fourth network node 104.

[0111] In some embodiments, the first network node may be an access network device (RAN), but is not limited thereto.

[0112] In some embodiments, the second network node may be a core network device, such as AMF or SF, but is not limited thereto.

[0113] In some embodiments, the third network node may be a Network Repository Function (NRF), but is not limited thereto.

[0114] In some embodiments, the fourth network node may be at least one of the following: sensing service function (SSNF); AF; AP; service-oriented access network equipment; core network equipment; service-oriented terminal equipment.

[0115] In some embodiments, the communication system 100 may further include a terminal.

[0116] In some embodiments, the terminal includes, but is not limited to, at least one of the following: mobile phone, wearable device, Internet of Things device, car with communication function, smart car, tablet computer, computer with wireless transceiver function, virtual reality (VR) terminal device, augmented reality (AR) terminal device, wireless terminal device in industrial control, wireless terminal device in self-driving, wireless terminal device in remote medical surgery, wireless terminal device in smart grid, wireless terminal device in transportation safety, wireless terminal device in smart city, and wireless terminal device in smart home.

[0117] In some embodiments, the access network device is, for example, a node or device that connects a terminal to a wireless network. The access network device may include at least one of the following in a 5G communication system: evolved Node B (eNB), next-generation eNB (ng-eNB), next-generation Node B (gNB), node B (NB), home node B (HNB), home evolved node B (HeNB), radio backhaul device, radio network controller (RNC), base station controller (BSC), base transceiver station (BTS), base band unit (BBU), mobile switching center, base station in a 6G communication system, open RAN, cloud RAN, base station in other communication systems, and access node in a Wi-Fi system, but is not limited thereto.

[0118] In some embodiments, the technical solutions of this disclosure can be applied to the Open RAN architecture. In this case, the interfaces between or within access network devices involved in the embodiments of this disclosure can be transformed into internal interfaces of Open RAN. The processes and information interactions between these internal interfaces can be implemented by software or programs.

[0119] In some embodiments, the access network device may be composed of a central unit (CU) and a distributed unit (DU). The CU may also be called a control unit. The CU-DU structure can separate the protocol layer of the access network device. Some of the protocol layer functions are centrally controlled by the CU, while the remaining part or all of the protocol layer functions are distributed in the DU and centrally controlled by the CU. However, this is not the only possibility.

[0120] In some embodiments, the core network device may be a single device, and the network elements of the device may include second network node 102, third network node 103, and fourth network node 104, etc., or it may be multiple devices or a group of devices, each including all or some of the second network node 102, third network node 103, and fourth network node 104, etc. The network elements may be virtual or physical. The core network may include, for example, at least one of the Evolved Packet Core (EPC), 5G Core Network (5GCN), and Next Generation Core (NGC).

[0121] It is understood that the communication system described in this disclosure is for the purpose of more clearly illustrating the technical solutions of this disclosure, and does not constitute a limitation on the technical solutions proposed in this disclosure. As those skilled in the art will know, with the evolution of system architecture and the emergence of new business scenarios, the technical solutions proposed in this disclosure are also applicable to similar technical problems.

[0122] The following embodiments of this disclosure can be applied to the communication system 100 shown in FIG1a, or to some of the main bodies, but are not limited thereto. The main bodies shown in FIG1a are illustrative. The communication system may include all or some of the main bodies in FIG1a, or it may include other main bodies outside of FIG1a. The number and form of each main body are arbitrary. Each main body may be physical or virtual. The connection relationship between the main bodies is illustrative. The main bodies may not be connected or may be connected. The connection may be in any way, such as direct connection or indirect connection, wired connection or wireless connection.

[0123] The embodiments disclosed herein can be applied to Long Term Evolution (LTE), LTE-Advanced (LTE-A), LTE-Beyond (LTE-B), SUPER 3G, IMT-Advanced, 4th generation mobile communication system (4G), 5th generation mobile communication system (5G), 5G new radio (NR), Future Radio Access (FRA), New-Radio Access Technology (RAT), New Radio (NR), New radio access (NX), Future generation radio access (FX), Global System for Mobile communications (GSM), CDMA2000, Ultra Mobile Broadband (UMB), IEEE 802.11 (Wi-Fi), IEEE 802.16 (WiMAX), and IEEE 802.20, Ultra-Wideband (UWB), Bluetooth (a registered trademark), Public Land Mobile Network (PLMN) networks, Device-to-Device (D2D) systems, Machine-to-Machine (M2M) systems, Internet of Things (IoT) systems, Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) systems, systems utilizing other communication methods, and next-generation systems built upon them, etc. Furthermore, multiple systems can be combined (e.g., a combination of LTE or LTE-A with 5G).

[0124] In some embodiments, wireless sensing is a technology that uses wireless communication to acquire, detect, analyze, and transmit information about the state, behavior, or characteristics of an environment or object. For example, a wireless signal transmitter emits radio waves, and a wireless signal receiver receives them. During the transmission of radio waves, the transmission may be blocked by objects (hereinafter referred to as reflectors), resulting in wireless transmission effects such as reflection, diffraction, transmission, phase change, Doppler shift, and signal intensity changes. The wireless signal receiver receives the radio waves and compares the transmitted and received signals, or records the historical changes in the received signal, thereby acquiring information about the reflector. This information about the reflector may include:

[0125] Coordinate information (e.g., coordinates relative to the wireless signal receiver (e.g., distance, horizontal angle, and vertical angle));

[0126] Speed ​​information (e.g., moving speed and direction of movement relative to the wireless signal receiver);

[0127] Behavioral pattern information (e.g., running, walking, approaching, falling, swinging, etc.); or weather information (e.g., rain, snow, etc.); or traffic information (e.g., congestion, accidents, etc.).

[0128] In some embodiments, in a wireless network (e.g., a cellular network), the wireless signal transmitter can be at least one of the following:

[0129] Base station;

[0130] Wireless access points (e.g., WiFi access points (APs));

[0131] terminal.

[0132] In some embodiments, the wireless signal receiver may be at least one of the following:

[0133] Base station;

[0134] Wireless access point;

[0135] terminal.

[0136] In some embodiments, the wireless signal transmitter and the wireless signal receiver may be from the same device or different devices. For example:

[0137] 1) Base station A transmits, base station B receives.

[0138] 2) Base station A transmits, base station A receives.

[0139] 3) Terminal A sends, terminal B receives.

[0140] 4) Terminal A sends, Terminal A receives.

[0141] 5) Base station A transmits, terminal A receives.

[0142] 6) Terminal A transmits, base station A receives.

[0143] In some embodiments, the sensing reference architecture may include at least three of the following: the sensing function is deployed on the core network (CN) side; the sensing element (SF) is deployed on the CN side, and the centralized unit (CU) and user plane (UP) are separated; the sensing element (SF) is deployed on the radio access network (RAN) side as a central control node.

[0144] Figure 1b illustrates a schematic diagram of a perception reference architecture. In Figure 1b, the SF is deployed on the CN side. The SF connects to the AMF via Network Slice (NS) 1, to Unified Data Management (UDM) via NS3, to Network Data Analytics Function (NWDAF) via NS4, to Location Management Function (LMF) via NS6, to Policy Control Function (PCF) via NS5, to Network Element Function (NEF) via NS2, and to User Port Function (UPF) via NS7. The PCF and NEF are connected via the Network Function Node Inter-Node Communication Interface 5 (N5), and the NEF and Application Function (AF) are connected via N33. The AMF and RAN support are connected via N2, and the AMF and UE are connected via N1. The RAN and UPF can also be connected.

[0145] Figure 1c shows a schematic diagram of a sensing reference architecture. Similar to Figure 1b, the CU and UP are separated. That is, the SF and UPF do not communicate directly with each other. Instead, the SF is connected to the sensing data plane function through NS7, and the sensing control plane function is connected to the UPF through NS8.

[0146] Figure 1d illustrates a perception reference architecture. In Figure 1d, the SF (Sensitive Controller) acts as a central control node deployed on the RAN side. The SF connects to the RAN via NS1, to the AMF via NS2, to the NWDAF via NS4, and to the NEF via NS3. The NEF connects to the AF via N33, and connections can also exist between the RAN and the UE (User Equipment).

[0147] In some embodiments, the SF is a core network element responsible for determining the sensing mode, sensing nodes, sensing measurement configuration, and other functions; the gNB is responsible for executing specific sensing functions.

