Communication method and apparatus

Abstract

The present application relates to the technical field of communications, and provides a communication method and apparatus. When executing a first sensing task, a first network element issues positioning information for executing a first positioning task and sensing information for executing the first sensing task. Because the first positioning task is associated with the first sensing task, even if a sensing node executing the first sensing task is in a moving state, location information of the sensing node can be obtained on the basis of the first positioning task, rather than continuously using the initial location of the sensing node at the time of executing the first sensing task to calculate a sensing result. Compared with the prior art, the obtained sensing results are more accurate.

Description

A communication method and apparatus

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202411809001.0, filed on December 9, 2024, entitled "A Communication Method and Apparatus", the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

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

[0004] Wireless sensing technology analyzes changes in wireless signals during propagation to obtain the characteristics of the signal propagation space (channel), enabling scene perception. Integrated sensing and communications (ISAC) combines communication and sensing functions, allowing future communication systems to possess both capabilities. While transmitting information over a wireless channel, the physical characteristics of the surrounding environment are perceived by analyzing the channel's features, thus achieving mutual enhancement of communication and sensing functions.

[0005] Communication equipment can detect a target by repeatedly transmitting sensing signals and receiving echo signals. The communication equipment or core network equipment can determine the target based on the location information of the sensing signal transmitter, the location information of the sensing signal receiver, and reference information of the sensing signal (e.g., wavelength, frequency). However, because the sensing signal transmitter may be moving, multiple detections of the target based solely on the initial position of the sensing signal transmitter will yield inaccurate results. Summary of the Invention

[0006] This application provides a communication method and apparatus to ensure the accuracy of the sensing results obtained when the sensing node performing the sensing task is in a moving state.

[0007] Firstly, this application provides a communication method applicable to a first network element used for the management of sensing services. The first network element can be the network element itself, a component within the network element (e.g., a circuit, processor, chip, or chip system), or a logic module or software implementing all or part of the functions of the first network element. This application does not specifically limit the scope of the method. The method includes:

[0008] Determine the positioning information and sensing information; send the positioning information and sensing information, wherein the positioning information indicates the first time-frequency information for executing the first positioning task, and the sensing information indicates the second time-frequency information for executing the first sensing task, and the first sensing task is associated with the first positioning task.

[0009] In this application, when performing the first sensing task, the first network element sends out positioning information for performing the first positioning task and sensing information for performing the first sensing task. Since the first positioning task and the first sensing task are related, even if the sensing node performing the first sensing task is in a moving state, the position information of the sensing node can be obtained based on the first positioning task, instead of continuously using the initial position of the sensing node performing the first sensing task to calculate the sensing result. Compared with existing technologies, the obtained sensing results are more accurate.

[0010] In one alternative approach, the first time-frequency information includes first time-domain information and first frequency-domain information, the second time-frequency information includes second time-domain information and second frequency-domain information, and the association between the first sensing task and the first positioning task includes: associating the first time-domain information with the second time-domain information, and / or, associating the first frequency-domain information with the second frequency-domain information.

[0011] When the first time-frequency information for performing the first positioning task is correlated with the second time-frequency information for performing the first sensing task, it can be guaranteed that the execution time and / or execution frequency of the first positioning task and the first sensing task are synchronized. Alternatively, the positioning result and the data corresponding to the first sensing task are synchronized. When processing sensing data based on the positioning result and the sensing data corresponding to the first sensing task, it is beneficial to improve the accuracy of the sensing result.

[0012] In an alternative approach, the first network element further sends a first request message, which requests the first sensing node to perform the first sensing task. The first request message includes an identifier of the first sensing task.

[0013] The first network element sends a first request message to obtain information that the first sensing node performing the first sensing task can meet the requirements of the first sensing task.

[0014] In one alternative approach, the first network element also receives first information, which instructs at least one first sensing node to perform the first sensing task.

[0015] Based on this, the first network element can directly obtain at least one first sensing node that performs the first sensing task based on the first information.

[0016] In one alternative approach, the first network element also receives second information indicating the location information of at least one second sensing node; and determines a first sensing node based on the second information, wherein the first sensing node belongs to the second sensing node.

[0017] After the first network element obtains the second information, it filters the second sensing nodes based on the second information to determine the first sensing node to perform the first sensing task, so as to adapt to the needs of the first sensing task.

[0018] In one alternative approach, at least one of the first sensing nodes is a terminal device or has mobility.

[0019] In one alternative approach, the first request message further includes: first indication information, which is used to indicate the acquisition of positioning reference information of the first sensing node.

[0020] Based on this, the first network element can also request the positioning reference information of the first sensing node through the first request message.

[0021] In one alternative approach, the first network element also sends a first instruction message, which is used to instruct the acquisition of the positioning reference information of the first sensing node.

[0022] Based on this, the first network element can also request the positioning reference information of the first sensing node through the first instruction information.

[0023] In one alternative approach, the first network element also receives a second request message, which is used to request the execution of a first sensing service, which is associated with a first sensing task.

[0024] The first network element can clearly define the preconditions for executing the first sensing task based on the second request message.

[0025] In one optional approach, the second request message includes a first requirement corresponding to the first sensing service, and the first network element also obtains the positioning reference information of the first sensing node, which includes at least one positioning method corresponding to the first sensing node, and the first sensing node is a sensing node that performs the first sensing task; the first network element determines the positioning information and sensing information based on the first requirement and the positioning reference information.

[0026] The first network element determines the positioning information and sensing information based on the first requirements of the first sensing task and the positioning reference information of the first sensing node, which better meets the needs of the first sensing task and can ensure that the execution time and / or execution frequency of the first positioning task and the first sensing task are synchronized, which is conducive to improving the accuracy of the sensing results.

[0027] In one alternative approach, the first network element also sends the first request corresponding to the first sensing service to the first sensing node.

[0028] Based on this first sensing node, the first requirement of the first sensing service can be clearly defined.

[0029] In one alternative approach, the first network element receives the positioning reference information corresponding to the first sensing node.

[0030] Based on this, the first network element can determine the positioning information based on the positioning reference information corresponding to the first sensing node.

[0031] In one alternative approach, the positioning method includes one or more of the following: terminal positioning or network positioning.

[0032] In one alternative approach, the first network element determines the first positioning method corresponding to the first positioning task based on the positioning reference information, wherein the first positioning method is one of at least one positioning method.

[0033] In one alternative approach, the first positioning method is terminal positioning, where the first network element sends positioning information and sensing information to the first sensing node.

[0034] In one optional approach, the first positioning method is network positioning, in which the first network element sends sensing information to the first sensing node and positioning information to the positioning network element.

[0035] In one alternative approach, the positioning reference information also includes the positioning accuracy corresponding to the positioning method.

[0036] In one alternative approach, the first network element acquires the sensing results, which are then associated with the positioning information and the sensing information.

[0037] In one alternative approach, the first network element receives the sensing result corresponding to the first sensing node.

[0038] In one alternative approach, the first network element receives sensing data corresponding to the first sensing node; receives the positioning result of the first positioning task; and determines the sensing result based on the sensing data and the positioning result.

[0039] In this application, the first network element can select a positioning method adapted to the requirements of the first sensing service based on the first requirement corresponding to the first sensing service. Then, when executing the first sensing task corresponding to the first sensing service, it can determine a sensing result that meets the first requirement based on this positioning method. For example, if the first sensing service requires high sensing accuracy, terminal positioning supports lower positioning accuracy, while network positioning supports higher positioning accuracy, then network positioning is selected to ensure that the sensing accuracy meets the sensing requirements. If the first sensing service requires lower sensing accuracy, then terminal positioning or network positioning with lower positioning accuracy can be selected, thus saving unnecessary resource overhead associated with high-precision positioning.

[0040] Secondly, this application provides a communication method applicable to a second network element used for the management of sensing services. The second network element can be the second network element itself, a component within the second network element (e.g., a circuit, processor, chip, or chip system), or a logic module or software implementing all or part of the functions of the second network element. This application does not specifically limit the scope here. The method includes:

[0041] Receive sensing data from the first sensing task and positioning results from the first positioning task, the first positioning task being associated with the first sensing task; the sensing data being associated with sensing information, the positioning results being associated with positioning information, the positioning information indicating the first time-frequency information for executing the first positioning task, and the sensing information indicating the second time-frequency information for executing the first sensing task; determine the sensing result based on the sensing data and positioning results.

[0042] Because the first localization task is related to the first sensing task, even if the sensing node performing the first sensing task is in a moving state, its position information can be obtained based on the first localization task, instead of continuously using the initial position of the sensing node when performing the first sensing task to calculate the sensing result. Compared with existing technologies, the obtained sensing results are more accurate.

[0043] In one alternative approach, the first time-frequency information includes first time-domain information and first frequency-domain information, the second time-frequency information includes second time-domain information and second frequency-domain information, and the association between the first sensing task and the first positioning task includes: associating the first time-domain information with the second time-domain information, and / or, associating the first frequency-domain information with the second frequency-domain information.

[0044] Thirdly, this application provides a communication method applicable to a first sensing node, which performs sensing functions and can be understood as a terminal or access network device. The first sensing node can be the first sensing node itself, a component within the first sensing node (e.g., a circuit, processor, chip, or chip system), or a logic module or software implementing all or part of the functions of the first sensing node. This application does not specifically limit the scope of the method. The method includes:

[0045] Acquire sensing information and positioning information. The positioning information indicates the first time-frequency information for executing the first positioning task, and the sensing information indicates the second time-frequency information for executing the first sensing task. The first sensing task is associated with the first positioning task. Execute the first sensing task based on the sensing information.

[0046] In one alternative approach, the first time-frequency information includes first time-domain information and first frequency-domain information, the second time-frequency information includes second time-domain information and second frequency-domain information, and the association between the first sensing task and the first positioning task includes: associating the first time-domain information with the second time-domain information, and / or, associating the first frequency-domain information with the second frequency-domain information.

[0047] In one alternative approach, the first sensing node receives sensing information and positioning information from the first network element.

[0048] In one alternative approach, the first sensing node receives a first request corresponding to a first sensing service, and the first sensing service is associated with a first sensing task; based on the first request, sensing information and positioning information are determined.

[0049] In one alternative approach, the first sensing node also performs a first positioning task based on the positioning information.

[0050] Fourthly, embodiments of this application provide a communication device, which can be a first network element, a second network element, a first sensing node, or a device combining the first and second network elements. The communication device has the functions described in the first to third aspects. For example, the communication device includes modules, units, or means corresponding to the steps involved in the first to third aspects. These functions, units, or means can be implemented by software, hardware, or hardware executing corresponding software.

[0051] In one possible design, the communication device includes a processing unit and a transceiver unit. The transceiver unit can be used to send and receive signals to enable communication between the communication device and other devices. The processing unit can be used to perform some internal operations of the communication device. The transceiver unit can be called an input / output unit, a communication unit, etc., and can be a transceiver; the processing unit can be a processor. When the communication device is a module (e.g., a chip) in a communication device, the transceiver unit can be an input / output interface, input / output circuit, or input / output pins, etc., and can also be called an interface, communication interface, or interface circuit, etc.; the processing unit can be a processor, processing circuit, or logic circuit, etc.

