Communication method and related apparatus

Abstract

The present application relates to the field of communications. Provided are a communication method and a related apparatus. In the method, a communication node (e.g., a UE or a UE Reader) may send a plurality of types of event reports to an access network device (e.g., a gNB), so as to assist the access network device in configuring or re-configuring an AIoT resource for an AIoT service, thereby improving the user experience and the efficiency of the AIoT service.

Description

A communication method and related apparatus

[0001] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202411914271.8, filed on December 20, 2024, entitled “A Communication Method and Related Device”, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] This application relates to the field of communications, and more particularly to a communication method and related apparatus. Background Technology

[0003] With the development of communication technology, Ambient Internet of Things (AIoT) devices have been introduced to improve the sustainability and performance of communications. AIoT devices are a new type of IoT device that harvests energy from radio waves, light, motion, heat, or any other available environmental energy source and uses this energy to power its devices. Because AIoT devices do not require an external power supply or battery replacements, their maintenance costs are extremely low. They can be widely used in smart warehousing, smart logistics, smart agriculture, industrial wireless sensor networks, smart transportation, smart healthcare, and other fields, and are expected to become a fundamental enabling technology for the Internet of Things.

[0004] AIoT devices typically need to register with the network in order to communicate and be managed. After registration, AIoT devices can execute AIoT services based on service requests issued by third-party application function (AF) network elements. How to configure / manage the communication resources of AIoT services to reduce latency is a problem that needs to be considered. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The communication method and related apparatus provided in this application embodiment can configure resources for AIoT services, reduce task latency, and improve user experience.

[0006] Firstly, a communication method is provided. This method can be executed by a communication node, or by a component (such as a circuit, chip, or chip system) configured in the communication node, or by a logic module or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the communication node. This application does not limit this approach. The following description uses a communication node as an example.

[0007] The method includes: sending first information to an access network device, the first information including at least one of first status information of the communication node, status information of an environmental Internet of Things (AIoT) device, and first execution information of an AIoT service, the first information being used to configure a first resource, the first resource being used for the communication node to communicate with the AIoT device; and receiving second information from the access network device, wherein the second information indicates the first resource.

[0008] In one possible implementation, the first information is used to configure the first resource, or it can be understood as the first information being used to determine whether to configure the first resource. For example, whether to configure the first resource is determined based on the content of the first information.

[0009] For example, the communication node includes a device for communicating with AIoT devices, which may be called a reader / writer. In some examples, the communication node may be a terminal or a device integrated into a terminal and located in the same location as the terminal. In this implementation, the communication node communicates with AIoT devices based on resources configured in the access network device (such as AIoT resources) to perform AIoT services. For example, when a communication node executes an AIoT service, such as after receiving an AIoT service request, or during the execution of an AIoT service in response to an AIoT service request, or when receiving an AIoT service response from an AIoT device, the communication node, as the device closest to the AIoT device, can obtain information related to the communication node's state, information related to the processing status of the AIoT service (i.e., the first execution information of the AIoT service), and information related to the AIoT device (i.e., the status information of the AIoT device), which cannot be directly obtained by the network side. It can then send one or more of these types of information to the access network device, enabling the access network device to determine whether to configure the first resource based on this information. This avoids resource waste caused by blindly deciding to configure resources without a basis for judgment, or avoids problems such as AIoT service failure / high AIoT service latency caused by deciding not to configure resources. Furthermore, in the case of resource allocation decisions, access network devices can also reasonably and accurately (re)configure AIoT resources based on the above information combined with at least one of the following: the status of communication nodes, the execution status of AIoT services, and the status of AIoT devices. In this way, communication nodes can execute AIoT services based on the (re)configured AIoT resources, avoid AIoT service failures, improve user experience, reduce service latency, and enhance user experience.

[0010] In conjunction with the first aspect, in one possible implementation, the first state information of the communication node includes one or more of the following:

[0011] information for instructing the communication node to perform the AIoT service and whether the communication node performs cell switching;

[0012] information for instructing the communication node to perform the AIoT service and whether radio link failure occurs;

[0013] information for instructing the communication node to continue, suspend or terminate the AIoT service when triggering cell switching.

[0014] Exemplarily, the first state information of the communication node can be used to reflect a state of the communication node when performing the AIoT service, thereby assisting the access network device to decide whether to (re)configure the AIoT resource for the communication node, and improving the accuracy and precision of (re)configuring the AIoT resource. For example, if the network state is poor (such as radio link failure) when the communication node performs the AIoT service, a communication node can be reselected to perform the AIoT service, and the first resource is configured for the reselected communication node, so as to avoid resource waste caused by configuring the resource for the original communication node and the original communication node being unable to perform the AIoT service.

[0015] With reference to the first aspect, in a possible implementation manner, the state information of the AIoT device includes one or more of the following:

[0016] information for indicating signal quality of the AIoT device;

[0017] information for indicating power state of the AIoT device.

[0018] Exemplarily, the state information of the AIoT device can be used to reflect whether the AIoT device can continue to perform the AIoT service, thereby assisting the access network device to decide whether to (re)configure the AIoT resource for the communication node, and improving the accuracy and precision of (re)configuring the AIoT resource. For example, if the signal quality of the AIoT device is poor, the AIoT device can no longer continue to perform the AIoT service, and if the resource corresponding to the AIoT device is reconfigured, resource waste can be caused. Therefore, the AIoT resource configured can be reduced, and resource waste can be avoided.

[0019] With reference to the first aspect, in a possible implementation manner, the first execution information of the AIoT service includes one or more of the following:

[0020] information for indicating whether the AIoT device is performing the AIoT service;

[0021] information for indicating whether the AIoT device has completed the AIoT service;

[0022] Information used to indicate the time required for unexecuted AIoT services within the AIoT service;

[0023] Information used to indicate the amount of AIoT service data to be transmitted that is cached in the communication node;

[0024] Information used to indicate the amount of AIoT service data to be received;

[0025] This information is used to indicate the number of devices awaiting a response in the execution of the AIoT service.

[0026] For example, the first execution information of AIoT services can be used to reflect the execution status of AIoT services. From the first execution information of AIoT services, the execution progress of AIoT services, unexecuted AIoT services, the amount of AIoT service data to be transmitted, etc. can be obtained. This can help access network devices to configure AIoT resources reasonably and accurately. For example, AIoT resources corresponding to the amount of AIoT service data to be transmitted can be configured, thereby ensuring the smooth execution of AIoT services and avoiding resource waste.

[0027] In conjunction with the first aspect, in one possible implementation, the method further includes:

[0028] The third information received from the access network device indicates a first action, which includes suspending, continuing, or terminating the AIoT service by the communication node. The third information is determined based on the first information.

[0029] In this implementation, the first information reported by the communication node to the access network device (including at least one of the communication node's first state information, the first execution information of the AIoT service, and the state information of the AIoT device) can also trigger the access network device to decide on the subsequent behavior of the communication node, avoiding AIoT service failure and improving user experience. Optionally, when it is determined that the communication node is no longer suitable to continue executing the AIoT service, the communication node can be promptly instructed to terminate the AIoT service to avoid AIoT service failure and resource waste.

[0030] In conjunction with the first aspect, in one possible implementation, the method further includes: sending fourth information to the access network device, wherein the fourth information includes information for instructing the communication node to perform the AIoT service using AIoT resources.

[0031] In this approach, when the first information reported by the communication node to the access network device triggers a resource (re)configuration decision by the access network device, the communication node can send a resource request to the access network device to request the access network device to configure the first resource. For example, this approach is suitable for situations where the access network device cannot perceive the application layer information of the AIoT service. In this case, the communication node can send a resource request to the access network device even if it perceives the application layer information of the AIoT service. The access network device then configures the first resource based on this resource request, making the resource configuration more reasonable, avoiding resource waste, and ensuring the continuity of the AIoT service.

[0032] In conjunction with the first aspect, in one possible implementation, the fourth information carries cache parameters or resource parameters;

[0033] The buffer parameters are used to indicate the amount of AIoT service data to be transmitted or the time required for unexecuted AIoT services within the AIoT service.

[0034] The resource parameters include one or more of a first parameter, a second parameter, and a third parameter. The first parameter is used to indicate the time required for the AIoT service that has not yet been executed. The second parameter is used to indicate the amount of AIoT service data to be received. The third parameter is used to indicate the number of devices that have responded in the execution of the AIoT service.

[0035] In this approach, the information reported by the communication node to the access network device carries a variety of parameters to assist the access network device in configuring AIoT resources, enabling the access network device to configure resources reasonably and accurately, and avoiding resource waste caused by blindly configuring resources.

[0036] In conjunction with the first aspect, in one possible implementation, the first information is further used to indicate the configuration method of the first resource, which includes extending the usage time of the first resource or reconfiguring the first resource.

[0037] In this approach, if resources were previously configured for a communication node, but it is determined that these resources are insufficient to support the sequential execution of AIoT services, the communication node can delay the use of those resources based on an instruction, thereby ensuring service continuity. Alternatively, if it is determined that a new communication node needs to be selected, resources can be reconfigured for the newly selected node. The newly selected node can then execute AIoT services based on the configured resources, thus ensuring service continuity.

[0038] In conjunction with the first aspect, in one possible implementation, the first information is carried in a Radio Resource Control (RRC) message, a Media Access Control (MAC) control element (MAC CE), or a Downlink Control Information (DCI).

[0039] For example, the data transmission method between the communication node and the access network device can be selected based on actual needs to match the current network environment, thus making it applicable to more scenarios and providing good robustness.

[0040] Secondly, a communication method is provided, which can be executed by an access network device, or by a component (such as a circuit, chip, or chip system) configured in the access network device, or by a logic module or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the access network device. This application does not limit this approach. The following description uses an access network device as an example.

[0041] The method includes: receiving first information from a communication node, the first information including at least one of first status information of the communication node, status information of an AIoT device, and first execution information of an AIoT service, the first information being used to configure a first resource, the first resource being used for communication between the communication node and the AIoT device; and sending second information to the communication node, wherein the second information indicates the first resource.

[0042] In one possible implementation, the first information is used to configure the first resource, or it can be understood as the first information being used to determine whether to configure the first resource. For example, whether to configure the first resource is determined based on the content of the first information.

[0043] For example, the access network equipment includes a base station or means within a base station.

[0044] It should be understood that the access network device can determine whether to configure the first resource based on the first information. That is, the access network device is not necessarily required to configure the first resource after receiving the first information; it can also determine (or decide) not to configure the first resource based on the first information. In this case, there is no (or no) second information indicating the first resource. For example, whether the access network device configures the first resource depends on the content of the first information.

[0045] In this implementation, the access network device can configure resources (such as AIoT resources) for the communication nodes, enabling the communication nodes to communicate with AIoT devices based on these resources, thereby executing AIoT services. For example, the network device can receive at least one type of information reported by the communication nodes, such as information related to the status of the communication nodes, information related to the processing status of AIoT services (i.e., the first execution information of the AIoT services), and information related to the AIoT devices (i.e., the status information of the AIoT devices). This information is not directly obtainable by the network side (e.g., the access network device). Therefore, the access network device can determine whether to configure the first resource based on this information, avoiding resource waste caused by blindly deciding to configure resources without a basis for judgment, or AIoT service failure / high latency caused by deciding not to configure resources. Furthermore, when deciding on resource allocation, the access network device can also reasonably and accurately (re)configure AIoT resources based on the above information combined with at least one of the following: the status of communication nodes, the execution status of AIoT services, and the status of AIoT devices. This enables communication nodes to execute AIoT services based on the (re)configured AIoT resources, avoiding AIoT service failures, reducing task latency, and improving user experience.

[0046] In conjunction with the second aspect, in one possible implementation, the first state information of the communication node includes one or more of the following:

[0047] Information used to instruct the communication node to execute the AIoT service and to determine whether the communication node should perform cell handover;

[0048] Used to instruct the communication node to execute the AIoT service, and to provide information on wireless link failures;

[0049] Information used to indicate whether the communication node should continue, suspend, or terminate the AIoT service when a cell handover is triggered.

[0050] For example, the access network device can decide whether to (re)configure AIoT resources for a communication node based on the first state information of the communication node, thereby improving the accuracy and precision of (re)configuration of AIoT resources. For instance, if the access network device determines, based on the first state information of the communication node, that the network condition of the communication node is poor (e.g., a wireless link failure) when performing AIoT services, it can select a new communication node to perform the AIoT services. The access network device can then configure the first resources for the newly selected communication node, thus avoiding the waste of resources caused by configuring resources for the original communication node when the original communication node is unable to perform AIoT services.

[0051] In conjunction with the second aspect, in one possible implementation, the status information of the AIoT device includes one or more of the following:

[0052] Information used to indicate the signal quality of the AIoT device;

[0053] Information used to indicate the power status of the AIoT device.

[0054] For example, access network devices can decide whether to (re)configure AIoT resources for communication nodes based on the status information of AIoT devices, thereby improving the accuracy and precision of (re)configuration of AIoT resources. For instance, if the access network device determines, based on the status information of the AIoT device, that the signal quality of the AIoT device is poor, and decides that the AIoT device may no longer be able to perform AIoT services, reconfiguring the resources corresponding to that AIoT device might result in resource waste. Therefore, the access network device can reduce the configured AIoT resources to avoid resource waste.

[0055] In conjunction with the second aspect, in one possible implementation, the first execution information of the AIoT service includes one or more of the following:

[0056] Information used to indicate whether the AIoT device is performing the AIoT service;

[0057] Information used to indicate whether the AIoT device has completed the AIoT service;

[0058] Information used to indicate the time required for unexecuted AIoT services within the AIoT service;

[0059] Information used to indicate the amount of AIoT service data to be transmitted that is cached in the communication node;

[0060] Information used to indicate the amount of AIoT service data that the communication node is about to receive;

[0061] This information is used to indicate the number of devices awaiting a response in the AIoT service executed by the communication node.

[0062] For example, the access network device can obtain the execution progress of the AIoT service, the unexecuted AIoT service, the amount of AIoT service data to be transmitted, etc. from the first execution information of the AIoT service. The access network device can configure AIoT resources reasonably and accurately based on the above information. For example, the access network device can configure AIoT resources corresponding to the amount of AIoT service data to be transmitted, so as to avoid resource waste while ensuring the smooth execution of the AIoT service.