[0148] In some embodiments, the gNB can perform some or all of the functions of the SF, including calculating sensing results and triggering neighboring base stations to track targets. Furthermore, considering the interference of sensing signals between different base stations, the RAN can more easily sense air interface resources and allocate them appropriately and in a timely manner. To avoid interference, the RAN can perform some sensing control functions (e.g., air interface sensing resource allocation). Simultaneously, to reduce the amount of data transmitted during sensing data transmission, the RAN can perform preprocessing when reporting sensing data to reduce data transmission overhead. For example, sensing data preprocessing operations can involve processing raw signal information into point set information or sensing target information, and preprocessing operations can also include aggregating sensing data from multiple sensing nodes for processing to obtain more accurate sensing results. For example, as shown in Figure 1d, the RAN may include new logical functional units, such as a Sensing Unit, for performing sensing control functions and data preprocessing functions. Sensing control functions within the base station help improve sensing efficiency. Hereinafter, the sensing control function on the base station side can be referred to as the RAN sensing controller (RSC).

[0149] In some embodiments, RSC may have the following functions:

[0150] It manages the sensing services in its service area, for example, it can manage its own service requests (e.g., sensor-assisted communication), service requests from UEs served by the RAN node, service requests from other RAN nodes, and service requests from the CN (e.g., AMF).

[0151] Determine the sensing mode;

[0152] Sensing result processing;

[0153] Interact with the UE served by the RAN node for sensing;

[0154] Interact with other RAN nodes to perform sensing;

[0155] Interact with AMF.

[0156] In some embodiments, when multiple SFs (including the SF in the core network and the RSC in the RAN) are deployed in different locations, the problem to be solved is how to select the appropriate sensing control node to perform sensing service control based on the sensing service request.

[0157] Therefore, this disclosure provides a communication method in which a first network node sends first information to instruct the first network node to support sensing control functions, so that the first network node can also be selected as a sensing control node according to the sensing service request, thereby realizing the selection of a suitable sensing control node to perform sensing service control and improving communication efficiency.

[0158] Figure 2a is a schematic diagram of a communication method interaction according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 2a, this embodiment of the present disclosure relates to a communication method for a communication system 100, the method including:

[0159] In step S2101, the second network node 102 sends a third message to the first network node 101.

[0160] In some embodiments, "acquire," "get," "obtain," "receive," "transmit," "bidirectional transmission," and "send and / or receive" can be used interchangeably and can be interpreted as receiving from other entities, acquiring from protocols, acquiring from higher layers, obtaining through self-processing, or autonomous implementation. Protocols include, for example, at least one of the 3GPP protocol, Wi-Fi protocol, and audio and / or video protocols.

[0161] In some embodiments, terms such as “send,” “transmit,” “report,” “distribute,” “transfer,” “bidirectional transmission,” “send and / or receive” can be used interchangeably.

[0162] In some embodiments, the name of the third message is not limited, and it may be, for example, a perception information request message. The third message may be included in the protocol signaling of the first network node and the second network node.

[0163] In some embodiments, the first network node 101 receives a third message sent by the second network node 102.

[0164] In some embodiments, the third message is used to request the first network node to send first information. The first information is used to indicate that the first network node supports sensing control functionality. For example, a second network node can send a third message to multiple network nodes, including the first network node. If a network node supports sensing control functionality (e.g., the first network node 101 supports sensing control functionality), it can send the first information to the second network node.

[0165] In some embodiments, the names of information, etc., are not limited to the names described in the embodiments. Terms such as "information", "message", "signal", "signaling", "report", "configuration", "indication", "instruction", "command", "channel", "parameter", "domain", "field", "symbol", "symbol", "codebook", "codeword", "codepoint", "bit", "data", "program", and "chip" can be used interchangeably.

[0166] In some embodiments, the first network node may be a node that supports sensing and control functions, for example, it may be a RAN, but is not limited thereto.

[0167] In some embodiments, the first network node may include a logical unit for perception control, which can support perception control functions. That is, the first network node supports perception control functions, and may be a logical unit within the first network node that supports perception control functions. The logical unit in the first network node that supports perception control functions can also be referred to as a perception control function node deployed on the first network node side. The perception control function node can be deployed on the first network node side or on the core network side. Compared to a perception control function node deployed on the core network side, the perception control function node of the first network node can provide perception services with lower latency. For example, the perception control function node of the first network node can support faster perception resource allocation, perception result calculation, and / or perception result transmission, but is not limited to this.

[0168] In some embodiments, the sensing results can be used for communication to improve communication efficiency or resource utilization, etc.

[0169] In some embodiments, the second network node may be a node that receives a first message, which requests a sensing service. For example, the second network node may receive the first message and select a network node that supports sensing control functionality as the control node for the sensing service. For example, the second network node may be an AMF (Advanced Network Provider), which may receive the first message and forward it to an SF (Secure Network Provider) to select the SF as the control node for the sensing service. Alternatively, the second network node may be an SF, which may receive the first message and become the control node for the sensing service. If the second network node sends a third message to the first network node and receives the first information sent by the first network node, or if the first network node actively sends the first information to the second network node, then the second network node knows that the first network node supports the sensing control functionality. When the second network node receives the first message, it may select the first network node as the control node for the sensing service. For example, the AMF may select at least one of the first network node and the SF as the control node for the sensing service. Alternatively, the SF may select the first network node as the control node for some or all of the sensing services. Another example is that the second network node may be a RAN (Regional Network Provider), which may not support sensing control functionality, while the first network node may support sensing control functionality. RANs that do not support sensing and control functions request sensing services from nodes that do support sensing and control functions for purposes such as communication. For example, a RAN that does not support sensing and control functions can receive a first message and forward it to a RAN that supports sensing and control functions to request sensing services. It is understood that the example of the second network node in this embodiment is merely exemplary and this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0170] In some embodiments, the terms “radio”, “wireless”, “radio access network (RAN)”, “access network (AN)”, and “RAN-based” can be used interchangeably.

[0171] It is understood that step S2101 is optional. For example, if the first network node can actively send the first information to the second network node, then step S2101 can be omitted.

[0172] In step S2102, the first network node 101 sends the first information to the second network node 102.

[0173] In some embodiments, the second network node 102 receives the first information sent by the first network node 101.

[0174] In some embodiments, the first information is used to indicate that the first network node supports the sensing control function.

[0175] In some embodiments, the first information includes at least one of the following: a first identifier for identifying a sensing control function; a second identifier for identifying that a first network node supports the sensing control function; indication information for indicating whether the sensing control function is enabled; the sensing area supported by the sensing control function; the sensing type supported by the sensing control function; the load of the sensing control function; the Quality of Service (QoS) supported by the sensing control function; and the sensing mode supported by the sensing control function.

[0176] Optionally, the first information may include a first identifier, which identifies the sensing and control function of the first network node. It is understood that for a second network node, more than one first network node may send the first information to it; therefore, the first information may include the first identifier to identify the sensing and control function of the first network node. For example, the first identifier may be the identifier of the first network node or an index of an instance of the sensing and control function.

[0177] Optionally, the first information may include a second identifier, which is used to identify that the first network node supports sensing and control functions. For example, the second identifier may be a function identifier of the first network node.

[0178] Optionally, the first information may include indication information for whether the sensing control function is enabled. For example, a first network node may indicate to a second network node that it supports the sensing control function and that the sensing control function is enabled, in which case the second network node can select the first network node as the control node for the sensing service. Alternatively, a first network node may indicate to a second network node that it supports the sensing control function, but that the sensing control function is disabled, in which case the second network node may temporarily not select the first network node as the control node for the sensing service. However, once the first network node's sensing control function is enabled, it only needs to indicate to the second network node that its sensing control function is enabled to enable the second network node to select it as the control node for the sensing service. Including indication information for whether the sensing control function is enabled in the first information also allows the first network node to temporarily not act as the control node for the sensing service in situations with heavy traffic or poor channel quality, thus avoiding communication congestion and service interruption, while also ensuring the quality of the sensing service.

[0179] Optionally, the first information may include the sensing area supported by the sensing control function. For example, the second network node may determine whether to select the first network node as the control node for the sensing service based on whether the sensing area supported by the first network node's sensing control function meets the requirements of the sensing service. For another example, when multiple first network nodes send first information to the second network node, i.e., the second network node selects the control node for the sensing service from among multiple first network nodes, or when the second network node selects the control node for the sensing service from among multiple different nodes including the first network node, it may also select a first network node with a larger or smaller sensing area based on the supported sensing area. It is understood that, to achieve different effects, in different sensing services, there may be a tendency to select a first network node with a larger supported sensing area, or a tendency to select a first network node with a relatively smaller supported sensing area. For example, the sensing area may be represented as a list of network node identifiers, i.e., the supported sensing area may be the area covered by the network nodes in the list. For another example, the sensing area may be represented as a list of cell identifiers, i.e., the supported sensing area may be the area covered by the cells in the list. For yet another example, the sensing area may be represented as a geographic area.

[0180] Optionally, the first information may include the sensing types supported by the sensing control function. For example, the second network node may determine whether to select the first network node as the control node for the sensing service based on whether the sensing types supported by the first network node's sensing control function meet the requirements of the sensing service. As another example, if the second network node manages multiple sensing services corresponding to various sensing types, and the first network node supports some of these sensing types, the second network node may also allocate some sensing services to the first network node, i.e., allocate them to the first network node's sensing control function. The sensing types may be, for example, intruder detection sensing services or environmental sensing sensing services, but are not limited to these, and this disclosure does not provide specific examples.