[0052] In another possible design, the communication device includes a processor and may further include a transceiver for transmitting and receiving signals. The processor executes program instructions to perform the methods in any of the possible designs or implementations of the first to third aspects described above. The communication device may also include one or more memories coupled to the processor, which may store necessary computer programs or instructions for implementing the functions involved in the first to third aspects described above. The processor can execute the computer programs or instructions stored in the memory, and when the computer programs or instructions are executed, the communication device implements the methods in any of the possible designs or implementations of the first to third aspects described above.

[0053] In another possible design, the communication device includes a processor that can be coupled to a memory. The memory can store necessary computer programs or instructions for implementing the functions described in the first to third aspects above. The processor can execute the computer programs or instructions stored in the memory, causing the communication device to implement the methods in any possible design or implementation of the first to third aspects above when the computer programs or instructions are executed.

[0054] In another possible design, the communication device includes a processor and an interface circuit, wherein the processor is configured to communicate with other devices via the interface circuit and to perform the methods in any of the possible designs or implementations of the first to third aspects described above.

[0055] Understandably, in the fourth aspect mentioned above, the processor can be implemented in hardware or software. When implemented in hardware, the processor can be a logic circuit, integrated circuit, etc.; when implemented in software, the processor can be a general-purpose processor that reads software code stored in memory. Furthermore, there can be one or more processors, and one or more memories. The memory can be integrated with the processor, or the memory and processor can be separate. In specific implementations, the memory can be integrated with the processor on the same chip, or it can be set on different chips. This application does not limit the type of memory or the arrangement of the memory and processor.

[0056] Fifthly, embodiments of this application provide a communication system comprising the aforementioned first network element, second network element, and first sensing node. The first network element can be used to execute the method in the first aspect, the second network element can be used to execute the method in the second aspect, and the first sensing node can be used to execute the method in the third aspect. Furthermore, it should be noted that each aspect may involve processes executed interactively by multiple devices or network elements; the corresponding processes cannot be executed by a single device or network element. Instead, they are executed primarily through the interaction of corresponding devices or network elements, which will not be elaborated upon here.

[0057] Sixthly, this application provides a chip system including a processor and potentially a memory, for implementing the methods described in the first to third aspects above. The chip system may be composed of chips or may include chips and other discrete devices.

[0058] In a seventh aspect, this application also provides a computer-readable storage medium storing computer-readable instructions that, when executed on a computer, cause the computer to perform the methods described in the first to third aspects.

[0059] Eighthly, this application provides a computer program product containing instructions that, when run on a computer, cause the computer to perform the methods of the embodiments of the first to third aspects described above.

[0060] The technical effects that can be achieved by the second to eighth aspects mentioned above can be referred to the description of the technical effects that can be achieved by the corresponding possible design schemes in the first aspect mentioned above, and will not be repeated here. Attached Figure Description

[0061] Figure 1 shows a schematic diagram of a communication system;

[0062] Figure 2A shows a schematic diagram of yet another communication system;

[0063] Figure 2B shows a schematic diagram of another communication system;

[0064] Figure 3 shows a schematic diagram of an ISAC scenario;

[0065] Figure 4 shows a schematic diagram of a dual-base sensing method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0066] Figure 5 shows a schematic diagram of a single-base sensing method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0067] Figure 6 shows a flowchart of a sensing method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0068] Figure 7 shows a flowchart of a sensing method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0069] Figure 8 shows a flowchart of a sensing method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0070] Figure 9 shows a flowchart of a sensing method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0071] Figure 10 is a schematic diagram of a communication device structure provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0072] Figure 11 is a schematic diagram of a communication device structure provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0073] Figure 12 is a schematic diagram of a communication device structure provided in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0074] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of this application, and not all of them.

[0075] In this application embodiment, "at least one" refers to one or more, and "more than one" refers to two or more. "And / or" describes the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A alone, A and B simultaneously, or B alone, where A and B can be singular or plural. The character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects are in an "or" relationship. "At least one of the following" or similar expressions refer to any combination of these dozen or more items, including any combination of single or plural items. For example, at least one of a, b, or c can represent: a, b, c, ab, ac, bc, or abc, where a, b, and c can be single or multiple.

[0076] Furthermore, unless otherwise stated, the ordinal numbers such as "first" and "second" mentioned in the embodiments of this application are used to distinguish multiple objects and are not used to limit the order, sequence, priority, or importance of multiple objects. For example, "first waveform" and "second waveform" are only used to distinguish different types, and do not indicate a difference in priority or importance between the two sizes.

[0077] In the embodiments of this application, "send" and "receive" indicate the direction of signal transmission. For example, "send information to XX" can be understood as the destination of the information being XX, which may include direct transmission via the air interface or indirect transmission by other units or modules via the air interface. "Receive information from YY" can be understood as the source of the information being YY, which may include direct reception from YY via the air interface or indirect reception from YY by other units or modules via the air interface. "Send" can also be understood as the "output" of the chip interface, and "receive" can also be understood as the "input" of the chip interface. In other words, sending and receiving can occur between devices, such as between network devices and terminal devices, or within a device, such as between components, modules, chips, software modules, or hardware modules within the device via a bus, wiring, or interface. It is understood that information may undergo necessary processing, such as encoding and modulation, between the source and destination of information transmission, but the destination can understand the valid information from the source. Similar expressions in this application can be understood in a similar way and will not be repeated here.

[0078] In the embodiments of this application, "when," "if," and "if" all refer to the device taking corresponding actions under certain objective circumstances, not a time limit, nor do they require the device to perform a judgment action, nor do they imply any other limitations. Unless otherwise specified, "if" and "if" are interchangeable, and "when" and "in the case of" are interchangeable. "When" and "if" / "if" are interchangeable. In the embodiments of this application, "*" can be used to represent "multiplication."

[0079] The ordinal numbers such as "first" and "second" mentioned in the embodiments of this application are used to distinguish multiple objects and are not used to limit the size, content, order, timing, priority, or importance of the multiple objects. For example, the first sequence and the second sequence refer to two different sequences, and do not indicate that the content, priority, or importance of these two sequences are different. Words such as "exemplary" or "for example" are used to indicate that they are examples, illustrations, or explanations. Any embodiment or design that is described as "exemplary" or "for example" in this application should not be construed as being better or more advantageous than other embodiments or design solutions. Specifically, the use of words such as "exemplary" or "for example" is intended to present the relevant concepts in a specific manner.

[0080] Furthermore, the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, so that a process, method, system, product, or apparatus that comprises a list of units is not necessarily limited to those units, but may include other units not expressly listed or inherent to those processes, methods, products, or apparatuses. The methods and apparatuses provided in the embodiments of this application are based on the same or similar technical concepts. Since the principles by which the methods and apparatuses solve the problems are similar, implementations of the apparatus and methods can be referred to mutually, and repeated details will not be elaborated further.

[0081] The method provided in this application embodiment can be applied to various mobile communication systems, such as the Internet of Things (IoT), narrowband Internet of Things (NB-IoT), and fourth-generation (4G) mobile communication systems. th Generation 4G communication systems (e.g., Long Term Evolution, LTE) can also be fifth-generation (5G) communication systems. th The 5G communication system can be a generation (e.g., 5G New Radio (NR)), or a hybrid architecture of LTE and NR, or a new communication system that will emerge in the future development of communication.

[0082] Figure 1 illustrates a schematic diagram of a mobile communication network architecture, which includes terminals, network devices, access and mobility management functions, session management functions, user plane functions, policy control functions, network slice selection functions, network slice-specific authentication and authorization functions, network repository functions, network data analysis functions, unified data management functions, unified data storage functions, authentication service functions, network capability opening functions, terminal wireless capability management functions, binding support functions, application functions, and a data network (DN) connecting to the operator's network. Terminals can access the wireless network through the access node at their current location. Terminals can send service data to and receive service data from the data network through network devices and user plane functions.

[0083] A terminal can be a device capable of receiving network device scheduling and instruction information, providing voice and / or data connectivity to users, or a handheld device with wireless connectivity, or other processing devices connected to a wireless modem. Terminal devices can communicate with one or more core networks or the Internet via radio access network (RAN) equipment. For example, a terminal device can be a portable, pocket-sized, handheld, computer-embedded, or vehicle-mounted mobile device. Terminal devices can also be referred to as subscriber units (SS), subscriber stations (MS), mobile stations (MS), remote stations (AP), access points (AP), remote terminals, access terminals, user agents, customer premises equipment (CPE), terminals, user equipment (UE), mobile terminals (MT), etc. Terminal devices can also be wearable devices. Terminal devices can also be equipment in next-generation communication systems. For example, terminal equipment in 5G networks or terminal equipment in future evolved public land mobile networks (PLMNs), terminal equipment in NR communication systems, etc.Currently, terminal devices can include: mobile phones, tablets, laptops, PDAs, customer-premises equipment (CPE), mobile internet devices (MID), wearable devices (such as smartwatches, smart bracelets, pedometers, etc.), in-vehicle equipment (such as cars, bicycles, electric vehicles, airplanes, ships, trains, high-speed trains, etc.), virtual reality (VR) devices, augmented reality (AR) devices, wireless terminals in industrial control, smart home devices (such as refrigerators, televisions, air conditioners, electricity meters, etc.), intelligent robots, workshop equipment, wireless terminals in self-driving, wireless terminals in remote medical surgery, wireless terminals in smart grids, wireless terminals in transportation safety, wireless terminals in smart cities, or wireless terminals in smart homes, and flying equipment (such as intelligent robots, hot air balloons, drones, airplanes), etc. A terminal can also be other devices with terminal functions. For example, a terminal device can also be a device that performs terminal functions in D2D (device-to-device) communication.

[0084] Network equipment is an entity on the network side used to transmit or receive signals. Examples include transmission reception points (TRPs) and 5G base stations (gnodeBs, gNBs). Network equipment can also be non-terrestrial network (NTN) equipment with all or part of the functions of access network equipment, such as satellites and drones. Network equipment can be an access point (AP) in a wireless local area network (WLAN), a base transceiver station (BTS) in a global system for mobile communication (GSM) or code division multiple access (CDMA), a base station (nodeB, NB) in wideband code division multiple access (WCDMA), or an evolved Node B (eNB or eNodeB) in LTE. Network equipment can also be a relay station or access point, or vehicle-mounted equipment, wearable devices, network equipment in 5G networks, network equipment in future evolved PLMNs, or gNodeB / gNB equipment in NR systems. In some deployments, a gNB may include a central unit (CU) and a distributed unit (DU). The CU implements some of the gNB's functions, and the DU implements others. For example, the CU is responsible for handling non-real-time protocols and services, such as implementing radio resource control (RRC), service data adaptation protocol (SDAP) functions, and packet data convergence protocol (PDCP) layer functions. The DU is responsible for handling physical layer protocols and real-time services, such as implementing radio link control (RLC), medium access control (MAC), and physical (PHY) layer functions. The gNB may also include an active antenna unit (AAU). The AAU implements some physical layer processing functions, radio frequency processing, and related active antenna functions.Since information from the RRC layer ultimately becomes information from the PHY layer, or is derived from information from the PHY layer, in this architecture, higher-layer signaling (e.g., RRC layer signaling) can also be considered as being sent by the DU, or by the DU and AAU. It is understood that network devices can be one or more of the following: CU nodes, DU nodes, and AAU nodes. Furthermore, the CU can be a network device in the RAN, or a network device in the core network (CN); this application does not limit this. Additionally, in this embodiment, the network device provides services to a cell, and the terminal device communicates with the network device through the transmission resources (e.g., frequency domain resources, or spectrum resources) used by the cell. The cell can be the cell corresponding to the network device (e.g., a base station). The cell can belong to a macro base station or a base station corresponding to a small cell. For example, a small cell can include: a metro cell, a micro cell, a pico cell, a femto cell, etc. Because small cells have small coverage areas and low transmission power, they can provide high-speed data transmission services. Furthermore, in other possible cases, the network device can be any other device that provides wireless communication functionality to the terminal device. The embodiments of this application do not limit the specific technology or device form used in the network device. For example, in an open radio access network (ORAN) system, CU can also be called O-CU (open CU), DU can also be called O-DU, CU-CP can also be called O-CU-CP, CU-UP can also be called O-CU-UP, and RU can also be called O-RU. For ease of description, this application uses CU, CU-CP, CU-UP, DU, and RU as examples. Any of the units among CU (or CU-CP, CU-UP), DU, and RU in this application can be implemented through a software module, a hardware module, or a combination of software and hardware modules.