[0063] In conjunction with the second aspect, in one possible implementation, the method further includes:

[0064] A third message is sent to the communication node, the third message indicating a first action, the first action including the communication node suspending, continuing or terminating the AIoT service, and the third message being determined based on the first message.

[0065] In this implementation, the access network device can also decide on the subsequent behavior of the communication node based on the initial information reported by the communication node, thereby avoiding AIoT service failure and improving user experience. Optionally, when the access network device determines that the communication node is no longer suitable to continue performing AIoT services, it can promptly instruct the communication node to terminate the AIoT services, avoiding AIoT service failure and resource waste.

[0066] In conjunction with the second aspect, in one possible implementation, the method further includes:

[0067] Send a fifth message to the core network device. The fifth message includes at least one of the second execution information of the AIoT service and the second status information of the communication node. The fifth message is used to determine a second action. The second action includes the communication node suspending, continuing or terminating the AIoT service.

[0068] Receive a sixth message from the core network device, wherein the sixth message indicates the second action, and the first action is determined based on the second action.

[0069] In this approach, when the access network device triggers a resource (re)configuration decision based on information reported by the communication node, it can report the fifth piece of information to the core network device. The core network device then decides on the subsequent behavior of the communication node, which assists the access network device in determining the final behavior of the communication node, improving decision accuracy. For example, this approach is suitable for situations where the access network device cannot perceive application layer information. In this case, the core network device can determine the subsequent behavior of the communication node, thereby assisting the access network device in determining the behavior of the communication node.

[0070] In conjunction with the second aspect, in one possible implementation, the method further includes:

[0071] Sending second information to the communication node, wherein the method further includes:

[0072] Receive fourth information from the communication node, wherein the fourth information includes information for instructing the communication node on the AIoT resources required to perform the AIoT service.

[0073] In this approach, the access network device can configure the first resource based on a resource request from the communication node. For example, this method is suitable for situations where the access network device cannot perceive the application layer information of the AIoT service. In this case, the communication node can send a resource request to the access network device after perceiving the application layer information of the AIoT service. The access network device then configures the first resource based on this resource request, making resource configuration more rational, avoiding resource waste, and ensuring the continuity of the AIoT service.

[0074] In conjunction with the second aspect, in one possible implementation, the fourth information carries cache parameters or resource parameters;

[0075] The buffer parameters are used to indicate the amount of AIoT service data to be transmitted or the time required for unexecuted AIoT services within the AIoT service.

[0076] The resource parameters include one or more of a first parameter, a second parameter, and a third parameter. The first parameter is used to indicate the time required for the AIoT service that has not yet been executed. The second parameter is used to indicate the amount of AIoT service data to be received. The third parameter is used to indicate the number of devices that have responded in the execution of the AIoT service.

[0077] In this approach, the information reported by the communication node carries a variety of parameters to assist the access network device in configuring AIoT resources. This allows the access network device to configure resources reasonably and accurately based on these parameters, avoiding resource waste caused by blindly configuring resources.

[0078] In conjunction with the second aspect, in one possible implementation, the second execution information of the AIoT service includes one or more of the following:

[0079] The identifier of the AIoT service;

[0080] The identifier of the communication node;

[0081] The information about the amount of AIoT service data to be transmitted is cached in the access network device.

[0082] For example, the second execution information of the AIoT service can be used to reflect the specific type of the AIoT service, its execution status, and the communication node executing the AIoT service. This can then assist the core network device in deciding the behavior of the communication node in executing the AIoT service. Based on the decision made by the core network device, the access network device can further decide the behavior of the communication node in executing the AIoT service, thereby better assisting in the decision-making of the communication node's behavior, improving the user experience, and avoiding unnecessary waste of resources.

[0083] In conjunction with the second aspect, in one possible implementation, the second state information of the communication node includes one or more of the following:

[0084] Used to reflect base station information that provides services to the communication node;

[0085] The cell identifier of the communication node;

[0086] The location of the communication node;

[0087] The moving speed of the communication node;

[0088] The direction of movement of the communication node;

[0089] Information used to reflect wireless link failures at the communication node;

[0090] Information used to reflect cell handover events occurring at the communication node;

[0091] This information is used to reflect when the communication node enters the RRC idle state.

[0092] For example, the second state information of the communication node can be used to reflect the specific state of the communication node when performing AIoT services, which can then assist the core network device in deciding the behavior of the communication node in performing AIoT services. Based on the decision of the core network device, the access network device can further decide the behavior of the communication node in performing AIoT services, thereby better helping to decide the behavior of the communication node, improving the user experience, and avoiding unnecessary waste of resources.

[0093] In conjunction with the second aspect, in one possible implementation, the first information is further used to indicate the configuration method of the first resource, which includes extending the usage time of the first resource or reconfiguring the first resource.

[0094] In this approach, if resources were previously configured for a communication node, but it is determined that the resources are insufficient to support the sequential execution of AIoT services, the access network device can instruct the communication node to delay the use of those resources, thereby ensuring service continuity. Alternatively, if it is determined that a new communication node needs to be selected, the access device can reconfigure resources for the newly selected communication node, and then instruct the newly selected communication node to execute AIoT services based on the configured resources, thereby ensuring service continuity.

[0095] In conjunction with the second aspect, in one possible implementation, the first information is carried in a Radio Resource Control (RRC) message, a Media Access Control (MAC) control element (MAC CE), or a Downlink Control Information (DCI).

[0096] For example, the data transmission method between communication nodes and access network devices can be selected based on actual needs, thus making it applicable to more scenarios and exhibiting good robustness.

[0097] Thirdly, a communication method is provided, which can be executed by, for example, a core network device, or by a component (such as a circuit, chip, or chip system) configured in the core network device, or by a logic module or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the core network device. This application does not limit this approach. The following description uses a core network device as an example.

[0098] The method includes: receiving fifth information from an access network device, the fifth information being used to determine a second action, the second action including the communication node suspending, continuing, or terminating the AIoT service, the fifth information including at least one of second execution information of the AIoT service and second status information of the communication node;

[0099] A sixth message is sent to the access network device, wherein the sixth message indicates the second action.

[0100] In this approach, the information reported by the communication node to the access network device can trigger the access network device to make a resource (re)configuration decision. The access network device then sends fifth information to the core network device, which uses this fifth information to decide on the subsequent behavior of the communication node. For example, this approach is suitable for situations where the access network device cannot perceive application layer information. In this case, the access network device reports information to the core network device, which determines the subsequent behavior of the communication node (i.e., the second behavior), thereby assisting the access network device in determining the behavior of the communication node (i.e., the first behavior).

[0101] In conjunction with the third aspect, in one possible implementation, the second execution information of the AIoT service includes one or more of the following:

[0102] The identifier of the AIoT service;

[0103] The identifier of the communication node;

[0104] The information about the amount of AIoT service data to be transmitted is cached in the access network device.

[0105] For example, the second execution information of the AIoT service can be used to reflect the specific type of the AIoT service, its execution status, and the communication node executing the AIoT service. This can then assist the core network device in deciding the behavior of the communication node in executing the AIoT service. Based on the decision made by the core network device, the access network device can further decide the behavior of the communication node in executing the AIoT service, thereby better assisting in the decision-making of the communication node's behavior, improving the user experience, and avoiding unnecessary waste of resources.

[0106] In conjunction with the third aspect, in one possible implementation, the second state information of the communication node includes one or more of the following:

[0107] Information used to indicate base station services provided to the communication node;

[0108] The cell identifier of the communication node;

[0109] The location of the communication node;

[0110] The moving speed of the communication node;

[0111] The direction of movement of the communication node;

[0112] Used to instruct the communication node to execute the AIoT service, and to provide information on wireless link failures;

[0113] Information used to instruct the communication node to execute the AIoT service and to perform cell handover;

[0114] This information is used to instruct the communication node to execute the AIoT service and to enter the RRC idle state.

[0115] For example, the second state information of the communication node can be used to reflect the specific state of the communication node when performing AIoT services, which can then assist the core network device in deciding the behavior of the communication node in performing AIoT services. Based on the decision of the core network device, the access network device can further decide the behavior of the communication node in performing AIoT services, thereby better helping to decide the behavior of the communication node, improving the user experience, and avoiding unnecessary waste of resources.

[0116] Fourthly, embodiments of this application provide a communication device, which can be a communication node or a device or functional module within a communication node, wherein:

[0117] The communication device includes a module for performing the method described in the first aspect or any possible implementation thereof;

[0118] Alternatively, the communication device includes a processor for performing the method described in the first aspect or any possible implementation thereof.

[0119] Fifthly, embodiments of this application provide a communication device, which can be an access network device or a device or functional module within an access network device, wherein:

[0120] The communication device includes a module for performing the method described in the second aspect or any possible implementation thereof;

[0121] Alternatively, the communication device includes a processor for performing the method described in the second aspect or any possible implementation thereof.

[0122] Sixthly, embodiments of this application provide a communication device, which can be a core network device or a device or functional module within a core network device, wherein:

[0123] The communication device includes a module for performing the method described in the third aspect or any possible implementation of the third aspect;

[0124] Alternatively, the communication device includes a processor for performing the method described in the third aspect or any possible implementation thereof.

[0125] In a seventh aspect, embodiments of this application provide a communication device, characterized in that it includes a logic circuit and an interface, the logic circuit and the interface being coupled; the interface is used for inputting and / or outputting information, wherein:

[0126] The logic circuit is used to perform the method described in the first aspect or any possible implementation thereof, or...

[0127] The logic circuit is used to execute the method described in the second aspect or any possible implementation thereof, or...

[0128] The logic circuit is used to perform the method described in the third aspect or any possible implementation of the third aspect, or.

[0129] Eighthly, embodiments of this application provide a computer-readable storage medium for storing a computer program, wherein:

[0130] When the computer program is executed, it is capable of implementing the first aspect or any possible implementation of the first aspect, or...

[0131] When the computer program is executed, it is capable of implementing the second aspect or any possible implementation of the second aspect, or...

[0132] When the computer program is executed, it is capable of implementing the third aspect or any possible implementation of the third aspect.

[0133] Ninthly, embodiments of this application provide a communication system, which includes a communication node, an access network device, and a core network device, wherein:

[0134] The communication node is used to execute the method described in the first aspect or any possible implementation thereof;

[0135] The access network device is used to perform the method described in the second aspect or any possible implementation thereof;

[0136] The core network equipment is used to perform the method described in the third aspect or any possible implementation thereof.

[0137] In a tenth aspect, embodiments of this application provide a computer program that, when executed by a processor, causes a communication device including the processor to implement the method described in the first aspect or any possible implementation of the first aspect, or to implement the method described in the second aspect or any possible implementation of the second aspect, or to implement the method described in the third aspect or any possible implementation of the third aspect.

[0138] Eleventhly, embodiments of this application provide a chip system, which includes logic circuitry (or, as understood, a processor, which may include logic circuitry, etc.) and input / output interfaces. The input / output interfaces can be used to receive messages or to send messages. For example, when the chip system is used to implement the functions of a communication device, the input / output interfaces can be used to receive first information. The input / output interfaces can be the same interface, i.e., the same interface can implement both sending and receiving functions; or, the input / output interfaces include an input interface and an output interface, where the input interface is used to implement the receiving function, i.e., to receive messages; and the output interface is used to implement the sending function, i.e., to send messages. The logic circuitry can be used to perform operations other than the sending and receiving functions described in the first aspect; the logic circuitry can also be used to transmit messages to the input / output interfaces or to receive messages from other communication devices from the input / output interfaces. The chip system can be used to implement the methods described in the first aspect or any possible implementation of the first aspect, or to implement the methods described in the second aspect or any possible implementation of the second aspect, or to implement the methods described in the third aspect or any possible implementation of the third aspect. The chip system can be composed of chips or can include chips and other discrete devices.

[0139] Optionally, the chip system may also include a memory, which can be used to store instructions, and the logic circuits can call the instructions stored in the memory to implement the corresponding functions.

[0140] It should be understood that the descriptions of technical features, technical solutions, beneficial effects, or similar language in this application do not imply that all features and advantages can be achieved in any single embodiment. Rather, it is understood that the description of a feature or beneficial effect means that a specific technical feature, technical solution, or beneficial effect is included in at least one embodiment. Therefore, the descriptions of technical features, technical solutions, or beneficial effects in this specification do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the technical features, technical solutions, and beneficial effects described in this embodiment can be combined in any suitable manner. Those skilled in the art will understand that embodiments can be implemented without one or more specific technical features, technical solutions, or beneficial effects of a particular embodiment. In other embodiments, additional technical features and beneficial effects may be identified in specific embodiments that do not embody all embodiments. Attached Figure Description

[0141] The accompanying drawings used in the embodiments of this application are described below.

[0142] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the architecture of a communication system provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0143] Figures 2A to 2D are schematic diagrams of a network topology provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0144] Figure 3A is a schematic diagram of the interaction process of an AIoT resource configuration method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0145] Figure 3B is a schematic diagram of the interaction flow of another AIoT resource configuration method provided in the embodiment of this application;

[0146] Figure 4A is a flowchart illustrating a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0147] Figure 4B is a flowchart illustrating another communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0148] Figure 5 is a flowchart illustrating another communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0149] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of a MAC CE format provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0150] Figure 7A is a schematic diagram of a BSR MAC CE format provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0151] Figure 7B is a schematic diagram of another MAC CE format provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0152] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a communication device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0153] Figure 9 is a schematic diagram of the structure of another communication device provided in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0154] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this application clearer, the embodiments of this application will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0155] In this application, the terms "system" and "network" are used interchangeably. Unless otherwise stated, " / " indicates that the objects before and after are in an "or" relationship; for example, A / B can mean A or B. "And / or" in this application merely 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. Furthermore, in the description of this application, unless otherwise stated, "multiple" refers to two or more. "At least one of the following" or similar expressions refer to any combination of these items, including any combination of single or plural items. For example, at least one of a, b, or c can represent: a, b, c, ab, ac, bc, or abc, where a, b, and c can be one or more. Furthermore, to facilitate a clear description of the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application, the terms "first" and "second" are used in the embodiments of this application to distinguish between network elements and similar items with essentially the same function. Those skilled in the art will understand that the terms "first" and "second" do not limit the quantity or execution order, and that the terms "first" and "second" are not necessarily different.