[0181] Optionally, the first information may include the load of the sensing control function. For example, the second network node may determine whether to select the first network node as the control node for the sensing service based on whether the load of the first network node's sensing control function meets the requirements of the sensing service. As another example, if the second network node manages multiple sensing services, it may also allocate some sensing services to the first network node based on the load of the first network node's sensing control function to avoid overload. Here, the load of the sensing control function may refer to the resource load of sensing and / or the computing load of sensing, but is not limited to these.

[0182] Optionally, the first information may include the quality of service (QoS) supported by the sensing control function. For example, a second network node may determine whether to select a first network node as the control node for the sensing service based on whether the QoS supported by the first network node's sensing control function meets the requirements of the sensing service. As another example, when multiple first network nodes send first information to a second network node, i.e., when the second network node selects a control node for the sensing service from among multiple first network nodes, or when the second network node selects a control node for the sensing service from among multiple different nodes including the first network node, it may also select a first network node with a higher or lower QoS based on the QoS included in the first information. It is understood that, to achieve different effects, in different sensing services, there is a tendency to select a first network node with a higher QoS or a first network node with a relatively lower QoS. For example, QoS may be accuracy and / or latency, but is not limited to these. Accuracy and latency may be accuracy and latency specific to different sensing types; for example, the first information may include supported sensing types and the QoS corresponding to each sensing type. For example, service quality can be the computational power of the perceived results. If the computational power is high, the perceived results can be obtained faster or with higher accuracy.

[0183] Optionally, the first information may include the sensing modes supported by the sensing control function. For example, the second network node may determine whether to select the first network node as the control node for the sensing service based on whether the sensing modes supported by the first network node's sensing control function meet the requirements of the sensing service. As another example, when multiple first network nodes send the first information to the second network node, i.e., when the second network node selects the control node for the sensing service from among multiple first network nodes, or when the second network node selects the control node for the sensing service from among multiple different nodes including the first network node, it may also select the node with the more suitable sensing mode as the control node for the sensing service based on the sensing modes included in the first information. The sensing modes may include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following:

[0184] 1) Base station A transmits, base station B receives.

[0185] 2) Base station A transmits, base station A receives.

[0186] 3) Terminal A sends, terminal B receives.

[0187] 4) Terminal A sends, Terminal A receives.

[0188] 5) Base station A transmits, terminal A receives.

[0189] 6) Terminal A transmits, base station A receives.

[0190] In some embodiments, the first network node may proactively send first information to the second network node. Alternatively, it may send first information in response to a request from the second network node, for example, by requesting the first network node to send first information via a third message. The first information may be carried by a second message, which is a protocol message for communication between the access network and the core network.

[0191] In some embodiments, the second message includes at least one of the following: an interface setup request message; a first network node configuration update message; and a second network node configuration update confirmation message.

[0192] Optionally, the second message can be an interface connection establishment request message, which is a message used to request interface establishment. For example, the interface connection establishment request message can be a Next Generation (NG) establishment request message.

[0193] Optionally, the second message can be a first network node configuration update message. For example, the first network node sends a first network node configuration update message to the second network node to update the configuration of the first network node, and the first information can be carried in this message. For example, the first network node can be a RAN, and the first network node configuration update message can be a RAN configuration update message.

[0194] Optionally, the second message can be a second network node configuration update confirmation message. For example, the second network node sends a second network node configuration update message to the first network node to update the configuration of the second network node, and the first network node returns a second network node configuration update completion message, which can carry the first information. For example, the second network node can be an AMF (Advanced Configuration and Frontier Function), and the second network node configuration update completion message can be an AMF configuration update completion message (AMF CONFIGURATION UPDATE ACKNOWLEDGE).

[0195] In some embodiments, the first network node sends first information in response to a request from the second network node. For example, the second network node requests the first network node to send the first information via a third message. The first information may be carried by a response message to the third message.

[0196] In some embodiments, the embodiments of this disclosure may be applicable to different communication system architectures.

[0197] For example, this can be applied to a communication system architecture with a Next Generation Access Network (NG-RAN), as shown in Figure 2b. In this architecture, the RAN may contain RSC units, the SF (Service Provider) can connect to the AMF (Agency Provider) via a Network Location Service (NLS) interface, and the RAN can connect to the AMF via a Next Generation Core Network (NG-C) interface. The AMF can send the first message to the SF or to the RAN containing the RSC unit. In Figure 2b, the RAN also has Transmission and Receiving Points (TRPs). Different RANs are connected via an inter-base station interface (Xn interface), and the RAN and UE are connected via an inter-user equipment and base station interface (Uu interface). The UE can send a Session Establishment Request (SET) to request the establishment of a network connection.

[0198] For example, this can be applied to communication system architectures with Next Generation Access Network (NG-RAN), as shown in Figure 2c. In this architecture, the RAN can have RSC units, and the SF can directly connect to the RAN via a new interface, allowing the SF to send the first message to the RAN. In Figure 2c, the RAN also has Transmission and Receiving Points (TRPs). Different RANs are connected via an inter-base station interface (Xn interface), and the RAN and UE can connect via an inter-user equipment and base station interface (Uu interface). The UE can send a Session Establishment Request (SET) to request the establishment of a network connection.

[0199] In some embodiments, the name of the first information is not limited, and it may be, for example, "sensing information" or "sensing control information".

[0200] In step S2103, the second network node 102 sends a first message to the first network node 101.

[0201] In some embodiments, the first network node 101 receives a first message sent by the second network node 102.

[0202] In some embodiments, the first message is used to request a sensing service. For example, the first message may be used to request management of the sensing service, or to request execution of a sensing task, or to request to act as a control node for the sensing service, etc., which are not limited in this disclosure.

[0203] In some embodiments, the second network node 102 can receive a first message sent by the fourth network node 104 and select a network node that supports the sensing control function as the control node for the sensing service. If the second network node has previously received a first message sent by the first network node, it is known that the first network node supports the sensing control function, and the second network node can select the first network node as the control node for the sensing service. When the node selected by the second network node that supports the sensing control function is the first network node, that is, the second network node selects the first network node as the control node for the sensing service, the second network node can send a first message to the first network node. For example, the second network node 102 can receive the first message sent by the fourth network node 104 and then send the first message to the first network node 101.

[0204] In some embodiments, the first message may be, for example, a sensing request message.

[0205] In some embodiments, the second network node may send a first message to the first network node to select the first network node as the control node for the sensing service.

[0206] In some embodiments, after receiving the first message, the first network node can act as the control node for the sensing service, determine the sensing mode, select base stations and / or UEs participating in the sensing task, collect sensing measurement data, calculate sensing results, and distribute sensing results, etc. For example, the first network node can send the sensing results to a terminal or to a second network node, etc.

[0207] The communication method involved in the embodiments of this disclosure may include at least one of steps S2101 to S2103. For example, step S2102 may be implemented as a separate embodiment, but is not limited thereto.

[0208] In some embodiments, steps S2101 and S2103 are optional, and one or more of these steps may be omitted or substituted in different embodiments.

[0209] In some embodiments, the steps and their optional implementations in other embodiments described before or after this embodiment, as well as other related parts in the specification, can be referred to, and will not be repeated here.

[0210] Figure 2d is a schematic diagram illustrating a communication method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 2d, this embodiment of the present disclosure relates to a communication method for a communication system 100, the method comprising:

[0211] Step S2201: The first network node 101 sends the first information to the third network node 103.

[0212] In some embodiments, the third network node 103 receives the first information sent by the first network node 101.

[0213] In some embodiments, the third network node may be a network node that provides feedback to the fourth network node regarding support for sensing control functionality. The fourth network node may generate a first message and select a network node that supports sensing control functionality as the control node for the sensing service. For example, the fourth network node may query the third network node for network nodes that support sensing control functionality, and after generating the first message, it may send the first message to the node that supports sensing control functionality.

[0214] In some embodiments, the first information is carried by a fourth message, which is used to request the registration of the first network node's sensing control function. For example, the first network node may send a fourth message to a third network node to request the registration of the sensing control function supported by the first network node. The fourth message includes the first information, which is used to indicate that the first network node supports the sensing control function. It is understood that if the registration is successful, the third network node may report the first network node to the fourth network node. For example, the third network node may report the first network node to the fourth network node when the fourth network node queries for nodes that support the sensing control function. Alternatively, the third network node may actively report the first network node to the fourth network node. After receiving the information reported by the third network node (i.e., the first network node is a node that supports the sensing control function), the fourth network node selects the first network node as the control node for the sensing service and sends the first message to the first network node.