[0085] Access and mobility management functions are primarily used for terminal attachment, mobility management, and tracking area update procedures in mobile networks. In 5G communication systems, the access and mobility management function may be called the access and mobility management function (AMF). In future communication systems, the access and mobility management function may still be called AMF, or it may have other names; this application is not limited to these.

[0086] Session management functions are primarily used for session management in mobile networks, such as session creation, modification, and release. Specific functions include assigning Internet Protocol (IP) addresses to terminals and selecting user plane functions that provide packet forwarding capabilities. In 5G communication systems, the session management function can be a session management function (SMF). In future communication systems, the session management function may still be called an SMF, or it may have other names; this application is not limited to these. This application also relates to a multicast / broadcast session management network element, which can be a multicast / broadcast-session management function (MB-SMF), primarily used for session management in mobile networks, such as session creation, modification, and release.

[0087] User plane functions are primarily used for processing user packets, such as forwarding and billing. In 5G communication systems, user plane functions can be user plane functions (UPFs). In future communication systems, user plane functions may still be called UPFs, or they may have other names; this application does not limit this.

[0088] Policy control functions include policy control functions, billing policy control functions, and quality of service (QoS) control. In 5G communication systems, policy control functions can be policy control functions (PCF). In future communication systems, policy control functions may still be called PCF, or they may have other names; this application is not limited to these.

[0089] The network slice selection function is mainly used to select a suitable network slice for the terminal's services. In 5G communication systems, the network slice selection function can be called the network slice selection function (NSSF). In future communication systems, the network slice selection function may still be called NSSF, or it may have other names; this application is not limited to these names.

[0090] The network slice-specific authentication and authorization function (NSSAAF) is mainly used for authentication and authorization of terminal access to specific network slices.

[0091] The network repository function is primarily used to provide registration and discovery of network functions or the services provided by network functions. In 5G communication systems, the network repository function may be a network repository function (NRF). In future communication systems, the network repository function may still be called NRF, or it may have other names; this application is not limited to these.

[0092] The network data analytics function can collect, analyze, and predict data from various network functions, such as policy control, session management, user plane, access management, and application functions (through network capability exposure). In 5G communication systems, the network data analytics function may be a network data analytics function (NWDAF). In future communication systems, the network data analytics function may still be called NWDAF, or it may have other names; this application is not limited to these names.

[0093] The unified data management function is mainly used to manage the subscription information of terminals. In 5G communication systems, the unified data management function can be a unified data management (UDM) function. In future communication systems, the unified data management function may still be a UDM function, or it may have other names. This application is not limited to this.

[0094] The unified data storage function is primarily used to store structured data information, including subscription information, policy information, and network data or service data with standardized format definitions. In 5G communication systems, the unified data storage function can be a unified data repository (UDR) function. In future communication systems, the unified data storage function may still be a UDR function, or it may have other names; this application is not limited to these.

[0095] The authentication service function is mainly used for secure authentication of terminals. In 5G communication systems, the authentication service function can be an authentication server function (AUSF). In future communication systems, the authentication service function may still be called AUSF, or it may have other names; this application is not limited to these.

[0096] Network capability exposure (NEF) allows for the controlled exposure of certain network functions to applications. In 5G communication systems, NEF may be used. In future communication systems, NEF may still be used, or it may have other names; this application does not limit this.

[0097] A terminal radio capability management function is used to store and manage the radio capabilities of terminals within a network. In 5G communication systems, the terminal radio capability management function may be a user equipment radio capability management function (UCMF). In future communication systems, the terminal radio capability management function may still be called UCMF, or it may have other names; this application is not limited to any particular name.

[0098] A binding support function is used to maintain the mapping between internet protocol (IP) addresses and service functions for interconnecting user networks. In 5G communication systems, the binding support function may be a binding support function (BSF). In future communication systems, the binding support function may still be called a BSF, or it may have other names; this application is not limited to these.

[0099] Application functions can provide various application service data to the control plane functions of the operator's communication network, or obtain network data and control information from the control plane functions of the communication network. In 5G communication systems, application functions can be application functions (AF). In future communication systems, application functions may still be AF, or they may have other names; this application is not limited to any particular name.

[0100] Data networks are primarily used to provide data transmission services to terminals. Data networks can be private networks, such as local area networks (LANs), public data networks (PDNs), such as the Internet, or dedicated networks deployed by carriers, such as configured IP multimedia core network subsystems (IMS) services.

[0101] It should be noted that the functions in the embodiments of this application may also be referred to as network elements, network functions, functional entities, devices, etc. For example, access and mobility management functions may also be referred to as access and mobility management network elements, or access and mobility management network functions, or access and mobility management functional entities, etc. The names of each function are not limited in this application. Those skilled in the art can replace the names of the above functions with other names to perform the same function, and all such replacements are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0102] To better adapt to sensing applications, the service-oriented architecture provided in this application introduces a sensing function (SF). This SF can manage sensing tasks or processes, such as issuing sensing-related signaling, and can also acquire and / or process sensing data. As shown in Figure 2A, the SF establishes interfaces and interacts with 5GC network elements such as AMF, NEF, UDM, NWDAF, PCF, location management function (LMF), and UPF. Sensing control signaling between the SF and RAN / UE is transmitted through the AMF. Sensing data acquired by the RAN / UE can be transmitted to the SF via the control plane or user plane. The user plane data can be forwarded via the UPF or directly transmitted to the SF. Furthermore, it must support sensing charging in scenarios where the UE performs sensing and the RAN performs sensing. The sensing function establishes interfaces and interacts with 5GC network elements such as AMF, NEF, UDM, NWDAF, PCF, LMF, and UPF, as specifically defined below:

[0103] 1) NS1: A new NS1 interface is added between SF and AMF. This interface can transmit sensing control signaling; for scenarios where sensing measurement data is uploaded from the control plane, this interface can also transmit sensing measurement data.

[0104] 2) NS2: A new NS2 interface is added between SF and NEF. This interface can transmit signaling messages between the sensing network element relayed through NEF and the service side AF (Application Function), and at the same time open the sensing results to AF.

[0105] 3) NS3: A new NS3 interface is added between SF and UDM. Through this interface, authentication or authorization can be achieved, and UE-aware subscription information, service AMF information or other information can be obtained.

[0106] 4) NS4: A new NS4 interface is added between SF and NWDAF. Through this interface, the sensing network element can work with NWDAF to complete artificial intelligence (AI) processing related to sensing services.

[0107] 5) NS5: A new NS5 interface is added between SF and PCF. Through this interface, the sensing network element can transmit information such as sensing requirements, QoS requirements or sensing results of sensing services to PCF. PCF then makes decisions to generate policies and charging control (PCC) policies related to sensing services.

[0108] 6) NS6: A new NS6 interface is added between SF and LMF. Through this interface, sensing network elements can obtain location-related information, such as sensing area, RAN information of sensing target, and location information of sensing UE.

[0109] 7) NS7: The SF and user plane functions have added an NS7 interface. Sensing measurement data can be directly transmitted from (R)AN to the sensing network element via the user plane function, or it can be indirectly forwarded to the sensing network element via UPF. If the (R)AN performs sensing in a scenario and forwards the data via UPF, the UPF needs to be modified to support RAN-level data transmission.

[0110] In addition to the newly added interfaces mentioned above, existing interfaces (such as N1, N2, N5, N8, N33, etc.) must support the transmission of information related to sensing services, such as authentication information, sensing service type, sensing service quality requirements, sensing measurement data, and sensing results.

[0111] If the sensing function is co-located with the LMF, an additional interface can be added between the LMF and the gateway mobile location center (GMLC) to transmit sensing service-related information, such as the NL1 interface between the AMF and the LMF, and the NL2 interface between the AMF and the GMLC.

[0112] Figure 2B illustrates that the sensing network elements include SF-C and SF-U. SF-C manages sensing tasks or processes, such as issuing sensing-related signaling, while SF-U acquires and / or processes sensing data. For example, there may be multiple SF-Cs and SF-Us; one SF-C may correspond to multiple SF-Us. The specific number of SF-Cs and SF-Us is not limited here; only one SF-C and one SF-U are used as an example. Specifically, the 3GPP UE accesses the gNB through the Uu interface, the gNB accesses the UPF through the N3 interface, the UPF accesses the SF-U through the NS8 interface, and the SF-U accesses the SF-C through the NS7 interface. The Non-3GPP UE accesses the UPF through N3GPP access, the UPF accesses the SF-U through the NS8 interface, and the SF-U accesses the SF-C through the NS7 interface. The NWDAF and SF-U transmit messages through the NS9 interface.

[0113] For example, the SF-C described above is used to implement one or more of the following functions:

[0114] 1) Perception of business / task management, specifically, perception of business / task management includes the orchestration and scheduling of business / tasks.

[0115] 2) Perception business authorization and authentication.

[0116] 3) Sensing task management, such as sensing task creation, sensing task updating, or sensing task completion.

[0117] 4) Sensing target area conversion, for example, if the sensing target area is a geographical area, the geographical area is mapped to the cell / tracking area (TA) covered by the base station.

[0118] 5) Perception mode and perception QoS policy control.

[0119] 6) Sensing and controlling prohibited areas.

[0120] 7) Selection of AMF and SF-U.

[0121] 8) Billing and generating perceived call detail records.

[0122] For example, the SF-U described above is used to implement one or more of the following functions:

[0123] 1) Receive point cloud data and perform data processing on the point cloud data (e.g., clustering, tracking filtering, generating perception results (target recognition, target trajectory, etc.)).

[0124] 2) Multi-station sensing service support, such as stitching and tracking trajectories sensed by multiple base stations.

[0125] 3) Multidimensional sensing computing, such as computing on radar data and video data.

[0126] 4) Access management of multi-dimensional devices.

[0127] 5) Subscribe to / report / query the perception results.