[0156] References such as "in one implementation," "exemplarily," or "in one implementation" as described in the embodiments of this application mean that one or more embodiments of this application include a specific feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment. Therefore, phrases such as "in one embodiment," "in some embodiments," "in other embodiments," "in still other embodiments," etc., appearing in different parts of this specification do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, but rather mean "one or more, but not all, embodiments," unless otherwise specifically emphasized. The terms "comprising," "including," "having," and variations thereof mean "including but not limited to," unless otherwise specifically emphasized.

[0157] The following detailed embodiments further illustrate the objectives, technical solutions, and beneficial effects of this application. It should be understood that the following are merely specific embodiments of this application and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of this application. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made based on the technical solutions of this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application.

[0158] In the various embodiments of this application, unless otherwise specified or in case of logical conflict, the terminology and / or descriptions between different embodiments are consistent and can be referenced by each other. Technical features in different embodiments can be combined to form new embodiments based on their inherent logical relationships.

[0159] First, a brief introduction will be given to the implementation environment and application scenarios of the embodiments of this application.

[0160] The embodiments of this application can be applied to communication systems with 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) access type, as well as communication systems with non-3GPP access type. Optionally, 3GPP access type may include the following access technologies: Long Term Evolution (LTE) technology corresponding to 4G cellular networks, New Radio (NR) technology corresponding to 5G cellular networks, and satellite access methods defined by 3GPP (including low-Earth orbit satellites, medium-Earth orbit satellites, and geostationary satellites). The technical solutions provided in this application can also be applied to future communication systems.

[0161] Please refer to Figure 1. Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the architecture of a communication system provided in an embodiment of this application. For example, Figure 1 shows the interaction relationship between network functions (NF) and entities and the corresponding interfaces, taking the network service architecture of a 5G mobile communication system as an example. Optionally, as shown in Figure 1, the network functions and entities included in this communication system include, but are not limited to, the following network elements: user equipment (UE), access network (AN) or radio access network (RAN), user plane function (UPF) network elements, data network (DN), access and mobility management function (AMF) network elements, session management function (SMF) network elements, authentication server function (AUSF), policy control function (PCF) network elements, application function (AF) network elements, unified data management (UDM) network elements, network slice selection function (NSSF), network exposure function (NEF), network repository function (NRF), etc.

[0162] For example, UE, (R)AN, UPF, and DN are generally referred to as user plane network functions and entities (or user plane network elements or user plane channels), while other parts are generally referred to as control plane network functions and entities (or control plane network elements). Control plane network elements are defined by 3GPP as processing functions within a network. They have 3GPP-defined functional behaviors and 3GPP-defined interfaces. An NF can function as a network element running on proprietary hardware, a software instance running on proprietary hardware, or a virtual function instantiated on a suitable platform, such as a cloud infrastructure.

[0163] The main functions of some related network elements in the embodiments of this application are described below.

[0164] UE: The UE is a device with communication needs, including but not limited to: terminal equipment, user unit, user station, mobile station, mobile station, remote station, remote terminal equipment, mobile terminal equipment, user terminal equipment, wireless communication equipment, user agent, user device, cellular phone, cordless phone, session initiation protocol (SIP) phone, wireless local loop (WLL) station, personal digital assistant (PDA), handheld device with wireless communication function, computing device, processing device connected to wireless modem, vehicle equipment, wearable device, terminal equipment in the Internet of Things, home appliances, virtual reality device, terminal equipment in future 5G networks or terminal equipment in future evolved public land mobile network (PLMN) or other devices that can access the network.

[0165] (R)AN: The device that provides access. For example, the RAN can include various forms of radio access network equipment, such as base stations, macro base stations, micro base stations (also known as small cells), relay stations, access points, and distributed unit-control units (DU-CUs). Additionally, the aforementioned base stations can also be radio controllers in cloud radio access network (CRAN) scenarios, or relay stations, access points, vehicle-mounted equipment, wearable devices, or network equipment in future evolved public land mobile networks (PLMNs). Optionally, the (R)AN is primarily responsible for air interface-side radio resource management, quality of service (QoS) management, data compression, and encryption. An AN can be a non-3GPP access network, such as a trusted non-3GPP access network (TNAN), a trusted WLAN access network (TWAN), a non-trusted non-3GPP radio access network, a wired access network (WAN), or a wired-5G access network (W-5GAN). Specifically, the access network equipment corresponding to a trusted non-3GPP access network can be a trusted non-3GPP gateway function (TNGF); the access network equipment corresponding to a trusted WLAN access network can be a trusted WLAN interworking function (TWIF); the access network equipment corresponding to a non-trusted non-3GPP access network can be a non-3GPP interworking function (N3IWF); and the access network equipment corresponding to a wired access network or a wired-5G access network can be a wired-access gateway function (W-AGF). In systems employing different wireless access technologies, the names of devices with base station functions may vary. For example, in 5th generation (5G) systems, they are called gNB; in LTE systems, they are called evolved NodeB (eNB or eNodeB); and in 3rd generation (3G) systems, they are called Node B, etc.For ease of description, regardless of whether (R)AN is RAN or AN, it can be uniformly referred to as access network equipment.

[0166] AMF: Also known as Mobility Management Function, it is mainly responsible for mobility management in mobile networks, such as user location updates, user network registration, and user handover.

[0167] AF network element: mainly supports interaction with the 3GPP core network to provide services, such as influencing data routing decisions, policy control functions, or providing some third-party services to the network side.

[0168] The functions of the other network elements included in Figure 1 can be found in the relevant descriptions in conventional technologies, and will not be repeated here.

[0169] Optionally, the names of the network elements and the interface names between them in Figure 1 are just examples. In actual implementation, the names of the network elements or the interfaces between them may be different, or the network elements may also be referred to as entities. This application embodiment does not specifically limit this. All or some of the network elements in Figure 1 can be physical entity network elements or virtualized network elements, which is not limited here.

[0170] In Figure 1, Nnssf, Nnef, Nnrf, Npcf, Nudm, Naf, Nausf, Namf, and Nsmf are the service interfaces provided by NSSF, NEF, NRF, PCF, UDM, AF, AUSF, AMF, and SMF, respectively, used to call the corresponding service operations. N1, N2, N3, N4, and N6 are interface sequence numbers.

[0171] It should be noted that, with the iteration and evolution of communication technologies, some network elements in the above communication system may be renamed or given more or fewer functions. Furthermore, the above communication system is illustrated using a 5G communication architecture as an example; the related methods and processes described later can actually be implemented based on other communication architectures, such as 3G, 4G, and new communication technologies introduced in the future. This application's embodiments do not limit these implementations.

[0172] Based on the communication system shown in Figure 1, Ambient IoT (AIoT) devices can be deployed. These AIoT devices can access the network through the communication system shown in Figure 1 to achieve intelligent interconnection and management. For example, the user equipment (UE) mentioned earlier (the UE shown in Figure 1) can specifically be a communication node of the AIoT device. The UE can communicate with the AIoT device by transmitting and receiving radio frequency signals. The communication node of the AIoT device can also be called a reader / writer. In some examples, the communication node of the AIoT device can be a terminal, or a device integrated into the terminal or located in the same location as the terminal. Optionally, there can be one or more AIoT devices, usually multiple, and the aforementioned AF can maintain a batch of AIoT devices.

[0173] An AIoT device is a device that has the capability to access AIoT and achieve intelligent interconnection. For example, after being connected to a communication system, an AIoT device is typically located at the end of the communication system. Optionally, an AIoT device may include sensors, such as temperature sensors, hygrometers, smoke sensors, etc.

[0174] In one implementation, AIoT devices can have multiple network topologies in the communication system. Several topologies are listed below:

[0175] As shown in Figure 2A, in Topology 1, the path from the AIoT device to the access network device (R)AN is: (R)AN → AIoT device. For example, in Topology 1, the AIoT device and the access network device (R)AN can directly communicate bidirectionally.

[0176] Topology 2, as shown in Figure 2B, follows the path from the AIoT device to the access network device (R)AN: (R)AN — intermediate node — AIoT device. Exemplarily, in Topology 2, the AIoT device communicates with the intermediate node located between the AIoT device and the access network device (R)AN. Optionally, in Topology 2, the intermediate node can be a communication node with communication capabilities (e.g., access network capabilities), specifically including a User Equipment (UE), a relay, an Integrated Access Backhaul (IAB) node, a repeater (RP), etc. Optionally, the UE includes a UE Reader with AIoT capabilities.

[0177] As shown in Figure 2C, in topology 3, the path from the AIoT device to the access network device (R)AN is: (R)AN — assisting node — AIoT device — (R)AN. Exemplarily, in topology 3, the AIoT device transmits data / signaling to the (R)AN and receives data / signaling from the assisting node. Optionally, in topology 2, the assisting node may specifically include a user equipment (UE), a relay, an IAB node, a repeater (RP), etc. Optionally, the user equipment (UE) may include a UE reader with AIoT capabilities.

[0178] Topology 4, as shown in Figure 2D, replaces the network access function of (R)AN on the mobile node (such as UE): AIoT device – UE. For example, in topology 4, bidirectional communication occurs between the AIoT device and the UE.

[0179] For example, the subsequent method flow will be described with reference to the topology 2 shown in Figure 2B. In fact, when the topology is changed to Figure 2A, Figure 2C, Figure 2D or other topologies, the overall logic of the method flow remains unchanged. However, the relevant communication messages may pass through other nodes, or the processing of the relevant communication messages may be changed to other nodes.

[0180] For ease of understanding, the execution flow of AIoT services will be explained below using the communication system of topology 2 shown in Figure 2B as an example. Exemplarily, the communication system of topology 2 includes, but is not limited to: AIoT devices, communication nodes, access network devices, core network devices, and AF (Automatic AF).

[0181] For example, please refer to Figure 3A, which is a schematic diagram of the interaction flow of an AIoT resource configuration method provided in an embodiment of this application. The execution flow includes the following steps:

[0182] Step 10: The communication node establishes a communication connection with the core network equipment.

[0183] Step 11: The AF sends an AIoT service request to the core network equipment. Correspondingly, the core network equipment receives the AIoT service request.

[0184] For example, the business types of AIoT service requests include, but are not limited to, inventory and command.

[0185] As an example, an inventory request is used to inventory all or matching AIoT devices in a target area (such as a warehouse), or to determine whether a specific device / group of devices exists in a particular area (e.g., in a goods inbound / outbound statistics scenario). Exemplarily, an inventory request may include the following parameters: transaction number (e.g., Transaction ID or Task ID), a list of device IDs (e.g., including the Device ID of the device to be registered), a list of operator IDs (e.g., Operator ID), a group ID (e.g., Group ID), area information (e.g., the geographical location of the area where the device to be registered is located), AF identifier (e.g., AF ID), device identification information, etc. In an alternative scenario, the device identification information may simply be the Device ID.

[0186] As an example, a command request is used to operate an AIoT device, such as reading data stored in the AIoT device or writing data to the AIoT device. For example, a command request may include the following parameters: transaction number (e.g., Transaction ID or Task ID), a list of Device IDs (e.g., including the Device ID of the AIoT device), a list of Operator IDs (e.g., Operator ID), a group identifier (e.g., Group ID), area information (e.g., the geographical location information of the area where the AIoT device is located), AF identifier (e.g., AF ID), operation type (e.g., read operation, write operation, start, disable, etc.), etc.

[0187] Step 12: The core network device sends an AIoT service request to the access network device. Correspondingly, the access network device receives the AIoT service request.

[0188] It should be noted that the 5G Core network (5GC) can add a new network element, AIoTF, to execute AIoT services. AIoTF is used to manage AIoT devices and related processes (such as registration). For example, AIoTF can be a standalone network element or integrated into other network elements (such as AMF). For example, if no new AIoTF is added, AMF can replace its related functions (managing AIoT devices and related processes (such as inventory)).

[0189] For example, the AMF or AIoTF in the core network equipment sends an AIoT service request to the access network equipment (such as gNB). This AIoT device request may carry information such as an AIoT ID list, Transaction ID, Operator ID list, TA list, and UE ID. Among them, the UE identifier is used to indicate the UE used to perform the AIoT service.

[0190] Step 13: The access network device sends an AIoT service request to the communication node. Correspondingly, the communication node receives the AIoT service request.

[0191] For example, the access network device receives an AIoT service request from the AMF or AIoTF in the core network device, and sends the AIoT service request to the communication node indicated by the UE ID in the AIoT service request. Correspondingly, the communication node receives the AIoT service request from the access network device.

[0192] In one possible approach, the access network device and the communication node establish a Radio Resource Control (RRC) connection and send AIoT service requests via RRC messages through the RRC connection.

[0193] In one possible scenario, when a NAS connection is established between a communication node and a core network device, the access network device transparently transmits AIoT service requests carried on the NAS connection. It is unaware of the AIoT content carried in the AIoT service requests, and therefore needs to send the request to the communication node, which then parses the AIoT service request and requests communication resources from the access network device.

[0194] In one possible scenario, when the communication node and UPF communicate through a PUD session, the access network device only forwards AIoT service requests and is unaware of the content carried in the AIoT service requests. Therefore, it needs to send the request to the communication node, which then parses the AIoT service request and requests communication resources from the access network device.

[0195] Step 14: The communication node sends an AIoT resource request to the access network device. Correspondingly, the access network device receives the AIoT resource request.

[0196] For example, communication between communication nodes and AIoT devices requires the use of AIoT communication resources, which need to be controlled by the network side (such as access network devices) and allocated and managed by the network side.

[0197] Optionally, the communication node receives an AIoT service request and can request AIoT resources from the access network device based on the AIoT service request.

[0198] Step 15: The access network device allocates AIoT resources to the communication node. Correspondingly, the communication node receives the AIoT resources.