[0215] Understandably, if the first network node has not registered its perception control function, the fourth network node, after generating the first message, will typically send it to the second network node. The second network node, upon receiving the first message, can then select the first network node as the control node for the perception service. If the first network node has registered its perception control function, the fourth network node, after generating the first message, can directly send it to the first network node. Of course, even if the first network node has registered its perception control function, the fourth network node can still send the first message to the second network node. For example, if the perception type supported by the first network node's perception control function does not meet the requirements of the perception service, the fourth network node can send the first message to other nodes, such as the second network node. Similarly, if the service quality supported by the first network node's perception control function is lower or higher than that of other nodes, the fourth network node can also send the first message to other nodes, such as the second network node.

[0216] It is understandable that if the first network node has registered its sensing control function, but the fourth network node sends the first message to the second network node, and the first network node sends the first information to the second network node, the second network node may also allocate part or all of the sensing services to the first network node, that is, it may send the first message to the first network node and select it as the control node for part or all of the sensing services.

[0217] In some embodiments, the fourth message may be an Access Network Function Register_request message or an Access Network Function Update_request message, but is not limited to these.

[0218] In some embodiments, the third network node may be an NRF, but is not limited thereto.

[0219] In some embodiments, the fourth network node includes at least one of the following: sensing service NF; AF; AP; service-oriented access network equipment; core network equipment; service-oriented terminal equipment.

[0220] In step S2202, the fourth network node 104 sends a fifth message to the third network node 103.

[0221] In some embodiments, the third network node 103 receives a fifth message sent by the fourth network node 104.

[0222] In some embodiments, the fifth message is used to query network nodes that support the sensing control function. Alternatively, the fifth message is used to discover network nodes that support the sensing control function. Or, the fifth message may be used to request an update of network nodes that support the sensing control function.

[0223] In some embodiments, the third network node may provide feedback on the network node that supports the perception control function in the response message of the fifth message.

[0224] In some embodiments, the fifth message may be, for example, a Network Function Discovery Request (NF) message.

[0225] In step S2203, the third network node 103 sends the second information to the fourth network node 104.

[0226] In some embodiments, the fourth network node 104 receives second information sent by the third network node 103.

[0227] In some embodiments, the second information is used to indicate network nodes that support sensing control functions.

[0228] In some embodiments, a third network node may proactively send second information to a fourth network node. For example, after receiving first information from a first network node, the third network node may trigger the sending of second information to the fourth network node to indicate that the first network node is a network node that supports sensing and control functions.

[0229] In some embodiments, the third network node may send second information in response to a query from the fourth network node. For example, the fourth network node may send a fifth message to the third network node to query network nodes that support the perception control function. The third network function may carry the second information in the response message of the fifth message.

[0230] In some embodiments, the response message of the fifth message may be a Network Function Discovery Response (NF) message.

[0231] In step S2204, the fourth network node 104 sends the first message to the first network node 101.

[0232] In some embodiments, the first network node 101 receives a first message sent by the fourth network node 104.

[0233] In some embodiments, the first message is used to request the sensing service. After receiving the second message, the fourth network node can select the first network node as the control node for the sensing service and send the first message to the first network node.

[0234] It is understandable that step S2204 is optional. Even if the first network node registers the sensing control function and the third network node reports that the first network node is a node that supports the sensing control function to the fourth network node, the fourth network node can also select other nodes as the control node for the sensing service when selecting the control node for the sensing service. Therefore, step S2204 can be omitted.

[0235] In some embodiments, the embodiments of this disclosure may be applicable to different communication system architectures.

[0236] For example, this can be applied to a communication system architecture with a service-oriented RAN, as shown in Figure 2e. In Figure 2e, the communication system includes an AMF, PCF, NWDAF, SF, Service Management Function (SMF), UPF, UE, and a RAN with RSC functionality. In the system architecture shown in Figure 2e, this RAN is a 6G RAN.

[0237] The communication method involved in the embodiments of this disclosure may include at least one of steps S2201 to S2204. For example, step S2201 may be implemented as a standalone embodiment. As another example, steps S2201 and S2203 may be implemented as separate embodiments. As yet another example, steps S2201, S2202, and S2203 may be separate embodiments. As yet another example, steps S2201, S2203, and S2204 may be separate embodiments. This disclosure does not exhaustively list all examples, but is not limited thereto.

[0238] In some embodiments, steps S2202 to S2204 are optional, and one or more of these steps may be omitted or substituted in different embodiments.

[0239] In some embodiments, the steps and their optional implementations in other embodiments described before or after this embodiment, as well as other related parts in the specification, can be referred to, and will not be repeated here.

[0240] Figure 3 is an interactive schematic diagram of a communication method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 3, the embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a communication method, which includes:

[0241] Step S3101: The first network node 101 sends the first information.

[0242] Optionally, the first information includes at least one of the following: a first identifier for identifying the sensing control function; a second identifier for identifying that the first network node supports the sensing control function; indication information for indicating whether the sensing control function is enabled; the sensing area supported by the sensing control function; the sensing type supported by the sensing control function; the load of the sensing control function; the quality of service supported by the sensing control function; and the sensing mode supported by the sensing control function.

[0243] Optionally, the first network node 101 may send the first information to the second network node 102.

[0244] Optionally, the second network node is used to receive the first message and select a network node that supports the perception control function as the control node for the perception service. The first message is used to request the perception service.

[0245] Optionally, the first network node 101 receives the first message sent by the second network node 102.

[0246] Optionally, the first information is carried by the second message, which is a protocol message for communication between the access network and the core network.

[0247] Optionally, the second message includes at least one of the following: an interface connection establishment request message; a first network node configuration update message; and a second network node configuration update confirmation message.

[0248] Optionally, before sending the first information to the second network node 102, the first network node 101 receives a third message sent by the second network node 102, the third message being used to request the first network node to send the first information.

[0249] Optionally, the first information is carried by the response message of the third message.

[0250] Optionally, the second network node includes at least one of the following: access network equipment (RAN); AMF; SF.

[0251] Optionally, the first network node 101 may send the first information to the third network node 103.

[0252] Optionally, the third network node is used to report the network nodes that support the perception control function to the fourth network node. The fourth network node is used to generate a first message and select the network node that supports the perception control function as the control node of the perception service. The first message is used to request the perception service.

[0253] Optionally, the first network node 101 may receive the first message sent by the fourth network node.

[0254] Optionally, the first information is carried by a fourth message, which is used to request the registration of the first network node's perception and control functions.

[0255] Optionally, the third network node is an NRF.

[0256] Optionally, the fourth network node includes at least one of the following: a sensing service NF; an AF; an AP; a service-oriented access network device; a core network device; or a service-oriented terminal device.

[0257] Figure 4a is an interactive schematic diagram of a communication method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 4a, the present disclosure relates to a communication method, which includes:

[0258] Step S4101: The RAN supporting the sensing and control function sends access network sensing and control information to the AMF.

[0259] In some embodiments, RAN sensing controller information may be the first information in other embodiments of this disclosure.

[0260] In some embodiments, the RAN supporting the sensing control function may be the first network node 101 in other embodiments of this disclosure.

[0261] In some embodiments, the AMF may be a second network node 102 in other embodiments of this disclosure.

[0262] In step S4102, SSNF sends a perception request message to AMF.

[0263] In some embodiments, SSNF may be a fourth network node in other embodiments of this disclosure.

[0264] In some embodiments, the sensing request message may be the first message in other embodiments of this disclosure.

[0265] Step S4103, AMF selects the perception control function.

[0266] In some embodiments, the AMF can select the sense control function (RSC selection) supported by the RAN, wherein selecting the sense control function can also be selecting the node that supports the sense control function.

[0267] In step S4104, the AMF sends a sensing request message to the RAN that supports sensing control functions.

[0268] In step S4105a, other RANs perform sensing tasks.

[0269] In some embodiments, other RANs may perform sensing tasks, for example, they may act as transmitters of sensing signals and / or receivers of sensing signals.

[0270] In step S4105b, the UE performs a sensing task.

[0271] In some embodiments, the UE can perform sensing tasks, for example, it can act as a transmitter of sensing signals and / or as a receiver of sensing signals.

[0272] It is understandable that other RANs can perform sensing tasks, UEs can perform sensing tasks, or RANs and UEs can perform sensing tasks together. Steps S4105a and S4105b are optional.

[0273] In step S4106a, the RAN supporting the sensing control function sends a sensing response to the SSNF.

[0274] In some embodiments, the RAN supporting the sensing control function sends a sensing response to the SSNF, or the RAN supporting the sensing control function sends a sensing response to the AMF, and the AMF sends a sensing response to the SSNF. The sensing response may include information such as the sensing result.

[0275] In step S4106b, the RAN supporting the sensing control function sends a sensing response to other RANs.

[0276] In step S4106c, the RAN supporting the sensing control function sends a sensing response to the UE.