[0128] To better illustrate the solution of this application, the technical terms involved in this application are explained below:

[0129] 1)ISAC

[0130] ISAC integrates communication and sensing functions, enabling future communication systems to simultaneously possess both capabilities. While transmitting information over a wireless channel, it actively recognizes and analyzes channel characteristics to perceive the physical features of the surrounding environment, thus enhancing the mutual capabilities of communication and sensing. Communication refers to the transmission of information between two or more communication devices. Sensing refers to detecting parameters of the physical environment based on communication signals, such as ranging and speed measurement. As shown in Figure 3, the base station's transmitted signals can be used to sense information about the surrounding environment, assisting in the design of communication links to avoid obstacles (such as cars) and improve communication performance.

[0131] ISAC employs a sensing signal that simultaneously meets the requirements of communication and sensing signals. For example, an orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) signal. The ISAC transmitter transmits an OFDM signal to the target to be sensed (hereinafter also referred to as a scatterer; the target and scatterer are interchangeable and will not be elaborated upon here). The OFDM signal is reflected by the target, generating an echo signal. The echo signal and the transmitted signal have a time delay. At the ISAC receiver, a range profile is obtained by performing time-domain or frequency-domain digital signal processing on the echo and transmitted signals. Then, a time delay estimate is obtained by searching for peak values ​​in the range profile. Finally, the distance to the target is determined based on the time delay estimate.

[0132] 2) Perception Mode

[0133] Sensing is divided into two-base sensing and single-base sensing. Two-base sensing involves two sensing devices (or sensing nodes; the terms "sensing device" and "sensing node" are interchangeable in this text). One sensing device transmits a signal, which is reflected by the target, and the other sensing device receives the signal to obtain the sensing result. Single-base sensing involves one sensing device. After the signal is transmitted, it is reflected by the target, and the sensing device receives the reflected signal to obtain the sensing result (also called scatterer information or sensing data). The sensing result includes information such as signal transmission distance, relative velocity of the target, angle of the target relative to the antenna receiving array, or signal strength, etc., which are only illustrative examples and not specific limitations. The sensing device can determine the location information of the target based on the sensing result, and can also directly report the sensing result to other devices so that other devices can determine the location information of the target. The specific application of the sensing result is not limited here.

[0134] The schematic diagrams of dual-base sensing can be understood by referring to Figure 4. Figure 4(a) shows a car as the sensing target within the sensing area, a base station as the transmitting sensing device, and a UE as the receiving sensing device. After the base station transmits a signal, it is reflected by the car to obtain a reflected signal, which is then received by the UE to obtain the sensing result. Figure 4(b) shows a car as the sensing target within the sensing area, a UE as the transmitting sensing device, and a base station as the receiving sensing device. After the UE transmits a signal, it is reflected by the car to obtain a reflected signal, which is then received by the base station to obtain the sensing result. Figure 4(c) shows a car as the sensing target within the sensing area, base station 1 as the transmitting sensing device, and base station 2 as the receiving sensing device. After base station 1 transmits a signal, it is reflected by the car to obtain a reflected signal, which is then received by base station 2 to obtain the sensing result. Figure 4(d) shows a car as the sensing target within the sensing area, UE1 as the transmitting sensing device, and UE2 as the receiving sensing device. After UE1 transmits a signal, it is reflected by the car to obtain a reflected signal, which is then received by UE2 to obtain the sensing result. In Figure 4(e), the sensing device needs to receive instructions from the control device before it can transmit a signal. The control device is the base station, the transmitting sensing device is UE1, the receiving sensing device is UE2, and the sensing target within the sensing area is a car. After the base station sends a signal transmission instruction to UE1, UE1 transmits a signal, which is reflected by the car to obtain a reflected signal, which is then received by UE2. UE2 reports the sensing results based on the base station's instructions. In Figure 4(f), the sensing device needs to receive instructions from the control device before it can transmit a signal. The control device is base station 3, the transmitting sensing device is base station 1, the receiving sensing device is base station 2, and the sensing target within the sensing area is a car. After base station 3 sends a signal transmission instruction to base station 1, base station 1 transmits a signal, which is reflected by the car to obtain a reflected signal, which is then received by base station 2. Base station 2 reports the sensing results based on the instructions from base station 3.

[0135] A schematic diagram of single-base sensing can be understood by referring to Figure 5. Figure 5(a) shows a car as the sensing target within the sensing area and a base station as the sensing device. After the base station transmits a signal, it is reflected by the car to obtain a reflected signal, which is then received by the base station to acquire the sensing result. Figure 5(b) shows a car as the sensing target within the sensing area and a UE as the sensing device. After the UE transmits a signal, it is reflected by the car to obtain a reflected signal, which is then received by the UE to acquire the sensing result.

[0136] It should be noted that the base station in Figures 4 and 5 above can also be replaced by an SF, or the base station and SF can be coupled as the same device, or the base station and SF can be separate devices. The base station receives parameters of the sensing signal (e.g., an OFDM signal at frequency F1) from the SF, or the base station receives parameters of the sensing signal from the SF through an AMF. Afterwards, the base station performs corresponding sensing operations based on the parameters of the sensing signal. This application does not specifically limit this.

[0137] As shown in Figure 4(b), the UE sends a sensing signal to the car, and the base station receives the sensing signal reflected by the car and obtains the sensing result. If the UE is in a moving state, the sensing result determined based on the UE's initial position is inaccurate when detecting the sensing target multiple times. Based on this, this application provides a communication method to ensure the accuracy of the sensing result obtained when the sensing node performing the sensing task is in a moving state.

[0138] Referring to Figure 6, the following example illustrates the data interaction between the first network element, the first sensing node, and the sensing requester. Exemplarily, a positioning network element is also included. The first network element, used for managing sensing services, can be understood as the SF in Figure 2A above, or as SF-C in Figure 2B above; this is merely illustrative and not specifically limited. The first sensing node, used to perform communication sensing, can be understood as a terminal or access network device; this is not specifically limited. The first sensing node may include one or more, wherein at least one of the first sensing nodes is a terminal device or has mobility. The sensing requester, used to request sensing services, can be understood as a service requester; in specific applications, it can be an application server; this is merely illustrative and not specifically limited. The positioning network element, used to locate the first sensing node, can be understood as an LMF; this is not specifically limited. The execution is as follows:

[0139] Step 601: The sensing request direction sends a second request message to the first network element. Correspondingly, the first network element receives the second request message.

[0140] The sensing requester can be a terminal or an application function, without specific limitations. For example, if the sensing requester is an application function, it can directly send the second request message to the first network element, or it can send the second request message to the first network element through a network capability open function (e.g., NEF). For example, if the sensing requester is a terminal, the terminal can directly send the second request message to the first network element, or it can send the second request message to the first network element through an access and mobility management network element (e.g., AMF). This is merely an illustrative example and not a specific limitation.

[0141] The second request message is used to request the execution of the first sensing service. The second request message may also be called a sensing service request message or a sensing request message; this is only illustrative and not specifically limited. This second request message can reuse existing service request messages, or it can be a new type of message used to request the execution of the first sensing service; this is not specifically limited here.

[0142] For example, sensing services may include various types, such as target localization, target profiling (or target contour description), and target motion analysis. The first sensing service may be one or more of these sensing service types. No specific limitation is made here.

[0143] The second request message indicates the sensing range (or sensing area, sensing geographic coordinates, etc.) of the first sensing service. For example, the second request message may include the sensing range of the first sensing service, or it may include a first parameter corresponding to the first sensing service, wherein the first parameter includes the sensing range. For example, the second request message may also indicate a first requirement of the first sensing service. For instance, the second request message may include the first requirement, or it may include a second parameter that includes the first requirement. This is merely an illustrative example.

[0144] As an example, the first requirement includes the perception accuracy (or perception granularity, perception fineness, etc.) corresponding to the first perception service. For example, determining the overall outline of a perceived target A (e.g., a car) and determining the outline of a component of the perceived target A require different perception accuracies. Optionally, the first requirement also includes the latency range (or latency accuracy, latency requirement, etc.) corresponding to the first perception service. For example, the latency for executing the first perception service is 50 milliseconds. This is merely illustrative and not specifically limiting.

[0145] For example, the first requirement of the first sensing service can be sent by the sensing requester to the first network element. Alternatively, it can be the sensing requirement adjusted by the network opening function or access and mobility management network element after the sensing requester sends the first sensing service's sensing requirement to the network opening function or access and mobility management network element, and then the network opening function or access and mobility management network element sends the adjusted sensing requirement back to the first network element as the first requirement. For example, if the sensing requirement of the first sensing service includes a sensing latency of 10 milliseconds, and the network opening function or access and mobility management network element believes that a sensing latency of 8 milliseconds can meet the sensing requirement of the first sensing service and facilitates the first network element in obtaining sensing nodes with stronger sensing capabilities to perform sensing, then the sensing latency is set to 8 milliseconds or 10 milliseconds in the first requirement. The first requirement can be the same as the sensing requirement of the first sensing service, or it can be set to a higher level than the sensing requirement of the first sensing service; this is not specifically limited here.

[0146] After receiving the second request message, the first network element determines to execute a first sensing task. This first sensing task is associated with a first sensing service. For example, if the first sensing service is target localization and the corresponding sensing range is A, then the first sensing task is target localization within region A. This is merely an example and not a specific limitation. The first sensing task can be indicated based on its identifier. The identifier of the first sensing task can indicate the sensing range of the first sensing service, the first requirement of the first sensing service, etc., but is not specifically limited here.

[0147] Step 601 above is optional. In one possible implementation, the first sensing service is a periodically executed task; therefore, the sensing requester only executes step 601 when the first sensing service is executed for the first time or when the first sensing service is adjusted. Step 601 is not required during other periods when the first sensing service is executed. In another possible implementation, a sensing network element requests the first network element to execute the first sensing service due to equipment failure or performance upgrade needs; therefore, step 601 is not executed. This is merely illustrative and not specifically limiting.

[0148] After the first network element obtains the first sensing service, it determines that the first sensing task needs to be executed. First, it identifies the first sensing node to execute the first sensing task and executes step 602.

[0149] Step 602: The first network element determines at least one first sensing node to perform the first sensing task.

[0150] In one possible implementation, the sensing node (or sensing device, as described in Figures 4 or 5 above, and not repeated here) registers its sensing capability information (e.g., sensing range, sensing accuracy, etc.) in a registration request. This sensing capability information is stored in the sensing node's context. The first network element can request multiple sensing nodes within the sensing range of the first sensing task from the access and mobility management network element (AMF). After determining at least one first sensing node, the AMF directly feeds back to the first network element. Here, the AMF is a network element that stores the context of the sensing nodes, such as an AMF. Exemplarily, the first network element sends a first request message to the AMF, requesting the first sensing node to perform the first sensing task. This first request message includes an identifier for the first sensing task. It may also include the sensing range of the first sensing task. After obtaining the first request message, the AMF sends a first request message to the sensing node (terminal, and / or access network device) corresponding to the AMF to obtain the sensing node's sensing capability information and location information. Subsequently, the access and mobility management network element determines first information based on the sensing capability information of the sensing node. This first information indicates at least one first sensing node corresponding to the first sensing task. The access and mobility management network element sends the information about the at least one first sensing node performing the first sensing task to the first network element, so that the first network element can obtain information about the at least one first sensing node performing the first sensing task. The sensing node corresponding to the access and mobility management network element can be a sensing node registered with the access and mobility management network element, or a sensing node within the coverage area of ​​the access and mobility management network element. This will be understood in the following text if relevant, and will not be elaborated upon here. The first information may include a list of identifiers for the first sensing nodes, or may include parameter A, where parameter A corresponds to the list of identifiers for the first sensing nodes.