[0199] For example, the access network device receives an AIoT resource request and allocates AIoT resources to the communication node based on the AIoT resource request. The AIoT resources include a set of radio resources and resource validity criteria (such as resource validity duration, resource validity area, etc.).

[0200] Optionally, the resource validity period refers to the validity period that the access network device can set for the AIoT resource when configuring it for the communication node. Optionally, the communication node starts a resource validity timer when using the AIoT resource, and the AIoT resource becomes invalid after the timer expires.

[0201] Optionally, the effective resource area refers to the fact that the AIoT resources configured by the access network device for the communication node can be effective within a single cell, or in multiple cells under the same access network or multiple cells under different access networks. Optionally, if the AIoT resources are effective within the serving cell where the resources are configured, the access network device needs to reconfigure the resources for the communication node when it switches to a new cell.

[0202] Step 16: The communication node executes AIoT services for the AIoT device.

[0203] Step 17: The AIoT device sends an AIoT service response to the communication node. Correspondingly, the AIoT device receives the AIoT service response.

[0204] For example, when the AIoT service type is inventory service, the AIoT device reports the device ID to the communication node.

[0205] For example, when the AIoT service type is a command service, the AIoT device executes the command and returns the command result to the communication node.

[0206] Step 18: The communication node sends an AIoT service response to the AF. Correspondingly, the AF receives the AIoT service response.

[0207] For example, when the AIoT service type is inventory service, the communication node sends an inventory response or inventory notification to the AF. Optionally, the inventory response or inventory notification may include the device identifier or aggregated reporting content.

[0208] For example, when the AIoT service type is a command service, the communication node sends a command response or command notification to the AF. Optionally, the command response or command notification may include the aggregation result.

[0209] For example, please refer to Figure 3B, which is a schematic diagram of the interaction flow of another AIoT resource configuration method provided in the embodiment of this application. The execution flow includes the following steps:

[0210] Step 20: The communication node establishes a communication connection with the core network equipment.

[0211] Step 21: The AF sends an AIoT service request to the core network device. Correspondingly, the core network device receives the AIoT service request.

[0212] For example, a detailed description of step 21 can be found in step 11 above, and will not be repeated here.

[0213] Step 22: The core network device sends an AIoT service request to the access network device. Correspondingly, the access network device receives the AIoT service request.

[0214] For example, a detailed description of step 22 can be found in step 12 above, and will not be repeated here.

[0215] Step 23: The access network device sends an AIoT service request and AIoT resources to the communication node. Correspondingly, the communication node receives the AIoT service request and the AIoT resources.

[0216] For example, the access network device and the communication node establish a Radio Resource Control (RRC) connection, and send AIoT service requests via RRC messages. The access network device can sense the AIoT content carried in the AIoT service request and configure AIoT resources for the communication node based on the AIoT service request. The description of the AIoT resources can be found in step 15 above, and will not be repeated here.

[0217] Step 24: The communication node executes AIoT services for the AIoT device.

[0218] For example, a detailed description of step 24 can be found in step 16 above, and will not be repeated here.

[0219] Step 25: The AIoT device sends an AIoT service response to the communication node. Correspondingly, the communication node receives the AIoT service response.

[0220] For example, a detailed description of step 25 can be found in step 17 above, and will not be repeated here.

[0221] Step 26: The communication node sends an AIoT service response to the AF. Correspondingly, the AF receives the AIoT service response.

[0222] For example, a detailed description of step 26 can be found in step 18 above, and will not be repeated here.

[0223] In summary, current data transmission architectures include the following: RRC-based architecture, NAS-based architecture, and UP-based architecture. Based on these architectures, the AIoT resource configuration methods shown in Figure 3A (communication nodes request AIoT resources from access network devices) and Figure 3B (access network devices can directly configure AIoT resources for communication nodes) can be determined. It is understood that the AIoT resource configuration methods shown in Figure 3A and Figure 3B can be used simultaneously.

[0224] In the process of configuring AIoT resources for communication nodes by access network devices based on the above data transmission architecture, the following situations / scenarios may occur, which may trigger AIoT resource configuration / reconfiguration:

[0225] For example, in a resource failure scenario: when AIoT resources fail (e.g., when a resource validity timer expires or a communication node switches to a new cell), the network side (e.g., access network devices) needs to (re)allocate resources to the communication node to improve the user experience.

[0226] For example, in a dynamic resource request scenario, a communication node can request an update to the resource configuration from the network side based on real-time business needs (such as the amount of AIoT data transmitted from AIoT devices to the communication node).

[0227] For example, regarding UE state changes: the communication node includes a UE Reader, which can send UE state change information (such as location, speed, etc.) to the access network device. The network side can then use this UE state change information to make resource allocation decisions. For instance, if the UE state change information reflects that the communication node has moved too far from the AIoT device, the network side can choose to terminate the current AIoT service and therefore not allocate resources to it.

[0228] In view of this, this application provides a communication method, which specifically includes configuring / reconfiguring AIoT resources, thereby reducing the latency of AIoT services and improving user experience.

[0229] It should be noted that the AIoT resource mentioned in the embodiments of this application is an example of the first resource. The first resource may also have other forms of expression / other names, and this application does not limit it.

[0230] The communication method provided in the embodiments of this application will be described in detail below with reference to Figures 4A, 4B and 5.

[0231] Please refer to Figure 4A, which is a flowchart illustrating a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application. This method can be implemented based on the architecture shown in Figure 1 or other architectures, and the dependent topology can be any of the topologies shown in Figures 2B-2D or other topologies. The method includes, but is not limited to, the following steps:

[0232] Step S401: The communication node sends first information to the access network device, and the access network device receives the first information accordingly.

[0233] Specifically, the first information includes at least one of the following: the first status information of the communication node, the status information of the AIoT device, and the first execution information of the AIoT service.

[0234] In other words, S401 can also be described as the communication node sending at least one of the following to the access network device: the first status information of the communication node, the status information of the AIoT device, and the first execution information of the AIoT service.

[0235] For example, the first information is used to configure the first resource. It should be understood that the first information can be used by the access network device to determine whether to configure the first resource or not. It should be understood that the access network device can determine whether to configure the first resource based on the first information; that is, the access network device is not necessarily required to configure the first resource after receiving the first information, but can also determine (or decide) not to configure the first resource based on the first information. In this case, there is no (or no) second information indicating the first resource. For example, whether the access network device configures the first resource depends on the content of the first information.

[0236] In one possible implementation, the communication node can execute AIoT services (such as inventory tasks and / or command tasks) based on the AIoT resources configured by the access network device. During or before executing the AIoT service, the communication node can send one or more of the following information to the access network device: the communication node's first status information, the AIoT device's status information, and the first execution information of the AIoT service, to trigger the access network device to configure the AIoT resources required for executing the AIoT service (example of the first resource). In another possible implementation, the first information sent by the communication node to the access network device may include: flags, indicator identifiers, Task ID / Transaction ID, UEreader ID / UE ID, resource parameters, etc. The resource parameters include, but are not limited to: estimated resource usage time, frequency, estimated amount of data to be received, estimated number of device responses, etc. The indicator identifier is used to indicate at least one of the following: whether to request resources, whether to update resources, whether to reconfigure resources, etc. In one implementation, there may be more than one indicator identifier, and each indicator identifier may correspond to one indication. Flags are used to indicate whether resource parameters are carried. In one implementation, there may be more than one flag, and each flag identifies a different type of resource parameter. For example, a flag of 0 indicates that the resource parameter it identifies is valid, and a flag of 1 indicates that the resource parameter it identifies is invalid. In one implementation, the content carried in the first information is determined based on at least one of the following: first state information of the communication node, state information of the AIoT device, and first execution information of the AIoT service.

[0237] For example, the first state information of the communication node includes one or more of the following: information for instructing the communication node to perform AIoT services and whether the communication node performs cell handover; information for instructing the communication node to perform AIoT services and when a radio link failure occurs; and information for instructing the communication node to continue, suspend, or terminate the AIoT services when a cell handover is triggered.

[0238] As an example, the information used to indicate whether a communication node is performing an AIoT service and whether it is performing a cell handover includes one or more of the following: indications or information indicating that an AIoT air interface process is in progress between the communication node and the AIoT device; AIoT service identifiers (such as Task ID); communication node identifiers (UE ID) and / or their reader identifiers (Reader ID); measurement results of the communication node on key information such as signal strength and / or signal quality of surrounding cells; information indicating whether previously allocated AIoT resources are available in surrounding cells; base station load status; channel resource occupancy status; network topology information, etc. In one implementation, at least one of the indications or information indicating that an AIoT air interface process is in progress between the communication node and the AIoT device, AIoT service identifiers (such as Task ID), communication node identifiers (UE ID), and / or their reader identifiers (Reader ID) is used to indicate the AIoT service performed by the communication node. In one implementation, at least one of the following is used to indicate whether the communication node should perform a cell handover: measurement results of key information such as signal strength and / or signal quality of surrounding cells; information indicating whether previously allocated AIoT resources are available in surrounding cells; base station load; channel resource occupancy; and network topology information. For example, if the measurement results indicate that the signal quality of the current serving cell is poor, the communication node may perform a cell handover; if the measurement results indicate that the signal quality of the current serving cell is good, the communication node may not perform a cell handover. Exemplarily, the measurement results include one or more of the following: received signal strength indication (RSSI), reference signal receiving power (RSRP), reference signal receiving quality (RSRQ), signal to interference plus noise ratio (SINR), etc. RSSI is used to indicate the signal strength of different cells, RSRP is used to indicate the signal strength of each adjacent cell, and RSRQ is used to indicate the relationship between signal strength and interference. For example, base station load status is used to indicate the resource usage of the base station, such as central processing unit (CPU) utilization and transmission bandwidth utilization. For example, channel resource utilization is used to indicate the signal resource usage of the current serving cell, such as excessive physical resource block (PRB) utilization while neighboring cells have more idle signal resources.Optionally, the handover measurement report also includes the communication node's identification information for each measured cell, such as the physical cell identifier (PCI).

[0239] As an example, information used to instruct a communication node to perform AIoT services and indicating a wireless link failure includes one or more of the following: physical layer information, data link layer information, network layer information, and application layer information. In one implementation, application layer information is used to indicate the AIoT services performed by the communication node. In one implementation, at least one of physical layer information, data link layer information, and network layer information is used to indicate a wireless link failure at the communication node. Exemplarily, physical layer information includes one or more of the following: received signal strength indication consistently below a certain threshold, signal-to-interference-plus-noise ratio (SINR) below a certain threshold, and loss of physical layer synchronization signal. Exemplarily, data link layer information includes one or more of the following: excessively high bit error rate, excessive data retransmissions, and link layer protocol errors. Exemplarily, network layer and above information includes one or more of the following: Internet Protocol (IP) packet loss, transport layer connection termination, and application layer no response. For example, the application layer information includes one or more of the following: indications or information indicating that an AIoT air interface process is in progress between the communication node and the AIoT device, AIoT service identifier (such as Task ID), communication node identifier (UE ID) and / or its reader identifier (Reader ID), and the time taken for the communication node to recover network connectivity from suffering a wireless link failure.

[0240] As an example, when configuring AIoT resources to a communication node (e.g., step 15 in Figure 3A or step 23 in Figure 3B), the access network device can pre-configure behavioral criteria. These criteria include, but are not limited to, continuing, suspending, or terminating the communication node when it temporarily loses network connectivity (OOC) (e.g., triggering cell handover or radio link failure (RLF)). For example, when a communication node triggers cell handover, it can report information to the access network device instructing the communication node to continue, suspend, or terminate the AIoT service process according to the behavioral criteria. For example, the information instructing the communication node to continue, suspend, or terminate the AIoT service process when triggering cell handover includes, but is not limited to, one or more of the following: the reason for triggering cell handover (e.g., signal strength within a certain range (obstacles, strong interference, long distance)), the start of the T304 timer, and the suspension, termination, or continuation of the AIoT service process during cell handover.

[0241] For example, the status information of an AIoT device includes one or more of the following: information indicating the signal quality of the AIoT device; and information indicating the power status of the AIoT device.

[0242] As an example, information used to indicate the signal quality of an AIoT device includes one or more of the following: Received Signal Strength Indication (RSSI), Reference Received Power (RSRP), Reference Received Quality (RSRQ), Signal-to-Interference-plus-Noise Ratio (SINR), Bit Error Rate (BER), Packet Loss Rate, Data Transmission Rate, Transmission Delay, etc.

[0243] In one implementation, the communication node can periodically report the average signal quality of AIoT devices over a period of time (e.g., 30 minutes, 1 hour, 3 hours) to the access network device. Alternatively, the communication node can report information indicating the signal quality of AIoT devices to the access network device when the signal quality of AIoT devices falls below a certain threshold.

[0244] As an example, information used to indicate the power status of an AIoT device includes one or more of the following: power value, power percentage, battery icon indicator, low power warning, charging status indicator, power consumption rate, battery health status information, etc.

[0245] For example, the first execution information of the AIoT service includes one or more of the following: information indicating whether the AIoT device is executing; information indicating whether the AIoT device has completed execution; information indicating the time required for unexecuted AIoT services in the AIoT service; information indicating the amount of AIoT service data to be transmitted cached in the communication node; information indicating the amount of AIoT service data to be received; and information indicating the number of devices waiting to respond in the execution of the AIoT service.

[0246] As an example, information used to indicate whether an AIoT device is performing an operation includes one or more of the following: changes in data traffic, changes in device power consumption, interaction signals, sensor data, etc. For instance, when an AIoT device is performing a task, it typically involves data uploading or downloading, such as transmitting inventory data to a communication node. This will significantly increase network data traffic, and monitoring the device's network data transmission activity can help determine if the task is being performed. As another example, when executing command tasks, different AIoT devices may send and receive signals through specific communication protocols to coordinate workflows. Monitoring the interaction signals between these devices can indicate whether the task is being performed.