[0277] Understandably, the RAN supporting the sensing control function can send the sensing response to at least one of the SSNF, other RANs, and UE, and steps S4106a, S4106b, and S4106c are optional.

[0278] In some embodiments, the above embodiments may be applied to the architecture of FIG2b.

[0279] In some embodiments, the base station sends RSC capability to the AMF, and the sensing request is sent to the AMF by other network elements. The AMF then selects either RSC or SF to perform sensing tasks that meet the sensing service requirements. The base station can provide sensing control information to the AMF through NG setup request messages and RAN configuration update messages. This approach is suitable for opening RSC functionality to network elements within the core network.

[0280] In some embodiments, the base station can provide RSC capabilities to the NEF via the AMF, and the NEF can then provide these capabilities to an external AF to provide RAN-side RSC capabilities. The external AF can invoke the RSC capabilities through the AMF.

[0281] The communication method involved in the embodiments of this disclosure may include at least one of steps S4101 to S4106c. For example, step S4101 may be implemented as a standalone embodiment, but is not limited thereto.

[0282] In some embodiments, steps S4102 to S4106c are optional, and one or more of these steps may be omitted or substituted in different embodiments.

[0283] In some embodiments, steps S4105a and S4105b may be performed in an alternate order or simultaneously, and steps S4106a, S4106b and S4106c may be performed in an alternate order or simultaneously.

[0284] In some embodiments, if an arrow in the interaction diagram representing the transmission of information, signaling, etc., from one subject to another passes through other subjects, it can be interpreted as the transmission from one subject to another via other subjects, or it can be interpreted as the transmission from one subject to another without passing through other subjects. For example, in step S4106a, the RAN supporting the sensing control function sends a sensing response to the SSNF. This can be either the RAN supporting the sensing control function forwarding the response to the SSNF via the AMF, or it can be the RAN supporting the sensing control function sending a sensing response to the SSNF without passing through other subjects.

[0285] In some embodiments, the steps and their optional implementations in other embodiments described before or after this embodiment, as well as other related parts in the specification, can be referred to, and will not be repeated here.

[0286] Figure 4b is an interactive schematic diagram of a communication method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 4b, the embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a communication method, which includes:

[0287] Step S4201: The RAN supporting the sensing and control function sends access network sensing and control information to the SF.

[0288] In some embodiments, RAN sensing controller information may be the first information in other embodiments of this disclosure.

[0289] In some embodiments, the RAN supporting the sensing control function may be the first network node 101 in other embodiments of this disclosure.

[0290] In some embodiments, SF may be a second network node 102 in other embodiments of this disclosure.

[0291] In step S4202, SSNF sends a perception request message to SF.

[0292] In some embodiments, SSNF may be a fourth network node in other embodiments of this disclosure.

[0293] In some embodiments, the sensing request message may be the first message in other embodiments of this disclosure.

[0294] In some embodiments, the SSNF sends a perception request message to the SF, or the SSNF sends a perception request message to the AMF, and the AMF sends a perception request message to the SF.

[0295] Step S4203, SF selects the sensing control function.

[0296] In some embodiments, the SF can select the sense control function (RSC selection) supported by the RAN, wherein selecting the sense control function can also be selecting the node that supports the sense control function.

[0297] In step S4204, the SF sends a sensing request message to the RAN that supports sensing control functions.

[0298] In step S4205a, other RANs perform sensing tasks.

[0299] In some embodiments, other RANs may perform sensing tasks, for example, they may act as transmitters of sensing signals and / or receivers of sensing signals.

[0300] In step S4205b, the UE performs a perception task.

[0301] In some embodiments, the UE can perform sensing tasks, for example, it can act as a transmitter of sensing signals and / or as a receiver of sensing signals.

[0302] It is understandable that other RANs can perform sensing tasks, UEs can perform sensing tasks, or RANs and UEs can perform sensing tasks together. Steps S4205a and S4205b are optional.

[0303] In step S4206a, the RAN supporting the sensing control function sends a sensing response to the SSNF.

[0304] In some embodiments, the RAN supporting the sensing control function sends a sensing response to the SSNF. Alternatively, the RAN supporting the sensing control function may send a sensing response to the SF, the SF may send a sensing response to the AMF, and the AMF may send a sensing response to the SSNF. The sensing response may include information such as the sensing result.

[0305] In step S4206b, the RAN supporting the sensing control function sends a sensing response to other RANs.

[0306] In step S4206c, the RAN supporting the sensing control function sends a sensing response to the UE.

[0307] Understandably, a RAN that supports the sensing control function can send a sensing response to at least one of the SSNF, other RANs, and UEs, and steps S4206a, S4206b, and S4206c are optional.

[0308] In some embodiments, the SF can manage one or more RSCs. When requesting sensing information from the RAN, the SF can request information about the RSCs and select the appropriate RSC to perform the sensing task based on the obtained RSC information.

[0309] In some embodiments, the above embodiments may be applied to the architecture of FIG2c.

[0310] The communication method involved in the embodiments of this disclosure may include at least one of steps S4201 to S4206c. For example, step S4201 may be implemented as a standalone embodiment, but is not limited thereto.

[0311] In some embodiments, steps S4202 to S4206c are optional, and one or more of these steps may be omitted or substituted in different embodiments.

[0312] In some embodiments, steps S4205a and S4205b may be performed in an alternate order or simultaneously, and steps S4206a, S4206b and S4206c may be performed in an alternate order or simultaneously.

[0313] In some embodiments, if an arrow in the interaction diagram representing the transmission of information, signaling, etc., from one subject to another passes through other subjects, it can be interpreted as the transmission from one subject to another via other subjects, or it can be interpreted as the transmission from one subject to another without passing through other subjects. For example, in step S4206a, the RAN supporting the sensing control function sends a sensing response to the SSNF. This can be either the RAN supporting the sensing control function forwarding the response to the SSNF via the AMF, or it can be the RAN supporting the sensing control function sending a sensing response to the SSNF without passing through other subjects.

[0314] In some embodiments, the steps and their optional implementations in other embodiments described before or after this embodiment, as well as other related parts in the specification, can be referred to, and will not be repeated here.

[0315] Figure 4c is an interactive schematic diagram of a communication method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 4c, the embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a communication method, which includes:

[0316] Step S4301: The RAN supporting the sensing control function sends an access network function registration request message to the NRF.

[0317] In some embodiments, the access network function registration request message may be a fourth message as described in other embodiments of this disclosure.

[0318] In step S4302, the NRF sends an access network function registration response message to the RAN that supports the sensing control function.

[0319] In some embodiments, the access network function registration response message may be a response message to the fourth message in other embodiments of this disclosure.

[0320] In step S4303, the SSNF sends a network function discovery request message to the NRF.

[0321] In some embodiments, the network function discovery request message may be the fifth message in other embodiments of this disclosure.

[0322] In step S4304, the NRF sends a network function discovery response message to the SSNF.

[0323] In some embodiments, the network function discovery response message may be a response message to the fifth message in other embodiments of this disclosure.

[0324] In step S4305, the SSNF sends a sensing request message to the RAN that supports sensing control functions.

[0325] In step S4306a, other RANs perform sensing tasks.

[0326] In some embodiments, other RANs may perform sensing tasks, for example, they may act as transmitters of sensing signals and / or receivers of sensing signals.

[0327] In step S4306b, the UE performs a sensing task.

[0328] In some embodiments, the UE can perform sensing tasks, for example, it can act as a transmitter of sensing signals and / or as a receiver of sensing signals.

[0329] It is understandable that other RANs can perform sensing tasks, UEs can perform sensing tasks, or RANs and UEs can perform sensing tasks together. Steps S4306a and S4306b are optional.

[0330] In step S4307a, the RAN supporting the sensing control function sends a sensing response to the SSNF.

[0331] In some embodiments, the RAN supporting the sensing control function sends a sensing response to the SSNF, or the RAN supporting the sensing control function sends a sensing response to the NRF, and the NRF sends a sensing response to the SSNF. The sensing response may include information such as the sensing result.

[0332] In step S4307b, the RAN supporting the sensing control function sends a sensing response to other RANs.

[0333] In step S4307c, the RAN supporting the sensing control function sends a sensing response to the UE.

[0334] In some embodiments, the above embodiments may be applied to the architecture of FIG2d.

[0335] In some embodiments, the access network aware control information (RSC info) may include at least one of the following:

[0336] The RSC identifier (RSC ID) is used to indicate the identifier of the RAN's RSC. It can be the RAN node ID or the access-aware control function instance (RSC function instance).

[0337] RAN Function Identifier (RAN Function ID) is used to determine whether the RAN supports a specific function.

[0338] The RSC function indicator is used to indicate whether the RSC function is enabled or disabled.

[0339] The sensing service area supported by RSC can be, for example, a list of RAN node IDs, a list of cell IDs, or a geo area.