[0151] In another implementation, a first network element requests at least one first sensing node to perform a first sensing task from an access and mobility management network element (such as an AMF). The access and mobility management network element feeds back information about multiple sensing nodes to the first network element. The first network element determines at least one first sensing node based on the information about multiple sensing nodes fed back by the access and mobility management network element. For example, the first network element sends a first request message to the access and mobility management network element, which requests the first sensing node to perform the first sensing task. This first request message includes an identifier for the first sensing task. The first request message may also include the sensing range of the first sensing task. After obtaining the first request message, the access and mobility management network element sends a first request message to the sensing node corresponding to the access and mobility management network element to obtain the sensing capability information and location information of the sensing node. Then, the access and mobility management network element sends second information to the first network element, which indicates the location information of at least one second sensing node. The first network element then determines the first sensing node based on the second information, and the first sensing node belongs to the second sensing node. The first network element can determine the second sensing node based on the location information of the second sensing node and the sensing range corresponding to the first sensing task, and designate the second sensing node within the sensing range, or the second sensing node that is close to the sensing range (not exceeding a preset distance threshold), as the first sensing node. The aforementioned second information may include a list of identifiers for the second sensing node and the location information corresponding to the second sensing node, or may include parameter B, where parameter B corresponds to the list of identifiers for the second sensing node and the location information of the second sensing node. The location information may be a location indicated by world geographic coordinates, a cell representation, or a tracking area, etc., and is not specifically limited here. For example, the second information may also include positioning reference information for the second sensing node.

[0152] The aforementioned first request message may also be referred to as a sensing node request message or a sensing request message; this is merely illustrative and not specifically limited. This first request message can reuse existing context request messages, or it can be a new type of message used to request the first sensing node; this is not specifically limited here.

[0153] In addition, after the first network element determines at least one first sensing node to instruct the first sensing task, the first network element may also directly send the first request corresponding to the first sensing service to the first sensing node, or send the first request corresponding to the first sensing service to the first sensing node through the access and mobility management network element, so that the first sensing node can determine how to perform the first sensing task based on the first request.

[0154] In one possible implementation, the first request message may further include first indication information, which is used to indicate the acquisition of the positioning reference information of the first sensing node. The first network element may request the first sensing node for performing the first sensing task and the positioning reference information of the first sensing node based on the first request message, and perform subsequent calculations based on the positioning reference information of the first sensing node to determine the following positioning information.

[0155] In another implementation, after the first network element sends a first request message to the access and mobility management network element, the first network element can directly send a first instruction message to the access and mobility management network element to obtain the positioning reference information of the first sensing node. The first network element can send the first instruction message only after determining the first sensing node performing the first sensing task. This ensures that the target object of the first instruction message is clearly defined, avoiding the receipt of invalid messages.

[0156] In another possible implementation, the access and mobility management network element (AMI) obtains the location reference information of the sensing node during the registration request process of the sensing node. The AMI can then feed back the location reference information of the first sensing node to the first network element. For example, after receiving the first request message from the first network element, the AMI determines the first sensing node and, when feeding back the first information, includes the location reference information of the first sensing node in the first information. For example, after receiving the first request message from the first network element, the AMI determines the second sensing node and, after feeding back the second information to the first network element, the first network element determines the first sensing node. Subsequently, the first network element sends first instruction information to the AMI, and the AMI feeds back the location reference information of the first sensing node to the first network element. This is merely an illustrative example and not a specific limitation.

[0157] The aforementioned positioning reference information is used to indicate the positioning methods supported by the first sensing node, or the preferred positioning methods of the first sensing node, or the permitted positioning methods of the first sensing node. Specifically, the positioning reference information includes at least one positioning method corresponding to the first sensing node. The positioning method may include terminal positioning (or terminal-executed positioning) and / or network positioning (or network-executed positioning). For example, terminal positioning includes Global Positioning System (GPS) positioning, BeiDou positioning, Bluetooth positioning, or, in a dual-base sensing scenario, positioning performed by the receiving first sensing node for the transmitting first sensing node (e.g., the transmitting first sensing node is UE1, the receiving first sensing node is UE2, UE1 and UE2 transmit positioning information, UE2 calculates the time delay information between UE1 sending positioning information and UE2 receiving positioning information, determines the distance between UE1 and UE2, and since UE2's own position is known, the position information of UE1 can be calculated based on the time delay information), etc. Network positioning includes positioning based on network elements, such as OTDOA (observed time difference of arrival), which can be understood with reference to standard 3GPP TS23.273, and will not be elaborated here. For example, positioning reference information also includes the positioning accuracy corresponding to the positioning method. Positioning accuracy indicates the error between the actual location and the location determined by different positioning methods. The smaller the error, the higher the positioning accuracy, and the more accurate the positioning method; the larger the error, the lower the positioning accuracy, and the less accurate the positioning method.

[0158] Before or after executing step 602, after the first network element acquires the first sensing service, it determines that the sensing method for performing the first sensing task is single-base sensing and / or dual-base sensing. If, before executing step 602, the first network element acquires the first sensing service, it can specify the sensing method as dual-base sensing based on relevant information about the sensing range (e.g., terminal transmits sensing signals, base station receives sensing signals, or terminal 1 transmits sensing signals, terminal 2 receives sensing signals, or base station 1 transmits sensing signals, base station 2 receives sensing signals). Alternatively, the first network element specifies the sensing method as single-base sensing. Based on the specified sensing method, the first network element determines the first sensing node that can satisfy that sensing method. If, after executing step 602, the first network element acquires the first sensing node, it can specify the sensing method as dual-base sensing or single-base sensing based on relevant information about the first sensing node. Based on the specified first sensing node, the first network element determines the sensing methods supported by that first sensing node.

[0159] After the first network element obtains the first sensing node to perform the first sensing task, it needs to clarify the positioning information and sensing information related to the first sensing task in order to better perform sensing and obtain more reliable sensing results. Step 603 is then executed.

[0160] Step 603: The first network element determines the positioning information and sensing information.

[0161] The positioning information indicates the first time-frequency information for executing the first positioning task, and the perception information indicates the second time-frequency information for executing the first perception task. The first perception task is associated with the first positioning task. The perception target of the first perception task is not the positioning target in the first positioning task; rather, the positioning target of the first positioning task is one or more perception nodes executing the first perception task. For example, if the first perception task is to describe the contour of a perception target, assuming UE1 and UE2 perform dual-base perception to describe the contour of a moving car (i.e., execute the first perception task), the first positioning task could be to locate the position of UE1 within the time period during which the first perception task is executed. This is merely an example and not a specific limitation.

[0162] For example, the positioning information includes the identifier of the first sensing task and the first time-frequency information, or the identifier of the first positioning task and the first time-frequency information, and the sensing information includes the identifier of the first sensing task and the second time-frequency information, or the identifier of the first positioning task and the second time-frequency information, wherein the identifier of the first sensing task and the identifier of the first positioning task are associated.

[0163] The first time-frequency information includes first time-domain information and first frequency-domain (also referred to as frequency) information; the second time-frequency information includes second time-domain information and second frequency-domain information; the association between the first sensing task and the first positioning task includes: association between the first time-domain information and the second time-domain information, and / or association between the first frequency-domain information and the second frequency-domain information. The first time-domain information can be the time range information (or length information) and / or start and end time information of the first positioning task; the second time-domain information can be the time range information (or length information) and / or start and end time information of the first sensing task. For example, the execution time range information of the first positioning task and the first sensing task is 10 minutes, and the first positioning task and the first sensing task are executed from 10:00:00 to 10:10:00. Further, the first frequency-domain information can include the time interval information of 10 seconds for each positioning sampling. The second frequency-domain information can include the time interval information of 10 seconds for each sensing sampling.

[0164] In one possible implementation, the association between the first sensing task and the first positioning task refers to the association between first time-domain information and second time-domain information. For example, the first positioning task and the first sensing task are timed tasks. The first positioning task is executed once every 10 seconds (i.e., first frequency domain information), and the first sensing task is executed once every 15 seconds (i.e., second frequency domain information). For instance, if the first positioning task and the first sensing task are executed between 10:00:00 and 10:01:00, when the first time-domain information is associated with the second time-domain information, the first time-domain information can be 10:00:20–10:00:30 or 10:00:50–10:01:00, and the second time-domain information can be 10:00:15–10:00:30 or 10:00:45–10:01:00.

[0165] In another possible implementation, the association between the first sensing task and the first positioning task refers to the association between the first frequency domain information and the second frequency domain information. For example, when the first positioning task and the first sensing task are executed from 10:00:00 to 10:01:00, and the first frequency domain information is associated with the second frequency domain information, the first positioning task can be executed once every 10 seconds (i.e., the first frequency domain information), and the first sensing task can be executed once every 10 seconds (i.e., the second frequency domain information).

[0166] In another possible implementation, the association between the first sensing task and the first positioning task refers to the association between first time-domain information and second time-domain information, and the association between first frequency-domain information and second frequency-domain information. For example, the first time-domain information and the second time-domain information are the same, and the first frequency-domain information and the second frequency-domain information are also the same. The first time-domain information is 10:00:00-10:01:00, the second time-domain information is 10:00:00-10:01:00, the first frequency-domain information indicates that the first positioning task is executed once every 10 seconds, and the second frequency-domain information indicates that the first sensing task is executed once every 10 seconds.

[0167] The aforementioned first network element can obtain the positioning reference information corresponding to the first sensing node, and determine the positioning information and sensing information based on the positioning reference information and the first requirement. For example, the first network element can receive the positioning reference information corresponding to the first sensing node through an access and mobility management network element, or the first network element can directly receive the positioning reference information corresponding to the first sensing node. For example, the first network element can also determine the positioning reference information corresponding to the first sensing node itself based on the first requirement of the first sensing task. This is not specifically limited here. For example, if the positioning reference information corresponding to the first sensing node does not support terminal positioning, the first network element can determine to use network positioning to obtain the location information of the first sensing node. Furthermore, when the positioning reference information includes positioning accuracy, the first network element can also obtain the positioning accuracy corresponding to terminal positioning and network positioning respectively. In this case, the first network element can determine which positioning method to use based on the sensing accuracy information in the first requirement of the first sensing task. For example, if the sensing accuracy requirement is high and the network-side positioning accuracy is better than the terminal positioning accuracy, the first network element will determine to use network positioning, thereby improving the accuracy of the sensing results.

[0168] After obtaining the positioning reference information, the first network element can determine the first positioning method corresponding to the first positioning task based on the positioning reference information. The first positioning method is one of at least one positioning method. When the first positioning method is terminal positioning, step 604A is executed; when the first positioning method is network positioning, steps 604B to 604C are executed.

[0169] Step 604A: The first network element sends positioning information and sensing information to the first sensing node.

[0170] For example, the first network element directly sends location information and sensing information to the first sensing node. Alternatively, the first network element sends location information and sensing information to the first sensing node through the access and mobility management network element.

[0171] Step 604B: The first network element sends sensing information to the first sensing node.