[0247] As an example, information used to indicate whether an AIoT device has completed its task includes one or more of the following: data upload completion flag, scanning action stopped and count reset to zero, comparison with a preset list completed, action execution stopped and status restored, feedback information confirmed, task progress bar display completed, clock / timer for receiving AIoT responses, and responses based on the number of responding devices and received device responses. For example, in an AIoT service scenario, the access network device can set a clock for receiving AIoT responses based on the end-to-end latency provided by the AF. Optionally, an AIoT response received within the valid time of this clock is considered a valid response, and the period before timeout can be considered as the AIoT device executing a node. Optionally, an AIoT response received after the clock expires is considered an invalid response, and the timeout (expiration) of the clock / timer for receiving AIoT responses can be considered as the AIoT device completing its task. For example, in the inventory counting scenario of AIoT business, assuming that the number of responding devices corresponding to the AIoT business is 1,000, and 875 device responses have been received, it can be said that there are still unreceived device responses, indicating that the AIoT device has not completed the process; if the number of received device responses is equal to the number of responding devices, it can be said that the AIoT device has completed the process.

[0248] As an example, information used to indicate the time required for an unexecuted AIoT service in an AIoT service includes one or more of the following: remaining service time, number of device responses received, number of device responses to be received, current access round, device conflict during access, Q value of random access, etc.

[0249] For example, if the resources previously allocated by the access network node (e.g., gNB) have a valid duration, and if the resource timer is about to expire (timeout), but the AIoT service has not yet been completed, the communication node (e.g., UEreader) will request additional resources from the NW. Optionally, when requesting resources, the remaining service time can be carried. The remaining service time is estimated based on one or more of the following: the number of device responses received, the number of device responses to be received, the current access round (query round / access round), the device conflict situation during access, and the Q value of random access.

[0250] For example, a communication node sends AIoT service requests to multiple AIoT devices (e.g., 100 AIoT devices). When it receives 90 AIoT service responses, it means that the number of device responses received is 90, and the number of device responses to be received is 10.

[0251] For example, device conflict during access includes the types and manifestations of conflicts when AIoT devices access the network. Optionally, conflict types include, but are not limited to: signal interference conflicts, resource contention conflicts, protocol incompatibility conflicts, etc. Conflict manifestations include, but are not limited to: access failure, unstable connection, data transmission errors, etc.

[0252] For example, an access round refers to the number of times a communication node sends a paging message to an AIoT device. It can be understood that in an AIoT system, when communication is needed with one or more AIoT devices that are in a sleep, low-power state, or whose location in the network is unclear, a paging message can be sent to wake up these AIoT devices, enabling them to access the network. Optionally, if one paging message cannot fully wake up the AIoT device corresponding to the AIoT service, another paging message can be sent; each paging message can be considered an access round.

[0253] For example, during the random access process of an AIoT device, the paging message sent by the communication node to the AIoT device carries a Q value, which indicates the number of time slots in the random access process. Optionally, the communication node can determine the number of time slots based on an inventory list. Assuming the inventory list corresponds to 89 AIoT devices, the number of time slots can be 89. In one implementation, by allocating time slots to each AIoT device, the AIoT device can transmit data within the corresponding time slot. However, when a time slot is allocated to two or more AIoT devices, signal conflicts may occur, preventing data transmission and thus preventing the communication node from receiving device responses. In one implementation, the communication node can send another paging message to the AIoT device, carrying a Q value determined based on the received device responses. Assuming the inventory list corresponds to 89 AIoT devices and 80 device responses have been received, the number of time slots indicated by the Q value can be 9.

[0254] For example, the information used to indicate the amount of AIoT service data to be transmitted cached in the communication node includes one or more of the following: the size of the data cached locally by the communication node, the aggregation capability of the communication node, the aggregation result, etc. For example, during the execution of AIoT services, the communication node can receive AIoT service responses from AIoT devices, which carry data from the AIoT devices. The communication node can first cache the data from the AIoT devices. In one implementation, the communication node prepares to aggregate the received data from the AIoT devices to obtain an aggregation result and prepares to transmit the aggregation result to the access network device via the Uu port, but the aggregation result has not yet been transmitted. For example, in one implementation, the information used to indicate the amount of AIoT service data to be transmitted cached in the communication node can assist in the allocation of Uu port resources.

[0255] In one implementation, the communication node may periodically send information to the access network device indicating the amount of AIoT service data cached in the communication node for transmission. Alternatively, when the amount of cached data for transmission exceeds a certain threshold, the communication node may send information to the access network device indicating the amount of cached AIoT service data for transmission.

[0256] As an example, information indicating the amount of AIoT service data to be received includes one or more of the following: the number of devices to be received and the data size of the AIoT devices, etc. For instance, the number of devices to be received and the data size of the AIoT devices can be used to estimate the amount of data to be received. Assuming there are 80 devices to be received in the AIoT service and the data size of each AIoT device is 50Kb, then the amount of data to be received would be 4000Kb. Optionally, the data size of the AIoT devices can be estimated based on the data size of previously received AIoT devices and historical data sizes.

[0257] As an example, information indicating the number of devices awaiting a response in an AIoT service includes one or more of the following: the number of devices awaiting reception in the AIoT service, the number of devices that have responded, and the number of devices that have not responded, etc. For example, assuming there are 90 devices awaiting reception in the AIoT service, 70 devices that have responded, then there are 20 devices that have not responded.

[0258] Step S402: The access network device determines the second information based on the first information.

[0259] As an optional solution, step S402 is optional. For example, after step S401, the access network device may skip step S402 and instead execute step S403.

[0260] For example, the first information includes at least one of the following: first status information of the communication node, status information of the AIoT device, and first execution information of the AIoT service.

[0261] For example, the first information is used to trigger whether the access network device configures the first resource, and the second information indicates the first resource, which is used for communication between the communication node and the AIoT device.

[0262] For example, the first information is also used to trigger the access network device to determine the first action, and the third information indicates the first action. In this case, the third information can be the second information, and the third information indicates the first resource and the first action.

[0263] In one implementation, the access network device determines that a new communication node needs to be selected based on the first state information of the communication node, determines the amount of AIoT service data based on the state information of the AIoT device and the first execution information of the AIoT service, and configures the first resource for the newly selected communication node based on the determined amount of AIoT service data.

[0264] In another implementation, the access network device determines that the communication node currently executing the AIoT service can continue to execute the AIoT service based on the first state information of the communication node, determines the AIoT service data volume based on the state information of the AIoT device and the first execution information of the AIoT service, and configures the first resource for the current communication node based on the determined AIoT service data volume.

[0265] In another implementation, if the access network device determines that a communication node is no longer suitable for executing AIoT services based on the first state information of the communication node, the state information of the AIoT device, and the first execution information of the AIoT service, it may not configure the first resource for the communication node. Alternatively, if it determines that an AIoT device is no longer suitable for executing AIoT services, it may not configure the first resource corresponding to that AIoT device for the communication node.

[0266] In another implementation, when the access network device determines, based on the first state information of the communication node, that the communication node is about to switch to a new cell during the execution of AIoT services, it can trigger the access network device to reconfigure AIoT resources (an example of the first resource). That is, the access network device reselects the communication node and configures the first resource for the newly selected communication node. For example, the reconfigured first resource is valid in the current serving cell (the new cell after the switch). Optionally, if the previously configured AIoT resources are only valid within the serving cell where the resources were configured, when the access network device determines, based on the information reported by the communication node, that the communication node is switching to a new cell, the access network device reconfigures the AIoT resources of the new cell for the communication node.

[0267] In another implementation, if the access network device determines, based on the first state information of the communication node, that a wireless connection failure has occurred during the execution of an AIoT service, it can determine not to configure the first resource for the communication node. Optionally, the access network device can determine that the communication node suspends the AIoT service (one example of the first action). Optionally, the access network device can reselect a communication node and configure the first resource for the reselected communication node.

[0268] In another implementation, the access network device determines, based on the first state information of the communication node, that when the communication node terminates the AIoT service during cell handover, it may not configure AIoT resources. Alternatively, the access network device may reselect the communication node, configure the first resources for the reselected communication node, and instruct the communication node to continue the AIoT process.

[0269] In another implementation, if the access network device determines, based on the first state information of the communication node, that the communication node has suspended AIoT services during cell handover, the access network device can reselect a communication node and configure first resources for the reselected communication node. Optionally, it can determine that the communication node terminates the AIoT service (an example of the first action).

[0270] In another implementation, if the access network device determines, based on the first state information of the communication node, that the communication node should continue AIoT services during cell handover, then the access network device can decide to suspend the AIoT services. Optionally, the access network device configures the communication node to suspend AIoT services (the first line is an example).

[0271] In another implementation, if the access network device determines, based on the first state information of the communication node, that the communication node terminates the AIoT service during cell handover, it may not configure AIoT resources. Alternatively, the access network device may reselect a communication node and configure the first resources for the reselected communication node. In another implementation, if the access network device determines, based on the first execution information of the AIoT service, that the AIoT resources allocated to the communication node are insufficient, it may trigger the access network device to reconfigure the AIoT resources. For example, it may extend the duration of the previously allocated AIoT resources (such as the AIoT resources configured in step 15 of Figure 3A or step 23 of Figure 3B) or restart the resource validity duration timer (such as the timer started when configuring AIoT resources in step 15 of Figure 3A or step 23 of Figure 3B).

[0272] In another implementation, when the access network device determines, based on the first execution information of the AIoT service, that the AIoT resources allocated to the communication node have been exhausted, it can trigger the access network device to reconfigure the AIoT resources, for example, by reconfiguring the frequency band of the AIoT resources. In another implementation, the access network device can configure the first resource for the communication node based on the AIoT service data volume determined by the first execution information of the AIoT service.

[0273] In another implementation, when the access network device determines, based on the AIoT device's status information, that the AIoT device has poor signal quality (e.g., signal quality below a certain threshold) and / or poor battery status (e.g., battery level below a certain threshold), it may not configure the first resource for the communication node. Optionally, the access network device may instruct the communication node to suspend / terminate the AIoT service (an example of the first action). Exemplarily, the access network device may instruct the communication node to suspend / terminate the AIoT service corresponding to the AIoT device with poor signal quality and / or poor battery status.

[0274] In another implementation, when the access network device determines the AIoT resources required to execute the AIoT service based on the first execution information of the AIoT service, it configures the first resource for the communication node based on the determined AIoT resources.

[0275] In another implementation, when the access network device determines that the AIoT service has been completed based on the first execution information of the AIoT service, it does not configure the first resource.

[0276] In another implementation, the access network device determines, based on the first state information of the communication node and the state information of the AIoT device, that the communication node used to perform AIoT services is constantly undergoing cell handover and the communication node is always within the deployment area of ​​the AIoT device and / or the signal quality of the AIoT device is good. In this case, the access network device can instruct the communication node to continue performing AIoT services (an example of the first action) and configure AIoT resources for the communication node.

[0277] In another implementation, when the access network device determines the amount of AIoT service data that can still be executed based on the AIoT device's current power state, based on the AIoT device's status information and the AIoT service execution information, it can configure a first resource for the communication node based on this AIoT service data amount. Alternatively, if the access network determines that the AIoT service cannot continue to be executed based on the AIoT device's current power state, it can determine not to configure the first resource. Optionally, the access network device can instruct the communication node to suspend / terminate the AIoT service (an example of the first action). For example, the access network device can instruct the communication node to suspend / terminate the AIoT service corresponding to an AIoT device with a poor power state.

[0278] Step S403: The access network device sends second information to the communication node, the second information indicating the first resource, and the corresponding communication node receives the first information.

[0279] As a possible solution, the access network device sends third information to the communication node. This third information indicates a first action, which includes suspending or resuming the AIoT service. Exemplarily, in this approach, the third information can be second information. In one possible implementation, the second information indicates both the first action and a first resource. Optionally, the second information carries AIoT operation parameters, which are used to instruct the communication node to suspend or resume the AIoT service process.

[0280] In one implementation, the first resource includes parameters related to AIoT wireless resource configuration. Optionally, the first resource includes all resource parameters (such as time, frequency, chip, duration, transmission round, etc.). Optionally, the first resource may include some resource parameters or resource reuse indications.

[0281] For example, the resource reuse indication is used to indicate an extension of resource usage duration. Optionally, the resource reuse indication carries a time value, which is used to instruct the communication node to add a period of time to the current resource usage duration. In the absence of other resource parameters (such as frequency, chip, duration, transmission round, etc.), other resource configurations can remain unchanged. For example, the access network device (such as gNB) configures the effective resource duration for the communication node (such as UE Reader) to be 10 seconds. After receiving the duration, the communication node can start a resource timer set to 10 seconds. After the communication node reports the first execution information of the AIoT service to the access network device, if the access network device estimates that the current AIoT service cannot be completed within 10 seconds, it can use the resource reuse indication to increase the communication node's resource timer by 5 seconds. In the absence of other resource parameters indicated by the resource reuse indication, other resource parameters can remain unchanged.

[0282] For example, a resource reuse indicator is used to instruct a communication node to restart a resource timer. For instance, if the access network device configures a resource validity period of 10 seconds for the communication node, the communication node can start a resource timer set to 10 seconds after receiving the duration. After the communication node reports the first execution information of the AIoT service to the access network device, if the access network device estimates that the current AIoT service cannot be completed within 10 seconds, it can use a resource reuse indicator (such as a restart indicator) to instruct the communication node to reset the resource timer to 10 seconds.

[0283] For example, the resource reuse indicator may also reset other resource parameters, such as available frequency bands, etc.

[0284] In one implementation, the second message may be sent via an RRC message (such as an RRC Reconfiguration (Handover command)), a Media Access Control (MAC) element, or downlink control information (DCI). This application does not impose any restrictions on the method of sending the first message.

[0285] Step S404: The communication node executes AIoT services based on the second information.

[0286] As an alternative, step S404 is optional. For example, the access network device may omit step S404 after it.

[0287] For example, the second information refers to the first resource, or the second information indicates the first action and the first resource.

[0288] In one implementation, when a communication node is executing an AIoT service, it can extend the current resource usage time based on the first resource indicated by the second information, thereby allowing the AIoT service to continue. Alternatively, when a communication node is executing an AIoT service, it can restart a resource timer based on the first resource indicated by the second information, thereby allowing the AIoT service to continue.