[0340] RSC supports various sensing types, such as intruder detection and environment sensing.

[0341] RSC Current Sensing Load, such as the resource load of sensing and / or the computing load of sensing.

[0342] The Quality of Service (QoS) for sensing tasks supported by RSC, such as accuracy and / or latency, can be tailored to different sensing types.

[0343] RSC supports the following sensing modes.

[0344] The communication method involved in the embodiments of this disclosure may include at least one of steps S4301 to S4307c. For example, step S4301 may be implemented as a standalone embodiment, but is not limited thereto.

[0345] In some embodiments, steps S4302 to S4307c are optional, and one or more of these steps may be omitted or substituted in different embodiments.

[0346] In some embodiments, steps S4306a and S4306b may be performed in an alternate order or simultaneously, and steps S4307a, S4307b and S4307c may be performed in an alternate order or simultaneously.

[0347] In some embodiments, if an arrow in the interaction diagram representing the transmission of information, signaling, etc., from one subject to another passes through other subjects, it can be interpreted as the transmission from one subject to another via other subjects, or it can be interpreted as the transmission from one subject to another without passing through other subjects. For example, in step S4307a, the RAN supporting the sensing control function sends a sensing response to the SSNF. This can be either the RAN supporting the sensing control function forwarding the response to the SSNF via the AMF, or it can be the RAN supporting the sensing control function sending a sensing response to the SSNF without passing through other subjects.

[0348] In some embodiments, the steps and their optional implementations in other embodiments described before or after this embodiment, as well as other related parts in the specification, can be referred to, and will not be repeated here.

[0349] Figure 4d is an interactive schematic diagram of a communication method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 4d, the present disclosure relates to a communication method, which includes:

[0350] Step S4401: The first node sends the first information to the second node.

[0351] In some embodiments, the first information is used to indicate information that the base station supports sensing control.

[0352] In some embodiments, the first node may be a base station and the second node may be an AMF.

[0353] In some embodiments, the first information is included in Next Generation Application Protocol (NGAP) messages sent by the base station to the core network node, such as NG setup request messages, RAN configuration update messages, and AMF configuration update confirmation messages. This first information can be used for the selection of the sensing control node.

[0354] In some embodiments, the second node selects the first node as the control node for the sensing task based on the first information and the sensing service request.

[0355] In some embodiments, the first information includes at least one of the following:

[0356] RSC ID;

[0357] RAN Function ID, used to determine whether the RAN supports a specific function.

[0358] The RSC function indicator is used to indicate whether the RSC function is enabled or disabled.

[0359] The area information for sensing control is used to indicate the area range to which sensing control can be applied. For example, it can be a list of base station IDs, a list of cells, or a geographical region.

[0360] In some embodiments, the second node determines whether to select based on the area information of the sensing control and the needs of the sensing service.

[0361] Perception types: RSC supports perception types including intrusion detection, environment reconstruction, environment detection, and target tracking.

[0362] The current perceived load is used to indicate the current perceived management load. It can include the load of perceived tasks, the load of perceived resources, the load of perceived computing power, etc.

[0363] In some embodiments, the sensed load can be expressed as a percentage, and the second node can select the appropriate RSC to perform the sensed task based on the sensed load information of multiple RSCs.

[0364] Supported Sensing QoS: RSC supports the QoS of sensing tasks, such as accuracy and / or latency, which can be for different sensing types.

[0365] Supported sensing modes, the sensing modes supported by RSC. For example:

[0366] 1) Base station A transmits, base station B receives.

[0367] 2) Base station A transmits, base station A receives.

[0368] 3) Terminal A sends, terminal B receives.

[0369] 4) Terminal A sends, Terminal A receives.

[0370] 5) Base station A transmits, terminal A receives.

[0371] 6) Terminal A transmits, base station A receives.

[0372] The behavior of the second node:

[0373] When the second node (AMF) receives a sensing service request from another function (e.g., a sensing service consumer), the AMF determines whether to select RSC to perform the sensing task based on the requirements in the sensing service request and the initial information. Specifically, for services sensitive to sensing latency, RSC is selected to perform the sensing task.

[0374] In some embodiments, the RSC performs sensing tasks including at least one of the following: determining the sensing mode; selecting base stations and / or UEs to participate in sensing; collecting sensing measurement data; calculating sensing results; and distributing sensing results (e.g., directly sending sensing results to terminal devices, etc.).

[0375] Figure 4e is an interactive schematic diagram of a communication method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 4e, the present disclosure relates to a communication method, which includes:

[0376] Step S4501: The second node sends a first request to the first node.

[0377] In some embodiments, the first request may be included in the protocol signaling between the SF and the base station. For example, the first request may be included in a message used to request sensing information.

[0378] In some embodiments, the second node is an SF and the first node is a base station.

[0379] In some embodiments, the first request is used to request first information.

[0380] In step S4502, the first node sends the first information to the second node according to the first request.

[0381] In some embodiments, the specific content of the first information is shown in the embodiment of Figure 4d, and will not be described again.

[0382] In some embodiments, the SF receives a sensing service request from the AMF or other core network nodes. The SF can determine whether to select a first node as the sensing control node based on the sensing service request and the first information.

[0383] The communication method involved in the embodiments of this disclosure may include at least one of steps S4501 to S4502. For example, step S4501 may be implemented as a standalone embodiment, but is not limited thereto.

[0384] In some embodiments, step S4502 is optional, and one or more of these steps may be omitted or substituted in different embodiments.

[0385] In some embodiments, if an arrow in the interaction diagram representing the sending of information, signaling, etc. from one subject to another passes through other subjects, it can be interpreted as the information being forwarded from one subject to another via other subjects, or it can be interpreted as the information being sent from one subject to another without passing through other subjects.

[0386] In some embodiments, the steps and their optional implementations in other embodiments described before or after this embodiment, as well as other related parts in the specification, can be referred to, and will not be repeated here.

[0387] Figure 4f is an interactive schematic diagram of a communication method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 4f, the present disclosure relates to a communication method, which includes:

[0388] Step S4601: The first node sends a RAN function registration request message to the second node.

[0389] In some embodiments, the RAN function registration request message includes first information. The specific content of the first information is shown in the embodiment of Figure 4d, and will not be described again.

[0390] In some embodiments, the first node is an RSC function and the second node is an NRF function.

[0391] In step S4602, the second node confirms the RAN function registration request and sends a RAN function registration feedback message to the first node.

[0392] In some embodiments, sending a RAN function registration feedback message to the first node can also be understood as sending a RAN function registration feedback message to the RAN function of the first node.

[0393] In some embodiments, the NRF may be a logical function responsible for RAN function management.

[0394] In some embodiments, when the first node determines to stop the RSC function, the first node sends a second message to the second node, the second message being used to instruct the second node to register the RSC function.

[0395] The communication method involved in the embodiments of this disclosure may include at least one of steps S4601 to S4602. For example, step S4601 may be implemented as a standalone embodiment, but is not limited thereto.

[0396] In some embodiments, step S4602 is optional, and one or more of these steps may be omitted or substituted in different embodiments.

[0397] In some embodiments, if an arrow in the interaction diagram representing the sending of information, signaling, etc. from one subject to another passes through other subjects, it can be interpreted as the information being forwarded from one subject to another via other subjects, or it can be interpreted as the information being sent from one subject to another without passing through other subjects.

[0398] In some embodiments, the steps and their optional implementations in other embodiments described before or after this embodiment, as well as other related parts in the specification, can be referred to, and will not be repeated here.

[0399] This disclosure also proposes an apparatus (also referred to as a communication device, etc.) for implementing any of the above methods. For example, an apparatus is proposed that includes units or modules for implementing the steps performed by the terminal in any of the above methods. Furthermore, another apparatus is proposed that includes units or modules for implementing the steps performed by a network device (e.g., an access network device, a core network functional node, a core network device, etc.) in any of the above methods.

[0400] It should be understood that the division of units or modules in the above device is only a logical functional division. In actual implementation, they can be fully or partially integrated into a single physical entity, or they can be physically separated. Furthermore, the units or modules in the device can be implemented by a processor calling software: for example, the device includes a processor connected to a memory containing instructions. The processor calls the instructions stored in the memory to implement any of the above methods or to implement the functions of the units or modules in the above device. The processor can be, for example, a general-purpose processor, such as a Central Processing Unit (CPU) or a microprocessor, and the memory can be internal or external to the device. Alternatively, the units or modules in the device can be implemented in the form of hardware circuits. The functionality of some or all of the units or modules can be achieved through the design of these hardware circuits, which can be understood as one or more processors. For example, in one implementation, the hardware circuit is an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC). The functionality of some or all of the units or modules is achieved through the design of the logical relationships between the components within the circuit. In another implementation, the hardware circuit can be implemented using a programmable logic device (PLD), such as a field-programmable gate array (FPGA). This PLD can include a large number of logic gates, and the connection relationships between these logic gates are configured through configuration files, thereby achieving the functionality of some or all of the units or modules. All units or modules in the above device can be implemented entirely through processor-called software, entirely through hardware circuits, or partially through processor-called software with the remaining portion implemented through hardware circuits.