[0172] For example, the first network element directly sends sensing information to the first sensing node. Alternatively, the first network element sends sensing information to the first sensing node through the access and mobility management network element.

[0173] Step 604C: The first network element sends positioning information to the positioning network element.

[0174] In one possible implementation, the first positioning method is terminal positioning, and the first network element sends a first request to the first sensing node. Then, the above steps 603 and 604A can be replaced by the first sensing node determining sensing information and positioning information according to the first request.

[0175] The first network element can select a positioning method that adapts to the requirements of the first sensing service based on the first requirement. Then, when executing the first sensing task corresponding to the first sensing service, it can determine the sensing result that meets the first requirement based on this positioning method. For example, if the first sensing service requires high sensing accuracy, but terminal positioning supports lower accuracy while network positioning supports higher accuracy, then network positioning can be selected to ensure that the sensing accuracy meets the requirements. If the first sensing service requires lower sensing accuracy, then terminal positioning or network positioning with lower accuracy can be selected, thus saving unnecessary resource overhead associated with high-precision positioning.

[0176] Step 605: The first sensing node performs the first sensing task.

[0177] For example, the first sensing node sends a sensing signal to the sensing target based on sensing information, or receives a sensing signal reflected by the sensing target. This first sensing node can be a sensing node in monostatic sensing or a sensing node in bistatic sensing; this is merely an example and not a specific limitation.

[0178] As an example, if the first positioning method is terminal positioning, the first sensing node also performs the first positioning task based on the positioning information.

[0179] As another example, if the first positioning method is network positioning, the positioning network element performs the first positioning task based on the positioning information.

[0180] Step 606: The first network element acquires the sensing results.

[0181] Among them, the perception results are associated with the positioning information and perception information.

[0182] In one possible implementation, the first sensing node performs a first sensing task and acquires sensing data, and performs a first positioning task and acquires positioning results (or receives positioning results from the positioning network element). The first sensing node determines the sensing result based on the sensing data and the positioning result, and sends the sensing result to the first network element.

[0183] In another possible implementation, the first sensing node performs a first sensing task to acquire sensing data, and performs a first positioning task to acquire positioning results (or receives positioning results from the positioning network element). The first sensing node sends the sensing data and positioning results to the first network element, and the first network element determines the sensing result based on the sensing data and positioning results.

[0184] For example, the aforementioned sensing data and positioning results both include the identifier of the first sensing task and / or the identifier of the first positioning task, so that the first sensing node or the first network element can associate the sensing data and the positioning results with the first sensing task.

[0185] Optionally, proceed to step 607.

[0186] Step 607: The first network element sends the sensing result to the sensing requester.

[0187] When the first network element is SF-C in Figure 2B, steps 606 and 607 above are replaced by the second network element acquiring the sensing result. The second network element sends the sensing result to the sensing requester. The second network element can be understood as SF-U in Figure 2B. Based on this, the actions performed by the user plane SF and the control plane SF are separated. Since the service models of the control plane and the user plane differ significantly, separating the user plane and the control plane facilitates distributed deployment, optimizes routing, shortens the user plane forwarding path, and improves user experience. Furthermore, the control plane can be centrally deployed and maintained.

[0188] In this application, when performing the first sensing task, the first network element sends out positioning information for performing the first positioning task and sensing information for performing the first sensing task. Since the first positioning task and the first sensing task are related, even if the sensing node performing the first sensing task is in a moving state, the position information of the sensing node can be obtained based on the first positioning task, instead of continuously using the initial position of the sensing node performing the first sensing task to calculate the sensing result. Compared with existing technologies, the obtained sensing results are more accurate.

[0189] Figure 7 below illustrates the data interaction between UE1 (i.e., the first sensing node, the sensing node that transmits sensing signals), RAN equipment (i.e., the sensing node that receives sensing signals), AMF (i.e., the Access and Mobility Management Network Element), and SF (i.e., the first network element). For example, it also includes the LMF (i.e., the Location Network Element) performing the following:

[0190] Step 701: The UE performs the registration process.

[0191] After the registration process is completed, the AMF maintains the UE list information, UE location information, and UE perception capability information. Here, UE is used in a general sense and includes UE1.

[0192] Step 702: SF obtains a request to execute the first sensing service.

[0193] For example, SF can be obtained based on the sensing request message sent by the sensing requester (i.e., the second request message mentioned above), wherein the second request message indicates the sensing range of the first sensing service, which can be understood with reference to the second request message in step 601 above and will not be repeated here. In one possible implementation, the first sensing service is a periodically executed task, so the sensing requester only sends the sensing request message when the first sensing service is executed for the first time or when the first sensing service is adjusted. In another possible implementation, a sensing network element requests the first network element to execute the first sensing service due to equipment failure or performance upgrade requirements. For example, the second request message also includes a first requirement corresponding to the first sensing service. This is only an example and is not specifically limited.

[0194] Furthermore, after acquiring the first sensing service, the SF determines to execute the first sensing task. Based on the first sensing service, the SF determines that the sensing method for the first sensing task is bi-base sensing, with the RAN device acting as the sensing node receiving sensing signals and the UE acting as the sensing node transmitting sensing signals.

[0195] Step 703: SF sends the first request message to AMF.

[0196] The first request message is used to request a first sensing node to perform a first sensing task. The first request message includes an identifier for the first sensing task. The first request message may also include first indication information, which instructs the acquisition of positioning reference information for the first sensing node. This can be understood by referring to step 602 above, and will not be repeated here.

[0197] Step 704: The UE sends perception capability information to the AMF.

[0198] The sensing capability information includes the sensing methods supported by the UE, sensing accuracy, etc. For example, the UE also sends its positioning reference information to the AMF. The positioning reference information is used to indicate the positioning methods supported by the first sensing node, or the preferred positioning methods of the first sensing node, or the permitted positioning methods of the first sensing node. Specifically, the positioning reference information includes at least one positioning method corresponding to the first sensing node. The positioning method may include terminal positioning (or terminal-executed positioning) and / or network positioning (or network-executed positioning). This can be understood with reference to the relevant description in step 602 above, and will not be repeated here.

[0199] Step 705: AMF sends either the first message or the second message to SF.

[0200] The first information indicates a list of UEs performing the first sensing task (such as the SUPI corresponding to each UE). The second information indicates the location information of multiple UEs, and the SF can then determine the UE performing the first sensing task based on the second information. This can be understood with reference to the description in step 602 above, and will not be repeated here. For example, the first or second information may also include the UE's positioning reference information.

[0201] Step 706, SF determines that the UE performing the first perception task is UE1.

[0202] If the first information includes UE1, it can be determined that UE1 performs the first sensing task. If the location of UE1 in the second information is within the range of the sensing task, it can be determined that UE1 can perform the first sensing task. After obtaining the positioning reference information, SF can determine the first positioning method corresponding to the first positioning task (i.e., performing positioning on UE1) based on the positioning reference information. The first positioning method is one of at least one positioning method.

[0203] Step 707: SF determines the positioning information and sensing information based on the first positioning method corresponding to the first positioning task and the first requirement of the first sensing service.

[0204] The location information indicates first time-frequency information for executing the first location task, and the perception information indicates second time-frequency information for executing the first perception task. The first perception task is associated with the first location task. For example, the location information includes an identifier of the first perception task and the first time-frequency information, and the perception information includes an identifier of the first perception task and the second time-frequency information.

[0205] Specifically, the first time-frequency information includes first time-domain information and first frequency-domain (also referred to as frequency) information; the second time-frequency information includes second time-domain information and second frequency-domain information; the association between the first sensing task and the first positioning task includes: the association between the first time-domain information and the second time-domain information, and / or, the association between the first frequency-domain information and the second frequency-domain information. This can be understood with reference to step 603, and will not be elaborated upon here.

[0206] If the first positioning method is assumed to be terminal positioning, step 708A is executed; if the first positioning method is assumed to be network positioning, steps 708B to 708D are executed.

[0207] Step 708A: SF sends location information and sensing information to UE1 and RAN equipment.

[0208] For example, the SF can directly send location and sensing information to UE1 and RAN devices. The SF can also send location and sensing information to UE1 and RAN devices through the AMF.

[0209] Step 708B: SF sends sensing information to UE1.

[0210] For example, the SF can directly send sensing information to UE1. The SF can also send sensing information to UE1 through the AMF.

[0211] Step 708C: SF sends sensing information and positioning information to the RAN equipment.

[0212] For example, the SF can directly send location and sensing information to the RAN equipment. The SF can also send location and sensing information to the RAN equipment through the AMF.

[0213] Step 708D: SF sends location information to LMF.

[0214] Step 709: UE1 sends a sensing signal to the sensing target based on the sensing information.

[0215] If the first positioning method is terminal positioning, UE1 will also perform positioning based on the positioning information to obtain the positioning result.

[0216] Step 710: The RAN device receives the sensing signal reflected from the sensing target.

[0217] When the first positioning method is terminal positioning, step 711 is executed. When the first positioning method is network positioning, before executing step 711, the LMF performs positioning based on the positioning information, obtains the positioning result, and sends the positioning result to the RAN device.

[0218] Step 711: The RAN device acquires sensing data and positioning results, and calculates sensing results based on the sensing data and positioning results.

[0219] When the first positioning method is terminal positioning, the positioning result is sent from UE1 to the RAN device.

[0220] Step 712: The RAN device sends the sensing results to the SF.

[0221] For example, the perception result includes the identifier of the first perception task and / or the identifier of the first localization task.

[0222] Because the first localization task is related to the first sensing task, even if the sensing node performing the first sensing task is in a moving state, its position information can be obtained based on the first localization task, instead of continuously using the initial position of the sensing node when performing the first sensing task to calculate the sensing result. Compared with existing technologies, the obtained sensing results are more accurate.

[0223] Figure 8 below illustrates the data interaction between UE1 (the first sensing node, the sensing node that transmits sensing signals), RAN equipment (the sensing node that receives sensing signals), AMF (Access and Mobility Management Network Element), SF-C (the first network element), and SF-U (the second network element). Optional additional element is LMF (the location network element). SF-C can be pre-configured with RAN equipment location information, or the RAN equipment can send its location information to SF-C after power-on, or the RAN equipment can send its location information to NRM, allowing SF-C to obtain the RAN equipment's location information from NRM. SF-U can obtain the RAN equipment's location information through SF-C, or directly from the RAN equipment or NRM; this is not limited here. The execution is as follows:

[0224] Step 801: The UE performs the registration process.

[0225] After the registration process is completed, the AMF can maintain a list of UEs under its jurisdiction, as well as the location information and sensing capability information of the UEs. Here, UE is used in a general sense, including UE1.

[0226] Step 802: SF-C obtains a request to execute the first sensing service.

[0227] SF-C can be obtained based on the sensing request message sent by the sensing requester (i.e., the second request message mentioned above). The second request message indicates the sensing range of the first sensing service, which can be understood with reference to the second request message in step 601 above and will not be repeated here. In one possible implementation, the first sensing service is a periodically executed task; therefore, the sensing requester only sends the sensing request message when the first sensing service is executed for the first time or when the first sensing service is adjusted. In another possible implementation, a sensing network element requests the first network element to execute the first sensing service due to equipment failure or performance upgrade requirements. The second request message also includes a first requirement corresponding to the first sensing service. This is only an illustrative example and is not specifically limited.