[0289] In one implementation, when a communication node is executing an AIoT service, it can suspend the AIoT service based on the suspension behavior indicated by the second information (an example of the first behavior), and notify the AIoT device to perform the suspension operation. The AIoT service will continue to be executed when the suspension is lifted.

[0290] In one implementation, when a communication node is performing an AIoT service, it can continue to perform the AIoT service based on the continuation behavior indicated by the second information (an example of the first behavior) and the first resource.

[0291] It should be noted that, in one implementation, "when executing AIoT services" as referred to in this application embodiment means after the communication node in step 13 of Figure 3A receives the AIoT service request, or after the communication node in step 16 of Figure 3A executes the AIoT service, or after the AIoT device sends the AIoT service response in step 17 of Figure 3A. In another implementation, "when executing AIoT services" as referred to in this application embodiment means after the communication node in step 23 of Figure 3B receives the AIoT service request and AIoT resources (an example of the first resource), or after the communication node in step 24 of Figure 3B executes the AIoT service, or after the AIoT device sends the AIoT service response in step 25 of Figure 3B. Please refer to Figure 4B, which is a flowchart illustrating another communication method provided in this application embodiment. This method can be implemented based on the architecture shown in Figure 1 or other architectures, and the dependent topology can be any topology shown in Figures 2B-2D or other topologies. This method includes, but is not limited to, the following steps:

[0292] Step S411: The communication node sends first information to the access network device, and the access network device receives the first information accordingly.

[0293] Specifically, the description of step S411 can be found in step S401, and will not be repeated here.

[0294] Step S412: The access network device determines the third information based on the first information.

[0295] As an alternative, step S412 is optional. For example, the access network device may execute step S413 after step S411, or may omit step S412.

[0296] For example, the first information includes at least one of the following: first status information of the communication node, status information of the AIoT device, and first execution information of the AIoT service.

[0297] For example, the first information is used to trigger the access network device to determine the first action, and the third information indicates the first action, which includes the communication node terminating the AIoT service.

[0298] In one implementation, when the access network device determines that the communication node is not suitable for executing the AIoT service based on one or more of the first state information of the communication node, the state information of the AIoT device, and the first execution information of the AIoT service, it can instruct the communication node to terminate the AIoT service.

[0299] In another implementation, the access network device determines, based on the first state information of the communication node, that the communication node suspends / continues the AIoT service when a cell handover is triggered. If it determines, based on the information used to instruct the communication node to suspend / continue the AIoT service when a cell handover is triggered, that the communication node is no longer suitable to perform the AIoT service, it can instruct the communication node to terminate the AIoT service.

[0300] In another implementation, when the access network device determines that the signal quality of the communication node is poor and it is not suitable to perform AIoT services based on the first state information of the communication node, it can instruct the communication node to terminate the AIoT services.

[0301] In another implementation, if the access network device determines that the signal quality of the AIoT device is weak based on the status information of the AIoT device, it can determine that the communication node is far away from the AIoT device, and then instruct the communication node to terminate the AIoT service.

[0302] In another implementation, when the access network device determines that the AIoT device's battery level is low based on the AIoT device's status information, it can determine that the AIoT device's current battery level is insufficient to continue performing AIoT services, and can then instruct the communication node to terminate the AIoT services corresponding to that AIoT device.

[0303] In another implementation, when the access network device determines that the AIoT device has completed the AIoT service based on the first execution information of the AIoT service, it can instruct the communication node to terminate the AIoT service corresponding to the AIoT device.

[0304] Step S413: The access network device sends third information to the communication node. The third information indicates the first action. Correspondingly, the communication node receives the third information.

[0305] Specifically, the third information indicates the first action, which includes the communication node terminating the AIoT service. Optionally, the third information carries AIoT operation parameters, which are used to instruct the communication node to terminate the AIoT service process.

[0306] In one implementation, the third information may be sent via RRC messages (such as RRC Reconfiguration (Handover command)), MAC control elements (MAC CE), or downlink control information (DCI). This application does not impose any restrictions on the method of sending the third message.

[0307] Step S414: The communication node executes AIoT services based on third-party information.

[0308] As an alternative, step S414 is optional. For example, the access network device may omit step S404 after step S414.

[0309] For example, the third information indicates the first action. In one implementation, the communication node can terminate the AIoT service based on the termination action indicated by the third information. Optionally, the methods of terminating the AIoT service include, but are not limited to: the communication node stopping sending R2D messages, the communication node sending a signaling message to the AIoT device to terminate the AIoT service, etc. For example, the messages sent by the communication node to the AIoT device can be collectively referred to as R2D messages.

[0310] Please refer to Figure 5, which is a flowchart illustrating a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application. This method can be implemented based on the architecture shown in Figure 1 or other architectures, and the dependent topology can be any of the topologies shown in Figures 2B-2D or other topologies. The method includes, but is not limited to, the following steps:

[0311] Step S501: The communication node sends first information to the access network device, and correspondingly, the access network device receives the first information.

[0312] Specifically, the first information includes at least one of the following: the first status information of the communication node, the status information of the AIoT device, and the first execution information of the AIoT service.

[0313] In other words, S501 can also be described as the communication node sending at least one of the following to the access network device: the first status information of the communication node, the status information of the AIoT device, and the first execution information of the AIoT service.

[0314] In one implementation, the first information is used to trigger whether the access network device configures the first resource. Exemplarily, the first information is used to trigger the access network device to configure or not configure the first resource. Exemplarily, the first state information of the communication node includes one or more of the following: information for instructing the communication node to perform AIoT services and whether the communication node performs cell handover; information for instructing the communication node to perform AIoT services and when a radio link failure occurs; information for instructing the communication node to continue, suspend, or terminate the AIoT service when triggering cell handover. A detailed description of the "first state information of the communication node" can be found in the relevant content of step S401, and will not be repeated here.

[0315] As an example, when a communication node undergoes cell handover, its location may change. This change in location could cause the communication node to leave the target device's area (i.e., the target area), potentially resulting in the communication node not receiving responses from the AIoT device. Therefore, the information used to instruct the communication node to perform cell handover carries an ongoing AIoT indicator. This indicator carries information such as service identifiers (e.g., Task ID) and UE ID, and is used to inform the access network equipment that the communication node is performing AIoT services.

[0316] For example, the status information of the AIoT device includes one or more of the following: information indicating the signal quality of the AIoT device; and information indicating the battery status of the AIoT device. A detailed description of the "status information of the AIoT device" can be found in the relevant content of step S401, and will not be repeated here.

[0317] For example, the first execution information of an AIoT service includes one or more of the following: information indicating the time required for unexecuted AIoT services within the AIoT service. Optionally, the information indicating the time required for unexecuted AIoT services within the AIoT service includes the remaining time of the service.

[0318] It should be noted that for NAS / UP-based architectures, access network devices are unaware of AIoT upper-layer information. The configuration of AIoT resources (an example of a first type of resource) by the access network device for communication nodes relies on the communication nodes' active requests. Therefore, the access network device may not have the ability to estimate resource availability based on the AIoT upper-layer information provided by the UE. Consequently, the information sent by the communication node to the access network device may not include information related to the execution status of AIoT services, such as information indicating whether an AIoT device is currently executing; information indicating whether an AIoT device has completed execution; information indicating the amount of AIoT service data cached in the communication node for transmission; information indicating the amount of data to be received in the AIoT service; information indicating the number of devices awaiting a response in the AIoT service, etc.

[0319] Step S502: The access network device triggers whether to configure the first resource based on the first information.

[0320] As an optional solution, step S502 is optional. For example, the access network device may skip step S502 after step S501 and proceed to step S503 instead.

[0321] Specifically, when the access network device triggers an AIoT resource (re)configuration decision based on at least one of the first state information of the communication node, the state information of the AIoT device, and the first execution information of the AIoT service, step S503 can be executed.

[0322] Step S503: The access network device sends the fifth information to the core network device, and correspondingly, the core network device receives the fifth information.

[0323] Specifically, the access network device can send the sensed fifth information to the core network device, thereby triggering the core network device to determine the subsequent behavior of the UE (an example of the second behavior). Exemplarily, the fifth information includes at least one of the second execution information of the AIoT service and the second status information of the communication node.

[0324] For example, the second execution information of the AIoT service includes one or more of the following: the identifier of the AIoT service (such as Task ID or Transaction ID); the identifier of the communication node (such as UE ID or UE Reader ID); and information on the amount of AIoT service data to be transmitted cached in the access network device. Optionally, the access network device may cache the data related to the AIoT service received from the AIoT device locally, aggregate it, and then report it to the core network device.

[0325] For example, the second state information of the communication node includes one or more of the following: base station information indicating the service provided to the communication node; cell identifier of the communication node; location of the communication node; moving speed of the communication node; moving direction of the communication node; information indicating that the communication node is performing AIoT services and that the communication node has experienced a wireless link failure; information indicating that the communication node is performing AIoT services and that the communication node is performing cell handover; and information indicating that the communication node is performing AIoT services and that the communication node has entered the RRC idle state.

[0326] As an example, the base station information used to indicate services provided to communication nodes includes, but is not limited to: base station identification information (such as base station name, base station number, etc.), base station location information (such as latitude and longitude coordinates, altitude information, etc.), equipment information, base station operating status, base station performance indicators, etc.

[0327] As another example, the cell identifier of a communication node includes, but is not limited to: cell global identifier and physical cell identifier (CGI), physical cell identifier (PCI), etc.

[0328] As another example, information used to indicate a wireless link failure in a communication node includes, but is not limited to: reduced signal strength, increased bit error rate, loss of synchronization signal, etc.

[0329] As another example, information used to indicate that a communication node is undergoing a cell handover includes, but is not limited to: the current serving cell signal weakening, the signal quality and strength of a neighboring cell being higher than the signal quality of the current serving cell, handover commands, handover preparation and confirmation messages, etc.

[0330] As another example, information used to indicate that a communication node has entered the RRC idle state includes, but is not limited to: RRC status records showing that the RRC status has changed from the connected state marker to the idle state marker, signaling interaction has decreased, data transmission has stopped, etc.

[0331] Step S504: The core network equipment determines the sixth information based on the fifth information.

[0332] As an optional solution, step S504 is optional. For example, the access network device may skip step S504 after step S503 and instead execute step S505.

[0333] Specifically, the core network device may determine the sixth information based on at least one of the second execution information of the AIoT service and the second status information of the communication node (the fifth information), combined with the AIoT service type. The sixth information is used to indicate the subsequent behavior of the communication node (i.e., the second behavior). For example, the second behavior includes the communication node suspending, continuing, or terminating the AIoT service.

[0334] As an example, if the core network device determines that the communication node has a large range of movement based on the second state information of the communication node, such as having removed the area where the target device is located (i.e., the target area), then the core network device can determine that the current communication node is not suitable as a UE Reader based on the UE location reported by the access network device and the area where the target device is located. In this case, the core network device can instruct the communication node to terminate the AIoT service (an example of the second action), and thus determine that the second action includes terminating the AIoT service process between the communication node and the AIoT device.

[0335] As another example, when the second execution information of the AIoT service determines that the current scenario is a goods tracking scenario, if the communication node is a terminal device on the truck / container driver, and the terminal device and the AIoT device on the truck / container are always adjacent, even if the second state information of the communication node determines that the communication node is constantly switching, it can be determined that there is no need to change the communication node, and the communication node can be instructed to continue executing the AIoT service (an example of the second behavior). Alternatively, when the second state information of the communication node determines that the communication node has switched, the communication node can be instructed to suspend the AIoT service (an example of the second behavior).

[0336] Step S505: The core network device sends the sixth information to the access network device. The sixth information indicates the second action. Correspondingly, the access network device receives the sixth information.

[0337] For example, the second action includes suspending, continuing, or terminating the AIoT service by the communication node, and the fourth information can instruct the communication node to suspend, continue, or terminate the AIoT service.

[0338] In one implementation, the sixth piece of information also carries a UE ID, a Task ID, and so on. For example, the UE ID is used to indicate the communication node performing the AIoT service, and the Task ID is used to indicate the AIoT service being performed.

[0339] Step S506: The access network device generates the third information based on the sixth information.

[0340] As an optional solution, step S506 is optional. For example, the access network device may skip step S506 after step S505 and instead execute step S507.

[0341] For example, the third information instructs the first action, which includes suspending, continuing, or terminating the AIoT service by the communication node. Thus, the third information can instruct the communication node to suspend, continue, or terminate the AIoT service.

[0342] Specifically, the access network device receives a UE behavior indication (i.e., the second behavior indicated by the sixth information) from the core network device. In one implementation, if the sixth information received by the access network device indicates that the communication node terminates the AIoT service, the third information generated by the access network device is used to indicate that the communication node terminates the AIoT service. In another implementation, if the sixth information received by the access network device indicates that the communication node continues the AIoT service, the third information generated by the access network device is used to indicate that the communication node continues or suspends the AIoT service. In yet another implementation, whether to continue or suspend the AIoT service is based on the judgment of the access network device. If the AIoT resources used by the communication node in the original cell are not used in the new cell to be switched over, the access network device can instruct the communication node to continue the AIoT process; if the AIoT resources used by the communication node in the original cell are not used in the new cell to be switched over, the access network device can instruct the communication node to suspend the AIoT process, and then execute the AIoT service after the suspension is lifted.

[0343] Step S507: The access network device sends third information to the communication node. The third information indicates the first action. Correspondingly, the communication node receives the third information.

[0344] For example, the first action includes the communication node suspending, continuing, or terminating the AIoT service. Optionally, the continue action is used to instruct the communication node to continue the AIoT service using the previously allocated resources. In one implementation, the suspend action is used to instruct the communication node to suspend the AIoT service and save the task context, or the communication AIoT device stops responding. In one implementation, the terminate action is used to instruct the communication node to terminate the AIoT service, or to report cached AIoT service data to the access network device.

[0345] In one implementation, the access network device sends third information (i.e., an RRC message) to the communication node based on the RRC connection. For example, the access network device issues a handover command (RRC Reconfiguration) to the communication node. Optionally, the RRC message carries an AIoT operation, Task ID / Transaction ID, and UE Reader ID / UE ID. Optionally, the AIoT operation in the RRC message indicates the first action. Optionally, the RRC message also instructs the communication node to send an AIoT resource request to the access network device again after receiving the third information.