[0401] In this embodiment, the processor is a circuit with signal processing capabilities. In one implementation, the processor can be a circuit with instruction read and execute capabilities, such as a Central Processing Unit (CPU), a microprocessor, a graphics processing unit (GPU) (which can be understood as a microprocessor), or a digital signal processor (DSP). In another implementation, the processor can implement certain functions through the logical relationships of hardware circuits. The logical relationships of the aforementioned hardware circuits are fixed or reconfigurable. For example, the processor is a hardware circuit implemented using an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or a programmable logic device (PLD), such as an FPGA. In a reconfigurable hardware circuit, the process of the processor loading a configuration document and configuring the hardware circuit can be understood as the process of the processor loading instructions to implement the functions of some or all of the above units or modules. Furthermore, it can also be a hardware circuit designed for artificial intelligence, which can be understood as an ASIC, such as a Neural Network Processing Unit (NPU), a Tensor Processing Unit (TPU), or a Deep Learning Processing Unit (DPU).

[0402] Figure 5a is a schematic diagram of the structure of a first network node according to an embodiment of this disclosure. The first network node 5100 is used to perform any of the above methods. In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 5a, the first network node 5100 may include at least one of a transceiver module 5101, a processing module 5102, etc. In some embodiments, the transceiver module 5101 is used to send first information, which is used to indicate that the first network node supports sensing control functions.

[0403] In some embodiments, the first information includes at least one of the following: a first identifier for identifying a sensing control function; a second identifier for identifying that a first network node supports the sensing control function; indication information for indicating whether the sensing control function is enabled; the sensing area supported by the sensing control function; the sensing type supported by the sensing control function; the load of the sensing control function; the quality of service supported by the sensing control function; and the sensing mode supported by the sensing control function.

[0404] In some embodiments, the transceiver module 5101 sends the first information in the following manner: sending the first information to a second network node, the second network node being used to receive the first message and select a network node that supports the perception control function as the control node for the perception service, and the first message being used to request the perception service.

[0405] In some embodiments, the transceiver module 5101 is further configured to: receive a first message sent by a second network node.

[0406] In some embodiments, the first information is carried by a second message, which is a protocol message for communication between the access network and the core network.

[0407] In some embodiments, the second message includes at least one of the following: an interface connection establishment request message; a first network node configuration update message; and a second network node configuration update confirmation message.

[0408] In some embodiments, before sending the first information to the second network node, the transceiver module 5101 is further configured to: receive a third message sent by the second network node, the third message being used to request the first network node to send the first information.

[0409] In some embodiments, the first information is carried by a response message of the third message.

[0410] In some embodiments, the second network node includes at least one of the following: an access network device (RAN); an access and mobility management function (AMF); and a sensing function (SF).

[0411] In some embodiments, the transceiver module 5101 sends the first information in the following manner: the third network node is used to send the first information to the third network node, the third network node is used to provide feedback to the fourth network node on the network node that supports the perception control function, the fourth network node is used to generate the first message, and select the network node that supports the perception control function as the control node of the perception service, and the first message is used to request the perception service.

[0412] In some embodiments, the transceiver module 5101 is further configured to: receive a first message sent by a fourth network node.

[0413] In some embodiments, the first information is carried by a fourth message, which is used to request the registration of the perception control function of the first network node.

[0414] In some embodiments, the third network node is a network storage function (NRF).

[0415] In some embodiments, the fourth network node includes at least one of the following: a sensing service function (NF) application function (AF); an access point (AP); a service-oriented access network device; a core network device; and a service-oriented terminal device.

[0416] Figure 5b is a schematic diagram of the structure of the second network node proposed in an embodiment of this disclosure. The second network node 5200 is used to perform any of the above methods. In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 5b, the second network node 5200 may include at least one of a transceiver module 5201, a processing module 5202, etc. In some embodiments, the transceiver module 5201 is used to receive first information sent by the first network node, the first information being used to indicate that the first network node supports sensing control functions.

[0417] In some embodiments, the first information includes at least one of the following: a first identifier for identifying a sensing control function; a second identifier for identifying that a first network node supports the sensing control function; indication information for indicating whether the sensing control function is enabled; the sensing area supported by the sensing control function; the sensing type supported by the sensing control function; the load of the sensing control function; the quality of service supported by the sensing control function; and the sensing mode supported by the sensing control function.

[0418] In some embodiments, the transceiver module 5201 is further configured to: receive a first message sent by a fourth network node, and select a network node that supports the sensing control function as the control node for the sensing service, wherein the first message is used to request the sensing service.

[0419] In some embodiments, the transceiver module 5201 is further configured to: send a first message to the first network node.

[0420] In some embodiments, the first information is carried by a second message, which is a protocol message for communication between the access network and the core network.

[0421] In some embodiments, the second message includes at least one of the following: an interface connection establishment request message; a first network node configuration update message; and a second network node configuration update confirmation message.

[0422] In some embodiments, before receiving the first information, the transceiver module 5201 is further configured to: send a third message to the first network node, the third message being used to request the first network node to send the first information.

[0423] In some embodiments, the first information is carried by a response message of the third message.

[0424] In some embodiments, the second network node includes at least one of the following: an access network device (RAN); an access and mobility management function (AMF); and a sensing function (SF).

[0425] Figure 5c is a schematic diagram of the structure of a third network node proposed in an embodiment of this disclosure. The third network node 5300 is used to perform any of the above methods. In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 5c, the third network node 5300 may include at least one of a transceiver module 5301, a processing module 5302, etc. In some embodiments, the transceiver module 5301 is used to receive first information sent by the first network node, the first information being used to indicate that the first network node supports sensing control functions.

[0426] In some embodiments, the first information includes at least one of the following: a first identifier for identifying a sensing control function; a second identifier for identifying that a first network node supports the sensing control function; indication information for indicating whether the sensing control function is enabled; the sensing area supported by the sensing control function; the sensing type supported by the sensing control function; the load of the sensing control function; the quality of service supported by the sensing control function; and the sensing mode supported by the sensing control function.

[0427] In some embodiments, the first information is carried by a fourth message, which is used to request the registration of the perception control function of the first network node.

[0428] In some embodiments, the transceiver module 5301 is further configured to: send second information to a fourth network node, the second information being used to indicate network nodes that support the sensing control function, the network nodes that support the sensing control function including the first network node.

[0429] In some embodiments, the third network node is a network storage function (NRF).

[0430] In some embodiments, the fourth network node includes at least one of the following: a sensing service function (NF) application function (AF); an access point (AP); a service-oriented access network device; a core network device; and a service-oriented terminal device.

[0431] Figure 6a is a schematic diagram of the structure of the communication device proposed in an embodiment of this disclosure. The communication device 6100 can be a network device (e.g., access network device, core network device, etc.), a terminal (e.g., user equipment, etc.), a chip, chip system, or processor that supports the network device in implementing any of the above methods, or a chip, chip system, or processor that supports the terminal in implementing any of the above methods. The communication device 6100 can be used to implement the methods described in the above method embodiments; for details, please refer to the descriptions in the above method embodiments.

[0432] As shown in Figure 6a, the communication device 6100 is used to execute any of the above methods. In some embodiments, the communication device 6100 includes one or more processors 6101. The processor 6101 may be a general-purpose processor or a special-purpose processor, such as a baseband processor or a central processing unit. The baseband processor may be used to process communication protocols and communication data, and the central processing unit may be used to control communication devices (e.g., base stations, baseband chips, terminal devices, terminal device chips, DUs or CUs, etc.), execute programs, and process program data. Optionally, the communication device 6100 is used to execute any of the above methods. Optionally, one or more processors 6101 are used to invoke instructions to cause the communication device 6100 to execute any of the above methods.

[0433] In some embodiments, the communication device 6100 further includes one or more transceivers 6102. When the communication device 6100 includes one or more transceivers 6102, the transceiver 6102 performs at least one of the communication steps such as sending and / or receiving in the above method (e.g., steps S2101 to S2103, steps S2201 to S2203, but not limited thereto), and the processor 6101 performs other steps. In optional embodiments, the transceiver may include a receiver and / or a transmitter, which may be separate or integrated. Optionally, the terms transceiver, transceiver unit, transceiver, transceiver circuit, interface circuit, interface, etc., can be used interchangeably; the terms transmitter, sending unit, transmitter, sending circuit, etc., can be used interchangeably; the terms receiver, receiving unit, receiver, receiving circuit, etc., can be used interchangeably.