[0228] Furthermore, after acquiring the first sensing service, SF-C determines to execute the first sensing task. Based on the first sensing service, SF-C determines that the sensing method for the first sensing task is bi-base sensing, with the RAN device acting as the sensing node receiving sensing signals and the UE acting as the sensing node transmitting sensing signals.

[0229] Step 803: SF-C sends the first request message to AMF.

[0230] The first request message is used to request a first sensing node to perform a first sensing task. The first request message includes an identifier for the first sensing task. The first request message may also include first indication information, which instructs the acquisition of positioning reference information for the first sensing node. This can be understood by referring to step 602 above, and will not be repeated here.

[0231] Step 804: The UE sends perception capability information to the AMF.

[0232] The sensing capability information includes the sensing methods supported by the UE, sensing accuracy, etc. For example, the UE also sends its positioning reference information to the AMF. The positioning reference information is used to indicate the positioning methods supported by the first sensing node, or the preferred positioning methods of the first sensing node, or the permitted positioning methods of the first sensing node. Specifically, the positioning reference information includes at least one positioning method corresponding to the first sensing node. The positioning method may include terminal positioning (or terminal-executed positioning) and / or network positioning (or network-executed positioning). This can be understood with reference to the relevant description in step 602 above, and will not be repeated here.

[0233] Step 805: AMF sends either the first message or the second message to SF-C.

[0234] The first information indicates a list of UEs performing the first sensing task (such as the SUPI corresponding to each UE). The second information indicates the location information of multiple UEs, after which the SF-C can determine the UEs performing the first sensing task based on the second information. Specifically, please refer to the description in step 602 above for understanding, which will not be repeated here. For example, the first or second information may also include the UE's positioning reference information.

[0235] Step 806, SF-C determines that the UE performing the first sensing task is UE1.

[0236] If the first information includes UE1, it can be determined that UE1 performs the first sensing task. If the location of UE1 in the second information is within the range of the sensing task, it can be determined that UE1 can perform the first sensing task. After obtaining the positioning reference information, SF can determine the first positioning method corresponding to the first positioning task (i.e., performing positioning on UE1) based on the positioning reference information. The first positioning method is one of at least one positioning method.

[0237] Step 807: SF-C determines the positioning information and sensing information based on the first positioning method corresponding to the first positioning task and the first requirement of the first sensing service.

[0238] The location information indicates first time-frequency information for executing the first location task, and the perception information indicates second time-frequency information for executing the first perception task. The first perception task is associated with the first location task. For example, the location information includes an identifier of the first perception task and the first time-frequency information, and the perception information includes an identifier of the first perception task and the second time-frequency information.

[0239] The first time-frequency information includes first time-domain information and first frequency-domain (also referred to as frequency) information; the second time-frequency information includes second time-domain information and second frequency-domain information; the association between the first sensing task and the first positioning task includes: association between the first time-domain information and the second time-domain information, and / or association between the first frequency-domain information and the second frequency-domain information. This can be understood by referring to step 603, and will not be elaborated upon here.

[0240] Step 808: SF-C sends a perception request message to SF-U.

[0241] This perception request message is used to instruct the SF-U to perform a first perception task. The perception request message includes an identifier for the first perception task; optionally, it also includes an identifier for the first perception node performing the perception task (i.e., the identifier of UE1 and the identifier of the RNA device). Optionally, the perception request message also includes the perception method (bi-base perception) for the first perception task.

[0242] If the first positioning method is assumed to be terminal positioning, proceed to step 809A; if the first positioning method is assumed to be network positioning, proceed to steps 809B to 809C.

[0243] Step 809A: SF-C sends location information and sensing information to UE1 and RAN equipment.

[0244] For example, SF-C can directly send location and sensing information to UE1 and RAN devices. SF-C can also send location and sensing information to UE1 and RAN devices via AMF.

[0245] Step 809B: SF-C sends sensing information to UE1 and RAN equipment.

[0246] For example, SF-C can directly send sensing information to UE1. SF-C can also send sensing information to UE1 via AMF.

[0247] Step 809C: SF-C sends location information to LMF.

[0248] Step 810: UE1 sends a sensing signal to the sensing target based on the sensing information.

[0249] If the first positioning method is terminal positioning, UE1 will also perform positioning based on the positioning information.

[0250] Step 811: The RAN device receives the sensing signal reflected from the sensing target to acquire sensing data.

[0251] When the first positioning method is terminal positioning, steps 812A and 812B are executed; when the first positioning method is network positioning, steps 812B and 812C are executed.

[0252] Step 812A: UE1 sends the location result to SF-U.

[0253] Step 812B: The RAN device sends sensing data to the SF-U.

[0254] Step 812C: The LMF performs positioning and sends the positioning result to the SF-U.

[0255] Both the sensing data and the positioning results include the identifier of the first sensing task and / or the identifier of the first positioning task.

[0256] Step 813: SF-U determines the perception result based on the positioning result and the perception data.

[0257] Because the first localization task is related to the first sensing task, even if the sensing node performing the first sensing task is in a moving state, its position information can be obtained based on the first localization task, instead of continuously using the initial position of the sensing node when performing the first sensing task to calculate the sensing result. Compared with existing technologies, the obtained sensing results are more accurate.

[0258] Figure 9 below illustrates the data interaction between UE1 (the first sensing node, the sensing node that transmits sensing signals), UE2 (the first sensing node, the sensing node that receives sensing signals), AMF (i.e., the first sensing element), SF-C (i.e., the first network element), and SF-U (i.e., the second network element). Optional additional element is LMF (i.e., the positioning network element). The execution is as follows:

[0259] Step 901: The UE performs the registration process.

[0260] After the registration process is completed, the AMF can maintain a list of UEs under its jurisdiction, as well as the location information and sensing capability information of the UEs. Here, UE is used in a general sense, including UE1 and UE2.

[0261] Steps 902 to 905 are executed in the same way as steps 802 to 805 above, and will not be repeated here. They can be understood by referring to them.

[0262] Step 906, SF-C determines that the UEs performing the first sensing task are UE1 and UE2.

[0263] If the first information includes UE1 and UE2, it can be determined that UE1 and UE2 are performing the first sensing task. If the locations of UE1 and UE2 in the second information are within the range of the sensing task, it can be determined that UE1 and UE2 can perform the first sensing task. After obtaining the positioning reference information, SF can determine the first positioning method corresponding to the first positioning task (i.e., performing positioning on UE1) based on the positioning reference information. The first positioning method is one of at least one positioning method.

[0264] Step 907: SF-C determines the positioning information and sensing information based on the first positioning method corresponding to the first positioning task and the first requirement of the first sensing service.

[0265] The location information indicates first time-frequency information for executing the first location task, and the perception information indicates second time-frequency information for executing the first perception task. The first perception task is associated with the first location task. For example, the location information includes an identifier of the first perception task and the first time-frequency information, and the perception information includes an identifier of the first perception task and the second time-frequency information.

[0266] Specifically, the first time-frequency information includes first time-domain information and first frequency-domain (also referred to as frequency) information; the second time-frequency information includes second time-domain information and second frequency-domain information; the association between the first sensing task and the first positioning task includes: the association between the first time-domain information and the second time-domain information, and / or, the association between the first frequency-domain information and the second frequency-domain information. This can be understood with reference to step 603, and will not be elaborated upon here.

[0267] Step 908: SF-C sends a perception request message to SF-U.

[0268] This perception request message is used to instruct the SF-U to perform a perception task. The perception request message includes an identifier for the first perception task; optionally, it also includes an identifier for the first perception node performing the perception task (i.e., the identifiers of UE1 and UE2). The perception request message also includes the perception method (dual-base perception) for the first perception task.

[0269] If the first positioning method is assumed to be terminal positioning, proceed to step 909A; if the first positioning method is assumed to be network positioning, proceed to steps 909B to 909C.

[0270] Step 909A: SF-C sends positioning information and sensing information to UE1 and UE2.

[0271] For example, SF-C can directly send location information and perception information to UE1 and UE2. SF-C can also send location information and perception information to UE1 and UE2 via AMF.

[0272] Step 909B: SF-C sends sensing information to UE1 and UE2.

[0273] For example, SF-C can directly send perception information to UE1 and UE2. SF-C can also send perception information to UE1 and UE2 via AMF.

[0274] Step 909C: SF-C sends location information to LMF.

[0275] Step 910: UE1 sends a sensing signal to the sensing target based on the sensing information.

[0276] If the first positioning method is terminal positioning, UE1 will also perform positioning based on the positioning information.

[0277] Step 911: UE2 receives the sensing signal reflected from the sensing target to obtain sensing data.

[0278] When the first positioning method is terminal positioning, steps 912A and 912B are executed; when the first positioning method is network positioning, steps 912B and 912C are executed.

[0279] Step 912A: UE1 sends the location result to SF-U.

[0280] Step 912B: UE2 sends sensing data to SF-U.

[0281] Step 912C: The LMF performs positioning and sends the positioning result to the SF-U.

[0282] Optionally, both the sensing data and the positioning results may include an identifier for the first sensing task.

[0283] Step 913: SF-U determines the sensing result based on the positioning result and sensing data.

[0284] Because the first localization task is related to the first sensing task, even if the sensing node performing the first sensing task is in a moving state, its position information can be obtained based on the first localization task, instead of continuously using the initial position of the sensing node when performing the first sensing task to calculate the sensing result. Compared with existing technologies, the obtained sensing results are more accurate.

[0285] The foregoing primarily describes the solutions provided by the embodiments of this application from the perspective of device interaction. It is understood that, in order to achieve the above functions, each device may include corresponding hardware structures and / or software modules for executing each function. Those skilled in the art should readily recognize that, in conjunction with the units and algorithm steps of the various examples described in the embodiments disclosed herein, the embodiments of this application can be implemented in hardware or a combination of hardware and computer software. Whether a function is executed in hardware or by computer software driving hardware depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of this application.

[0286] The embodiments of this application can divide the device into functional units according to the above method examples. For example, each function can be divided into a separate functional unit, or two or more functions can be integrated into one unit. The integrated unit can be implemented in hardware or as a software functional unit.

[0287] In the case of using integrated units, FIG10 shows a possible exemplary block diagram of the communication device involved in the embodiments of this application. As shown in FIG10, the communication device 1000 may include a processing unit 1001 and a transceiver unit 1002. The processing unit 1001 is used to control and manage the operation of the communication device 1000. The transceiver unit 1002 is used to support communication between the communication device 1000 and other devices. Optionally, the transceiver unit 1002 may include a receiving unit and / or a transmitting unit, respectively used to perform receiving and transmitting operations. Optionally, the communication device 1000 may also include a storage unit for storing the program code and / or data of the communication device 1000. The transceiver unit may be called an input / output unit, a communication unit, etc., and the transceiver unit may be a transceiver; the processing unit may be a processor. When the communication device is a module (e.g., a chip) in a communication device, the transceiver unit may be an input / output interface, an input / output circuit, or an input / output pin, etc., and may also be called an interface, a communication interface, or an interface circuit, etc.; the processing unit may be a processor, a processing circuit, or a logic circuit, etc. For example, the device can be the terminal or network device described above.