[0346] In one implementation, the third information can be carried in the MAC CE. The access network device sends the MAC CE to the communication node. The MAC CE is an element used at the MAC layer to transmit control information. For example, please refer to Figure 6, which is a schematic diagram of a MAC CE format provided in an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 6, the MAC CE includes one or more MAC subheaders and a MAC CE content portion. For example, the MAC subheader is used to identify the type, length, and other information of the MAC CE. The MAC subheader includes the following: a Reserved (R) field, a Logical Channel Identifier (LCID) field, and a Length (L) field. Optionally, the LCID in the MAC subheader can be set to a Logical Channel Group Identifier (LCGD), such as the AIoT-LCG ID, or an existing Reserved ID, used by the access network device to instruct the communication node to initiate an AIoT resource (re)configuration request. For example, the MAC CE content portion includes the following fields: AIoT operation, Task ID / Transaction ID, and UE Reader ID / UE ID. Optionally, the AIoT operation in the MAC CE content section is used to indicate the first action.

[0347] Step S508: The communication node generates fourth information based on the third information.

[0348] As an optional solution, step S508 is optional. For example, the access network device may skip step S508 after step S507 and instead execute step S509.

[0349] Specifically, the communication node receives third information from the access network device and generates fourth information based on the third information. The fourth information includes information for instructing the communication node on the AIoT resources required to perform AIoT services. For example, the fourth information carries buffer parameters or resource parameters. The buffer parameters are used to indicate the amount of data to be transmitted in the AIoT service, and the resource parameters are used to indicate the AIoT resources that need to be requested. The resource parameters include one or more of time, the amount of data to be received, and the number of responses.

[0350] Step S509: The communication node sends fourth information to the access network device. The fourth information carries buffer parameters or resource parameters. Correspondingly, the access network device receives the fourth information.

[0351] The fourth piece of information includes information on the AIoT resources required for the communication node to perform AIoT services.

[0352] As one possible approach, the fourth piece of information can be carried in the Buffer Status Report (BSR) MAC CE, which the communication node sends to the access network device. For example, please refer to Figure 7A, which is a schematic diagram of a BSR MAC CE format provided in an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 7A, taking a short BSR as an example, the BSR MAC CE includes one or more MAC subheaders and a MAC CE content portion. For example, the MAC subheader is used to identify the type, length, and other information of the MAC CE, and includes the following: an R field, an LCID field, and an L field. In one implementation, the LCID in the MAC subheader can be set to a Logical Channel Group ID (LCGD), such as an AIoT-LCG ID, or an existing reserved ID. For example, the MAC CE content portion includes the following field: buffer size. In another implementation, when buffer size = 00000 and its corresponding field (index) is 0, BSR MAC CE indicates that there is no data to be sent for the AIoT service corresponding to the AIoT-LCG ID, meaning the communication node has completed the AIoT service. In yet another implementation, completion of the AIoT service can be indicated by the communication node receiving all device responses / the task timer expiring and no longer waiting for unresponding devices. In yet another implementation, when the field (index) corresponding to buffer size is between 1 and 31, the buffer size in BSR MAC CE indicates the estimated amount of AIoT data to be transmitted by the communication node. It should be noted that "1-31" is an exemplary expression, and its value can be determined according to actual circumstances; this application does not impose any restrictions on its specific value.

[0353] As another possible solution, the fourth piece of information can be carried in a time-required report (TRR) MAC CE, which the communication node sends to the access network device. For example, the format of the TRR MAC CE is similar to that of the BSR MAC CE, the difference being that the buffer size of the TRR MAC CE is used to indicate the remaining duration of the AIoT service corresponding to the AIoT-LCG ID, that is, to indicate how much longer the AIoT service will take to complete.

[0354] As another possible solution, the fourth information can be carried in the MAC CE, which is sent by the communication node to the access device. For example, please refer to Figure 7B, which is a schematic diagram of another MAC CE format provided in an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 7B, the MAC CE includes one or more MAC subheaders and a MAC CE content portion. For example, the MAC subheader includes the following: an R field and an LCID field. In one implementation, the LCID in the MAC subheader can be set to a logical channel group identifier (LCGD), such as the AIoT-LCG ID, or an existing reserved ID. For example, the MAC CE content portion includes the following fields: Task ID / Transaction ID, UE Reader ID / UE ID, and resource parameter. In one implementation, the UE Reader ID / UE ID is used to indicate the communication node performing the AIoT service, and the Task ID / Transaction ID is used to identify the AIoT service for which AIoT resources need to be configured. As shown in Figure 7B, resource parameters include, but are not limited to, time, estimated data volume, estimated device number, etc. It should be noted that resource parameters can indicate more or less content depending on actual needs, and this application does not impose any limitations on this. In another implementation, the reserved bit R in the MAC subheader is used to indicate the resource parameters included in the MAC CE. For example, the first R in the MAC subheader is used to indicate whether the MAC CE includes time. In one implementation, R set to 0 indicates that the time resource parameter (e.g., the first parameter) has a valid value, and R set to 1 indicates that the time resource parameter (e.g., the first parameter) is empty. For example, the second R in the MAC subheader is used to indicate whether the MAC CE contains an estimated data volume. In one implementation, R is set to 0 to indicate that the estimated data volume resource parameter (such as the second parameter) has a valid value, and R is set to 1 to indicate that the estimated data volume resource parameter (such as the second parameter) is empty.For example, the third R in the MAC subheader is used to indicate whether the MAC CE contains the estimated device number. In one implementation, R is set to 0 to indicate that the estimated device number (e.g., the third parameter) has a valid value, and R is set to 1 to indicate that the estimated device number (e.g., the third parameter) is empty.

[0355] In one implementation, the fourth information can be carried in an RRC message. The communication node sends an RRC message to the access device, for example, by carrying the fourth information via RRC Reconfiguration Complete. For example, the RRC message includes the following information: Task ID / Transaction ID, UE reader ID / UE ID, and resource parameters, such as estimated resource usage time, frequency, estimated amount of data to be received, and estimated number of device responses. Optionally, if the communication node has aggregation capabilities, the RRC message can also include a NAS PDU, which contains AIoT data cached by the UE.

[0356] Step S510: The access network device determines the second information based on the fourth information.

[0357] As an optional solution, step S510 is optional. After step S509, the access network device may not execute step S510, but may execute step S511.

[0358] For example, the fourth information is used to trigger the access network device to configure the first resource to the communication node.

[0359] Specifically, the access network device, in response to the fourth information, configures AIoT resources for the communication node, and then determines the second information, which indicates the first resource. In one implementation, the first resource includes parameters related to AIoT wireless resource configuration. Optionally, the first resource includes all resource parameters (such as time, frequency, chip, duration, transmission round, etc.). In another implementation, the first resource may include some resource parameters or resource reuse indications.

[0360] For a detailed description of the "first resource", please refer to the relevant description in step S403 shown in Figure 4A above, which will not be repeated here.

[0361] Step S511: The access network device sends second information to the communication node, the second information indicating the first resource, and the corresponding communication node receives the second information.

[0362] In one implementation, the second information may be sent via RRC messages (such as RRC Reconfiguration (Handover command)), MAC control element (MAC CE), or downlink control information (DCI). This application does not impose any restrictions on the method of sending the second information.

[0363] Step S512: The communication node executes AIoT services based on the second information.

[0364] As an optional solution, step S511 is optional, and the access network device may not execute step S511 after step S510.

[0365] For example, a detailed description of step S511 can be found in the description of step S404, and will not be repeated here.

[0366] It should be noted that steps S508, S509, S510, and S511 shown in Figure 5 are optional steps. In one implementation, if the first action indicated by the third information in step S507 is to instruct the communication node to terminate the AIoT service, steps S508 to S511 may not be executed. For example, the communication node may respond to the third information to terminate the AIoT service, such as by sending a termination instruction to the AIoT device, or by not replying after receiving a response from the AIoT service. In another implementation, if the buffer parameter in the fourth information indicates that the amount of data to be transmitted in the AIoT service is 0, indicating that the communication node has completed the AIoT service, steps S510 and S511 may not be executed, and the access network device does not need to configure AIoT resources (an example of the first resource) for the communication node.

[0367] In this embodiment, the communication node, as the device closest to the AIoT device in the communication system, is responsible for paging devices, handling access conflicts, issuing service requests, and receiving service responses. Furthermore, the communication node can obtain information related to the processing status of AIoT services and information related to the AIoT device that the network side cannot directly obtain. Therefore, the communication node (e.g., UE or UE Reader) can send various types of event reports to the access network device (e.g., gNB) to trigger the access network device to (re)configure AIoT resources. For example, based on the AIoT resource configuration method shown in Figure 3A (the communication node requests AIoT resources from the access network device), when the event report sent by the communication node triggers the access network device to make an AIoT resource (re)configuration decision, the access network device can send the perceived information related to the AIoT service and / or information related to the communication node to the core network device, which then determines the subsequent behavior of the communication node (an example of the second behavior). For example, based on the AIoT resource configuration method shown in Figure 3B (the access network device can directly configure AIoT resources for the communication node (an example of the first resource)), this event report can trigger the access network device to perform (re)configuration of AIoT resources and / or determine the behavior of the communication node (an example of the first behavior). The communication node reports information related to the processing status of AIoT services and information related to AIoT devices, enabling the access network device to determine whether to configure the first resource based on the above information. This avoids resource waste caused by blindly deciding to configure resources without a basis for judgment, or avoids problems such as AIoT service failure / high AIoT service latency caused by deciding not to configure resources. Furthermore, in the case of deciding to configure resources, the access network device can also reasonably and accurately (re)configure AIoT resources based on the above information combined with at least one of the following: the status of the communication node, the execution status of the AIoT service, and the status of the AIoT device. Thus, the communication node can execute AIoT services based on the (re)configured AIoT resources, avoiding AIoT service failure, reducing service latency, and improving user experience.

[0368] It should be understood that the steps in the above-described method embodiments provided in this application can be implemented by integrated logic circuits in the processor hardware or by instructions in software form. The method steps disclosed in the embodiments of this application can be directly implemented by a hardware processor, or implemented by a combination of hardware and software modules in the processor.

[0369] This application divides the communication device into functional modules according to the above method embodiments. For example, each function can be divided into its own functional modules, or two or more functions can be integrated into one processing module. The integrated modules can be implemented in hardware or as software functional modules. It should be noted that the module division in this application is illustrative and only represents one logical functional division; other division methods may be used in actual implementation. The communication device of the embodiments of this application will be described in detail below with reference to Figures 8 and 9.

[0370] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of a communication device provided in an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 8, the communication device includes a processing module 801 and a transceiver module 802. The transceiver module 802 can implement corresponding communication functions, and may also be referred to as an interface, communication interface, or communication module. The processing module 801 is used for data processing, such as generating information. The transceiver module 802 may have its own control logic, or it may perform corresponding operations under the control of the processing module 801. In some embodiments of this application, the communication device can be used to perform the actions performed by the sending end in the above method embodiments. For example, the sending end may be the device itself or a chip or functional module configurable in the device. The transceiver module 802 is used to perform operations related to information transmission and reception in the above method embodiments, and the processing module 801 is used to perform operations related to data processing in the above method embodiments. The processing module 801 can perform corresponding operations by calling a computer program or by performing corresponding operations through corresponding hardware circuits. The transceiver module 802 can perform transmission and reception operations independently, or it can perform corresponding transmission and reception operations under the control of the processing module 801.

[0371] For example, the communication device shown in Figure 8 can be a communication node or a device within a communication node. The processing module 801 and the transceiver module 802 in this communication device can respectively perform the following operations:

[0372] The processing module 801 can be used to determine (or acquire) the first information.

[0373] The transceiver module 802 is used to send first information to the access network device. The first information includes at least one of the following: first status information of the communication node, status information of the environmental Internet of Things (AIoT) device, and first execution information of the AIoT service. The first information is used to configure the first resource, and the first resource is used for communication between the communication node and the AIoT device. The transceiver module 802 is also used to receive second information from the access network device, wherein the second information indicates the first resource.

[0374] In one possible implementation, the first information is used to configure the first resource, or it can be understood as the first information being used to determine whether to configure the first resource. For example, whether to configure the first resource is determined based on the content of the first information.

[0375] In another possible implementation, the first state information of the communication node includes one or more of the following: information for instructing the communication node to perform AIoT services and for determining whether the communication node should perform cell handover; information for instructing the communication node to perform AIoT services and for the occurrence of radio link failure; and information for instructing the communication node to continue, suspend, or terminate the AIoT service when cell handover is triggered.

[0376] In another possible implementation, the status information of the AIoT device includes one or more of the following: information indicating the signal quality of the AIoT device; information indicating the power status of the AIoT device.

[0377] In another possible implementation, the first execution information of the AIoT service includes one or more of the following: information indicating whether the AIoT device is executing an AIoT service; information indicating whether the AIoT device has completed executing an AIoT service; information indicating the time required for unexecuted AIoT services; information indicating the amount of AIoT service data to be transmitted cached in the communication node; information indicating the amount of AIoT service data to be received; and information indicating the number of devices waiting to respond in the execution of the AIoT service.

[0378] In one possible implementation, the transceiver module 802 in the communication device can perform the following operations respectively:

[0379] The transceiver module 802 is also used to receive third information from the access network device. The third information indicates the first action, which includes suspending, continuing, or terminating the AIoT service by the communication node. The third information is determined based on the first information.

[0380] In yet another possible implementation, the processing module 801 and the transceiver module 802 in the communication device can respectively perform the following operations:

[0381] The processing module 801 can be used to determine (or acquire) the fourth piece of information.

[0382] The transceiver module 802 is also used to send a fourth message to the access network device, wherein the fourth message includes information for instructing the communication node on the AIoT resources required to perform AIoT services.

[0383] In this approach, the fourth information carries either buffer parameters or resource parameters. The buffer parameters indicate the amount of AIoT service data to be transmitted or the time required for unexecuted AIoT services within the AIoT service. The resource parameters include one or more of the first, second, and third parameters. The first parameter indicates the time required for unexecuted AIoT services within the AIoT service, the second parameter indicates the amount of AIoT service data to be received, and the third parameter indicates the number of devices that have responded during the execution of the AIoT service.