[0434] In some embodiments, the communication device 6100 further includes one or more memories 6103 for storing data and / or instructions. Optionally, one or more processors 6101 are used to invoke instructions stored in the memory 6103 to cause the communication device 6100 to perform any of the above methods. Optionally, all or part of the memory 6103 may also be located outside the communication device 6100. In an optional embodiment, the communication device 6100 may include one or more interface circuits 6104. Optionally, the interface circuit 6104 is connected to the memory 6103 and can be used to receive data and / or instructions from the memory 6103 or other devices, and can be used to send data and / or instructions to the memory 6103 or other devices. For example, the interface circuit 6104 can read data and / or instructions stored in the memory 6103 and send the data and / or instructions to the processor 6101.

[0435] The communication device 6100 described in the above embodiments may be a network device or a terminal, but the scope of the communication device 6100 described in this disclosure is not limited thereto, and the structure of the communication device 6100 may not be limited by FIG. 6a. The communication device may be a standalone device or may be part of a larger device. For example, the communication device may be: (1) a standalone integrated circuit IC, or chip, or chip system or subsystem; (2) a collection of one or more ICs, optionally, the IC collection may also include storage components for storing data, programs and / or instructions; (3) an ASIC, such as a modem; (4) a module that can be embedded in other devices; (5) a receiver, terminal device, smart terminal device, cellular phone, wireless device, handheld device, mobile unit, vehicle device, network device, cloud device, artificial intelligence device, etc.; (6) others, etc.

[0436] Figure 6b is a schematic diagram of the chip structure proposed in an embodiment of this disclosure. For cases where the communication device 6100 can be a chip or a chip system, please refer to the schematic diagram of the chip 6200 shown in Figure 6b, but it is not limited thereto.

[0437] Chip 6200 includes one or more processors 6201. Chip 6200 is used to perform any of the methods described above.

[0438] In some embodiments, chip 6200 further includes one or more interface circuits 6202. Optionally, terms such as interface circuit, interface, and transceiver pin can be used interchangeably. In some embodiments, chip 6200 further includes one or more memories 6203 for storing data and / or instructions. Optionally, all or part of the memories 6203 may be located outside of chip 6200. Optionally, interface circuit 6202 is connected to memory 6203, and interface circuit 6202 can be used to receive data and / or instructions from memory 6203 or other devices, and interface circuit 6202 can be used to send data and / or instructions to memory 6203 or other devices. For example, interface circuit 6202 can read data and / or instructions stored in memory 6203 and send the data and / or instructions to processor 6201.

[0439] In some embodiments, the interface circuit 6202 performs at least one of the communication steps such as sending and / or receiving in the above-described method (e.g., steps S2101 to S2103, steps S2201 to S2203, but not limited thereto), but not limited thereto. The interface circuit 6202 performing the communication steps such as sending and / or receiving in the above-described method refers, for example, to the interface circuit 6202 performing data and / or instruction interaction between the processor 6201, the chip 6200, the memory 6203, or the transceiver device. In some embodiments, the processor 6201 performs other steps.

[0440] The modules and / or devices described in the various embodiments, such as virtual devices, physical devices, and chips, can be combined or separated arbitrarily as needed. Optionally, some or all steps can also be performed collaboratively by multiple modules and / or devices, which is not limited here.

[0441] This disclosure also proposes a storage medium storing instructions that, when executed on a communication device, cause the communication device to perform any of the above methods. Optionally, the storage medium is an electronic storage medium. Optionally, the storage medium is a computer-readable storage medium, but not limited thereto; it may also be a storage medium readable by other devices. Optionally, the storage medium may be a non-transitory storage medium, but not limited thereto; it may also be a temporary storage medium.

[0442] This disclosure also proposes a program product, including a program and / or instructions, which, when executed by a communication device, cause the communication device to perform any of the above methods. Optionally, the program product is a computer program product. Optionally, the program product is stored on the storage medium.

[0443] This disclosure also proposes a computer program that, when run on a computer, causes the computer to perform any of the above methods.

Claims

1. A communication method characterized by comprising: The method, executed by the first network node, includes: Send a first message, which is used to indicate that the first network node supports the sensing control function.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first information includes at least one of the following: A first identifier, which is used to identify the sensing and control function; The second identifier is used to identify that the first network node supports sensing and control functions; Indication information used to indicate whether the perception control function is enabled; The sensing area supported by the sensing control function; The types of perception supported by the perception control function; The load of the sensing and control function; The quality of service supported by the perception and control function; The perception modes supported by the perception control function.

3. The method according to any one of claims 1-2, characterized in that, The first information is received by the second network node, and the method further includes: Receive a first message sent by the second network node, the first message being used to request the perception service.

4. The method according to claim 3, characterized in that, The first information is carried by the second message, which is a protocol message for communication between the access network and the core network; The second message includes at least one of the following: Interface connection establishment request message; First network node configuration update message; Second network node configuration update confirmation message.

5. The method according to claim 3, characterized in that, Before sending the first information to the second network node, the method further includes: The first network node receives a third message sent by the second network node, the third message being used to request the first network node to send the first information.

6. The method according to any one of claims 1-2, characterized in that, The first information is received by a third network node, and the method further includes: Receive a first message sent by the fourth network node, the first message being used to request the perception service.

7. The method according to claim 6, characterized in that, The first information is carried by a fourth message, which is used to request the registration of the perception control function of the first network node.

8. The method according to any one of claims 6-7, characterized in that, The third network node is a Network Storage Function (NRF); and / or, The fourth network node includes at least one of the following: Sensing service NF; Application Function AF; Access Point (AP); Service-oriented access network equipment; Core network equipment; Service-oriented terminal devices.

9. A communication method, characterized in that, The method, executed by a second network node, includes: Receive first information sent by the first network node, the first information being used to indicate that the first network node supports the sensing control function.

10. The method according to claim 9, characterized in that, The first information includes at least one of the following: A first identifier, which is used to identify the sensing and control function; The second identifier is used to identify that the first network node supports sensing and control functions; Indication information used to indicate whether the perception control function is enabled; The sensing area supported by the sensing control function; The types of perception supported by the perception control function; The load of the sensing and control function; The quality of service supported by the perception and control function; The perception modes supported by the perception control function.

11. The method according to any one of claims 9-10, characterized in that, The method further includes: A first message is sent to the first network node, the first message being used to request the perception service.

12. The method according to any one of claims 9-11, characterized in that, The first information is carried by a second message, which is a protocol message for communication between the access network and the core network; the second message includes at least one of the following: Interface connection establishment request message; First network node configuration update message; Second network node configuration update confirmation message.

13. The method according to any one of claims 9-12, characterized in that, Before receiving the first information, the method further includes: A third message is sent to the first network node, the third message being used to request the first network node to send the first information.

14. The method according to any one of claims 9-13, characterized in that, The second network node includes at least one of the following: Access network equipment (RAN); Access and Mobility Management Functions (AMF); Perceptual function (SF).

15. A communication method, characterized in that, The method, executed by a third network node, includes: Receive first information sent by the first network node, the first information being used to indicate that the first network node supports the sensing control function.

16. The method according to claim 15, characterized in that, The first information includes at least one of the following: A first identifier, which is used to identify the sensing and control function; The second identifier is used to identify that the first network node supports sensing and control functions; Indication information used to indicate whether the perception control function is enabled; The sensing area supported by the sensing control function; The types of perception supported by the perception control function; The load of the sensing and control function; The quality of service supported by the perception and control function; The perception modes supported by the perception control function.

17. The method according to any one of claims 15-16, characterized in that, The first information is carried by a fourth message, which is used to request the registration of the perception control function of the first network node.

18. The method according to any one of claims 15-17, characterized in that, The method further includes: Send a second message to a fourth network node, the second message being used to indicate network nodes that support the perception control function, the network nodes that support the perception control function including the first network node.

19. The method according to claim 18, characterized in that, The third network node is a Network Storage Function (NRF); and / or, The fourth network node includes at least one of the following: Sensing service NF Application Function AF; Access Point (AP); Service-oriented access network equipment; Core network equipment; Service-oriented terminal devices.

20. A communication device, characterized in that, The communication device is used to perform the communication method according to any one of claims 1-8, 9-14, and 15-19.

21. A communication system, characterized in that, The system includes a first network node, a second network node, and a third network node, wherein the first network node is configured to implement the communication method according to claims 1-8, the second network node is configured to implement the communication method according to claims 9-14, and the third network node is configured to implement the communication method according to claims 15-19.

22. A storage medium, characterized in that, The storage medium stores instructions that, when executed on a communication device, cause the communication device to perform the communication method as described in any one of claims 1-8, 9-14, and 15-19.

23. A program product, characterized in that, It includes at least one of a program and instructions, wherein when the program and instructions are executed by a communication device, they implement the communication method according to any one of claims 1-8, 9-14, and 15-19.

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