[0288] More detailed descriptions of the processing unit 1001 and the transceiver unit 1002 can be obtained directly from the relevant descriptions in the above method embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0289] Figure 11 shows a communication device 1100 provided in this application. The communication device 1100 can be a chip or a chip system. The communication device can be located in the device involved in any of the above method embodiments, such as a terminal or network device, to perform the actions corresponding to that device.

[0290] Optionally, a chip system can consist of chips or include chips and other discrete components.

[0291] The communication device 1100 includes a processor 1110.

[0292] The processor 1110 is configured to execute a computer program stored in the memory 1120 to implement the operation of each device in any of the above method embodiments.

[0293] The communication device 1100 may also include a memory 1120 for storing computer programs.

[0294] Optionally, the memory 1120 and the processor 1110 are coupled. Coupling is an indirect coupling or communication connection between devices, units, or modules, which can be electrical, mechanical, or other forms, for information exchange between devices, units, or modules. Optionally, the memory 1120 and the processor 1110 are integrated together.

[0295] There can be one or more processors 1110 and memory 1120, and there is no limitation.

[0296] Optionally, in practical applications, the communication device 1100 may or may not include a transceiver 1130, as illustrated by the dashed box in the figure. The communication device 1100 can exchange information with other devices through the transceiver 1130. The transceiver 1130 can be a circuit, a bus, a transceiver, or any other device that can be used for information exchange.

[0297] In one possible implementation, the communication device 1100 can be a terminal or network device as described in the above methods.

[0298] This application embodiment does not limit the specific connection medium between the transceiver 1130, processor 1110, and memory 1120. In Figure 11, the memory 1120, processor 1110, and transceiver 1130 are connected via a bus, indicated by a thick line. The connection methods between other components are merely illustrative and not intended to be limiting. The bus can be an address bus, data bus, control bus, etc. For ease of illustration, only one thick line is used in Figure 11, but this does not indicate that there is only one bus or one type of bus. In this application embodiment, the processor can be a general-purpose processor, digital signal processor, application-specific integrated circuit, field-programmable gate array, or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic device, or discrete hardware component, and can implement or execute the methods, steps, and logic block diagrams disclosed in this application embodiment. The general-purpose processor can be a microprocessor or any conventional processor. The steps of the methods disclosed in this application embodiment can be directly reflected as being executed by a hardware processor, or executed by a combination of hardware and software modules in the processor.

[0299] In the embodiments of this application, the memory can be non-volatile memory, such as a hard disk drive (HDD) or a solid-state drive (SSD), or it can be volatile memory, such as random-access memory (RAM). The memory can also be any other medium capable of carrying or storing desired program code in the form of instructions or data structures, and accessible by a computer, but is not limited thereto. The memory in the embodiments of this application can also be a circuit or any other device capable of implementing storage functions, used to store computer programs, program instructions, and / or data.

[0300] Based on the above embodiments, referring to Figure 12, this application embodiment also provides another communication device 1200, including: an interface circuit 1210 and a logic circuit 1220; the interface circuit 1210 can be understood as an input / output interface, which can be used to execute the transmission and reception steps of each device in any of the above method embodiments, and the logic circuit 1220 can be used to run code or instructions to execute the methods executed by each device in any of the above embodiments, which will not be described in detail again.

[0301] Based on the above embodiments, this application also provides a computer-readable storage medium storing instructions that, when executed, cause the methods executed by the devices in any of the above method embodiments to be implemented. The computer-readable storage medium may include various media capable of storing program code, such as a USB flash drive, portable hard drive, read-only memory, random access memory, magnetic disk, or optical disk.

[0302] Based on the above embodiments, this application provides a communication system, which includes the terminal and network device mentioned in any of the above method embodiments, and can be used to execute the methods executed by each device in any of the above method embodiments.

[0303] Those skilled in the art will understand that embodiments of this application can be provided as methods, systems, or computer program products. Therefore, this application can take the form of a completely hardware embodiment, a completely software embodiment, or an embodiment combining software and hardware aspects. Furthermore, this application can take the form of a computer program product embodied on one or more computer-usable storage media (including but not limited to disk storage, CD-ROM, optical storage, etc.) containing computer-usable program code.

[0304] This application is described with reference to flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams of methods, apparatus (systems), and computer program products according to this application. It should be understood that each block of the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams, and combinations of blocks in the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams, can be implemented by computer program instructions. These computer program instructions can be provided to a processor of a general-purpose computer, special-purpose computer, embedded processor, or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such that the instructions, which execute via the processor of the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus, create means for implementing the functions specified in one or more flowchart illustrations and / or one or more block diagrams.

[0305] These computer program instructions may also be stored in a computer-readable storage medium that can direct a computer or other programmable data processing apparatus to function in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the computer-readable storage medium produce an article of manufacture including instruction means that implement the functions specified in one or more flowcharts and / or one or more block diagrams.

[0306] These computer program instructions may also be loaded onto a computer or other programmable data processing apparatus to cause a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer or other programmable apparatus to produce a computer-implemented process, such that the instructions, which execute on the computer or other programmable apparatus, provide steps for implementing the functions specified in one or more flowcharts and / or one or more block diagrams.

Claims

1. A communication method, characterized in that, Applied to the first network element, including: Determine location information and sensing information; The positioning information and the sensing information are sent, wherein the positioning information indicates first time-frequency information for executing a first positioning task, and the sensing information indicates second time-frequency information for executing a first sensing task, and the first sensing task is associated with the first positioning task.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first time-frequency information includes first time-domain information and first frequency-domain information; the second time-frequency information includes second time-domain information and second frequency-domain information; the association between the first sensing task and the first positioning task includes: The first time-domain information is associated with the second time-domain information, and / or the first frequency-domain information is associated with the second frequency-domain information.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The method further includes: Send a first request message, which is used to request a first sensing node to perform the first sensing task, and the first request message includes an identifier of the first sensing task.

4. The method according to claim 3, characterized in that, The method further includes: Receive first information, the first information indicating at least one of the first sensing nodes to perform the first sensing task.

5. The method according to claim 3, characterized in that, The method further includes: Receive second information, the second information indicating the location information of at least one second sensing node; The first sensing node is determined based on the second information, and the first sensing node belongs to the second sensing node.

6. The method according to any one of claims 3-5, characterized in that, At least one of the first sensing nodes is a terminal device or has mobility.

7. The method according to claim 3, characterized in that, The first request message further includes: first indication information, which is used to indicate the acquisition of the positioning reference information of the first sensing node.

8. The method according to any one of claims 3-6, characterized in that, The method further includes: Send a first indication message, which is used to indicate the acquisition of the positioning reference information of the first sensing node.

9. The method according to any one of claims 1-8, characterized in that, The method further includes: A second request message is received, which is used to request the execution of a first sensing service, which is associated with the first sensing task.

10. The method according to claim 9, characterized in that, The second request message includes a first requirement corresponding to the first sensing service, and the method further includes: Obtain the positioning reference information of the first sensing node, the positioning reference information including at least one positioning method corresponding to the first sensing node, the first sensing node being the sensing node that performs the first sensing task; The determination of location information and perception information includes: Based on the first requirement and the positioning reference information, the positioning information and the sensing information are determined.

11. The method according to claim 10, characterized in that, The method further includes: Send the first requirement corresponding to the first sensing service to the first sensing node.

12. The method according to claim 10 or 11, characterized in that, The step of obtaining the positioning reference information of the first sensing node includes: Receive the positioning reference information corresponding to the first sensing node.

13. The method according to any one of claims 10-12, characterized in that, The positioning method includes one or more of the following: Terminal positioning or network positioning.

14. The method according to any one of claims 10-13, characterized in that, The method further includes: The first positioning method corresponding to the first positioning task is determined based on the positioning reference information, wherein the first positioning method is one of the at least one positioning methods.

15. The method according to claim 14, characterized in that, The first positioning method is terminal positioning, and the sending of positioning information and sensing information includes: The positioning information and the sensing information are sent to the first sensing node.

16. The method according to claim 14, characterized in that, The first positioning method is network positioning, and the sending of positioning information and sensing information includes: Send the sensing information to the first sensing node; The positioning information is sent to the positioning network element.

17. The method according to any one of claims 8-16, characterized in that, The positioning reference information also includes the positioning accuracy corresponding to the positioning method.

18. The method according to any one of claims 3-8 and 10-17, characterized in that, The method further includes: Obtain the perception results, which are associated with the positioning information and the perception information.

19. The method according to claim 18, characterized in that, The obtained perception results include: Receive the perception result corresponding to the first perception node.

20. The method according to any one of claims 3-8 and 10-17, characterized in that, The obtained perception results include: Receive sensing data corresponding to the first sensing node; Receive the positioning result of the first positioning task; The perception result is determined based on the perception data and the positioning result.

21. A communication method, characterized in that, Applied to the second network element, including: Receive sensing data from a first sensing task and positioning results from a first positioning task, wherein the first positioning task is associated with the first sensing task, the sensing data is associated with sensing information, the positioning results are associated with positioning information, the positioning information indicates first time-frequency information for executing the first positioning task, and the sensing information indicates second time-frequency information for executing the first sensing task; The perception result is determined based on the perception data and the positioning result.

22. The method according to claim 21, characterized in that, The first time-frequency information includes first time-domain information and first frequency-domain information; the second time-frequency information includes second time-domain information and second frequency-domain information; the association between the first sensing task and the first positioning task includes: The first time-domain information is associated with the second time-domain information, and / or the first frequency-domain information is associated with the second frequency-domain information.

23. A communication method, characterized in that, Applied to the first sensing node, including: Acquire sensing information and positioning information, wherein the positioning information indicates first time-frequency information for executing a first positioning task, and the sensing information indicates second time-frequency information for executing a first sensing task, wherein the first sensing task is associated with a first positioning task; The first sensing task is performed based on the sensing information.

24. The method according to claim 23, characterized in that, The first time-frequency information includes first time-domain information and first frequency-domain information; the second time-frequency information includes second time-domain information and second frequency-domain information; the association between the first sensing task and the first positioning task includes: The first time-domain information is associated with the second time-domain information, and / or the first frequency-domain information is associated with the second frequency-domain information.

25. The method according to claim 23 or 24, characterized in that, The acquisition of sensing information and positioning information includes: Receive the sensing information and the positioning information from the first network element.

26. The method according to claim 23 or 24, characterized in that, The acquisition of sensing information and positioning information includes: Receive a first request corresponding to the first sensing service, wherein the first sensing service is associated with the first sensing task; Based on the first requirement, the sensing information and the positioning information are determined.

27. The method according to any one of claims 23-26, characterized in that, The method further includes: The first positioning task is executed based on the positioning information.

28. A communication device, characterized in that, include: A first network element for performing the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 20, or a second network element for performing the method as described in any one of claims 21 to 22, or a first sensing node for performing the method as described in any one of claims 23 to 27, or the first network element and the second network element.

29. A communication device, characterized in that, It includes at least one processor; and a communication interface communicatively connected to said at least one processor; said at least one processor causes the method of any one of claims 1 to 27 to be executed by executing instructions stored in memory.

30. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The computer contains a computer program or instructions that, when executed on a computer, cause the computer to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 27.

31. A computer program product, characterized in that, When the computer reads and executes the computer program product, the method described in any one of claims 1 to 27 is performed.

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