[0384] In another possible implementation, the first information is also used to indicate the configuration method of the first resource, which includes extending the usage time of the first resource or reconfiguring the first resource.

[0385] In another possible implementation, the first information is carried in a Radio Resource Control (RRC) message, a Media Access Control (MAC) control element (CE), or a Downlink Control Information (DCI).

[0386] Reusing Figure 8, in some other embodiments of this application, for example, the communication device shown in Figure 8 can be an access network device or a component of an access network device, and the processing module 801 and transceiver module 802 in the communication device can respectively perform the following operations:

[0387] The transceiver module 802 is used to receive first information from the communication node. The first information includes at least one of the following: first status information of the communication node, status information of the AIoT device, and first execution information of the AIoT service. The first information is used to configure a first resource, and the first resource is used for communication between the communication node and the AIoT device. The transceiver module 802 is also used to send second information to the communication node, wherein the second information indicates the first resource.

[0388] The processing module 801 can be used to determine (or acquire) the second information.

[0389] In one possible implementation, the first information is used to configure the first resource, or it can be understood as the first information being used to determine whether to configure the first resource. For example, whether to configure the first resource is determined based on the content of the first information.

[0390] In yet another possible implementation, the first state information of the communication node includes one or more of the following:

[0391] Information used to instruct communication nodes to perform AIoT services and to determine whether communication nodes should perform cell handover;

[0392] Used to instruct communication nodes to perform AIoT services and to provide information on wireless link failures;

[0393] Information used to indicate whether a communication node should continue, suspend, or terminate AIoT services when a cell handover is triggered.

[0394] In another possible implementation, the status information of the AIoT device includes one or more of the following: information reflecting the signal quality of the AIoT device; and information reflecting the power status of the AIoT device.

[0395] In another possible implementation, the first execution information of the AIoT service includes one or more of the following: information indicating whether the AIoT device is executing an AIoT service; information indicating whether the AIoT device has completed executing an AIoT service; information indicating the time required for unexecuted AIoT services; information indicating the amount of AIoT service data to be transmitted cached in the communication node; information indicating the amount of AIoT service data to be received by the communication node; and information indicating the number of devices awaiting a response in the execution of the AIoT service by the communication node.

[0396] In one possible implementation, the processing module 801 and the transceiver module 802 in the communication device can perform the following operations:

[0397] The processing module 801 can be used to determine (or acquire) third information.

[0398] The transceiver module 802 is also used to send third information to the communication node. The third information indicates the first action, which includes the communication node suspending, continuing, or terminating the AIoT service. The third information is determined based on the first information.

[0399] In yet another possible implementation, the processing module 801 and the transceiver module 802 in the communication device can respectively perform the following operations:

[0400] The processing module 801 can be used to determine (or acquire) the fifth piece of information.

[0401] The transceiver module 802 is also used to send fifth information to the core network equipment. The fifth information includes at least one of the second execution information of the AIoT service and the second status information of the communication node. The fifth information is used to determine the second action, which includes the communication node suspending, continuing or terminating the AIoT service.

[0402] The transceiver module 802 is also used to receive a sixth message from the core network device, wherein the sixth message indicates the second line and the first line is determined based on the second line.

[0403] In this implementation, the transceiver module 802 in the communication device can perform the following operations respectively:

[0404] The transceiver module 802 is also used to receive fourth information from the communication node, wherein the fourth information includes information for instructing the communication node on the AIoT resources required to perform AIoT services.

[0405] In this implementation, the fourth information carries buffer parameters or resource parameters; the buffer parameters are used to indicate the amount of AIoT service data to be transmitted or the time required for unexecuted AIoT services in the AIoT service; the resource parameters include one or more of the first parameter, the second parameter, and the third parameter, the first parameter is used to indicate the time required for unexecuted AIoT services in the AIoT service, the second parameter is used to indicate the amount of AIoT service data to be received, and the third parameter is used to indicate the number of devices that have responded in the execution of AIoT services.

[0406] In another possible implementation, the second execution information of the AIoT service includes one or more of the following: the identifier of the AIoT service; the identifier of the communication node; and information on the amount of AIoT service data to be transmitted that is cached in the access network device.

[0407] In another possible implementation, the second state information of the communication node includes one or more of the following: base station information indicating the service provider for the communication node; cell identifier of the communication node; location of the communication node and moving speed of the communication node; moving direction of the communication node; information indicating that the communication node is performing AIoT services and that a wireless link failure has occurred; information indicating that the communication node is performing AIoT services and performing cell handover; and information indicating that the communication node is performing AIoT services and entering the RRC idle state.

[0408] In another possible implementation, the first information is also used to indicate the configuration method of the first resource, which includes extending the usage time of the first resource or reconfiguring the first resource.

[0409] In another possible implementation, the first information is carried in a Radio Resource Control (RRC) message, a Media Access Control (MAC) control element (CE), or a Downlink Control Information (DCI).

[0410] Reusing Figure 8, in some other embodiments of this application, for example, the communication device shown in Figure 8 can be a core network device or a component of a core network device, and the processing module 801 and transceiver module 802 in the communication device can respectively perform the following operations:

[0411] The transceiver module 802 is used to receive fifth information from the access network device. The fifth information is used to determine the second action. The second action includes the communication node suspending, continuing, or terminating the AIoT service. The fifth information includes at least one of the second execution information of the AIoT service and the second status information of the communication node.

[0412] This processing module 801 can be used to determine (or acquire) the sixth piece of information;

[0413] The transceiver module 802 is also used to send a sixth message to the access network device, wherein the sixth message indicates the second line, and the second line packet suspends, continues or terminates the AIoT service of the communication node.

[0414] In this approach, the second execution information for the AIoT service includes one or more of the following: the identifier of the AIoT service; the identifier of the communication node; and information on the amount of AIoT service data to be transmitted that is cached in the access network device.

[0415] In this mode, the second state information of the communication node includes one or more of the following: information indicating the base station providing services to the communication node; cell identifier of the communication node; location of the communication node; moving speed of the communication node; moving direction of the communication node; information indicating that the communication node is performing AIoT services and that a wireless link failure has occurred; information indicating that the communication node is performing AIoT services and that a cell handover has occurred; and information indicating that the communication node is performing AIoT services and that it is entering the RRC idle state.

[0416] The specific descriptions of the transceiver module and processing module shown in the above embodiments are merely examples. For the specific functions or execution steps of the transceiver module and processing module, please refer to the above method embodiments, which will not be described in detail here.

[0417] The communication device according to the embodiments of this application has been described above. The following describes possible product forms of the communication device. Any product possessing the functions of the communication device described in FIG8 above falls within the protection scope of the embodiments of this application.

[0418] The following description is merely an example and does not limit the product form of the communication device in the embodiments of this application to this.

[0419] In one possible implementation, in the communication device shown in FIG8, the processing module 801 can be one or more processors, and the transceiver module 802 can be a transceiver, or the transceiver module 802 can also be a transmitting module and a receiving module. The transmitting module can be a transmitter, and the receiving module can be a receiver. The transmitting module and the receiving module are integrated into one device, such as a transceiver. In the embodiments of this application, the processor and the transceiver can be coupled, etc., and the connection method of the processor and the transceiver is not limited in the embodiments of this application. In the process of executing the above method, the process of sending information in the above method can be the process of the processor outputting the above information. When outputting the above information, the processor outputs the above information to the transceiver so that the transceiver can transmit it. After the above information is output by the processor, it may need to undergo other processing before reaching the transceiver. Similarly, the process of receiving information in the above method can be the process of the processor receiving the input above information. When the processor receives the input information, the transceiver receives the above information and inputs it into the processor. In addition, after the transceiver receives the above information, the above information may need to undergo other processing before being input into the processor.

[0420] As shown in Figure 9, the communication device 90 includes one or more processors 920 and transceivers 910. Exemplarily, the transceiver 910 executes the functions or steps implemented by the transceiver module 802 shown in Figure 8, and the processor 920 executes the functions or steps implemented by the processing module 801 shown in Figure 8. The transceiver 910 may have its own processing logic or may execute related operations under the control of the processor 920. Optionally, the communication device 90 may also include a memory 930, which can store computer programs. The processor 920 performs operations by calling the computer programs in the memory 930, such as generating a first registration request, generating a first inventory response, etc. Specific descriptions of the processor 920 and transceiver 910 can be found in Figure 8 or the method embodiments shown above, and will not be detailed here. Descriptions of related steps and information in the above embodiments can be found in the descriptions in the above method embodiments, and will not be detailed here. In various implementations of the communication device shown in Figure 9, the transceiver may include a receiver for performing a receiving function (or operation) and a transmitter for performing a transmitting function (or operation). The transceiver is also used to communicate with other devices / appliances via a transmission medium.

[0421] This application also provides a chip system, which includes at least one processor for implementing the functions involved in the methods executed by the communication node, access network device, or core network device in any of the above embodiments.

[0422] In one possible design, the chip system further includes a memory for storing program instructions and data, which may be located within or outside the processor.

[0423] The chip system can consist of chips or include chips and other discrete components.

[0424] Optionally, the chip system may contain one or more processors. These processors can be implemented in hardware or software. When implemented in hardware, the processor can be a logic circuit, an integrated circuit, etc. When implemented in software, the processor can be a general-purpose processor, implemented by reading software code stored in memory.

[0425] Optionally, the chip system may contain one or more memories. The memory may be integrated with the processor or disposed separately from it; this application embodiment does not limit this. For example, the memory may be a non-transient processor, such as a read-only memory (ROM), which may be integrated with the processor on the same chip or disposed separately on different chips. This application embodiment does not specifically limit the type of memory or the arrangement of the memory and processor.

[0426] For example, the chip system may be a field programmable gate array (FPGA), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a system on chip (SoC), a central processor unit (CPU), a network processor (NP), a digital signal processor (DSP), a micro controller unit (MCU), a programmable logic device (PLD), or other integrated chips.

[0427] This application also provides a computer program product, which includes a computer program (also referred to as code or instructions) that, when run, causes a computer to execute the method performed by the communication node, access network device, or core network device in any of the above embodiments.

[0428] This application also provides a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program (also referred to as code or instructions). When the computer program is run, it causes a computer to perform the method executed by the communication node, access network device, or core network device in any of the above embodiments.

[0429] The various embodiments of this application can be combined arbitrarily to achieve different technical effects.

[0430] In the above embodiments, implementation can be achieved, in whole or in part, through software, hardware, firmware, or any combination thereof. When implemented in software, it can be implemented, in whole or in part, as a computer program product. The computer program product includes one or more computer instructions. When the computer program instructions are loaded and executed on a computer, all or part of the processes or functions described in this application are generated. The computer can be a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, a computer network, or other programmable device. The computer instructions can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium or transmitted from one computer-readable storage medium to another. For example, the computer instructions can be transmitted from one website, computer, server, or data center to another website, computer, server, or data center via wired (e.g., coaxial cable, fiber optic, digital subscriber line) or wireless (e.g., infrared, wireless, microwave, etc.) means. The computer-readable storage medium can be any available medium accessible to a computer or a data storage device such as a server or data center that integrates one or more available media. The available medium can be a magnetic medium (e.g., floppy disk, hard disk, magnetic tape), an optical medium (e.g., DVD), or a semiconductor medium (e.g., solid-state disk).

[0431] Those skilled in the art will understand that all or part of the processes in the methods of the above embodiments can be implemented by a computer program instructing related hardware. This program can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium, and when executed, it can include the processes described in the above method embodiments. The aforementioned storage medium includes various media capable of storing program code, such as ROM or random access memory (RAM), magnetic disks, or optical disks.

[0432] In summary, the above description is merely an embodiment of the technical solution of this application and is not intended to limit the scope of protection of this application. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made based on the disclosure of this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application.

Claims

1. A communication method, characterized in that, Applied to communication nodes, the method includes: Send first information to the access network device. The first information is used to configure first resources. The first resources are used for communication between the communication node and the environmental Internet of Things (AIoT) device. The first information includes at least one of the first status information of the communication node, the status information of the AIoT device, and the first execution information of the AIoT service. Receive second information from the access network device, wherein the second information indicates the first resource.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first state information of the communication node includes one or more of the following: Information used to instruct the communication node to execute the AIoT service and to determine whether the communication node should perform cell handover; Used to instruct the communication node to execute the AIoT service, and to provide information on wireless link failures; Information used to indicate whether the communication node should continue, suspend, or terminate the AIoT service when a cell handover is triggered.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The status information of the AIoT device includes one or more of the following: Information used to indicate the signal quality of the AIoT device; Information used to indicate the power status of the AIoT device.

4. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The first execution information of the AIoT service includes one or more of the following: Information used to indicate whether the AIoT device is performing the AIoT service; Information used to indicate whether the AIoT device has completed the AIoT service; Information used to indicate the time required for unexecuted AIoT services within the AIoT service; Information used to indicate the amount of AIoT service data to be transmitted that is cached in the communication node; Information used to indicate the amount of AIoT service data to be received; This information is used to indicate the number of devices awaiting a response in the execution of the AIoT service.

5. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The method further includes: The third information received from the access network device indicates a first action, which includes suspending, continuing, or terminating the AIoT service by the communication node. The third information is determined based on the first information.

6. The method according to claim 5, characterized in that, The method further includes: Send a fourth message to the access network device, wherein the fourth message includes information on AIoT resources required by the communication node to execute the AIoT service.

7. The method according to claim 6, characterized in that, The fourth piece of information carries cache parameters or resource parameters; The buffer parameters are used to indicate the amount of AIoT service data to be transmitted or the time required for unexecuted AIoT services within the AIoT service. The resource parameters include one or more of a first parameter, a second parameter, and a third parameter. The first parameter is used to indicate the time required for the AIoT service that has not yet been executed. The second parameter is used to indicate the amount of AIoT service data to be received. The third parameter is used to indicate the number of devices that have responded in the execution of the AIoT service.

8. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that, The first information is also used to indicate the configuration method of the first resource, which includes at least one of extending the usage time of the first resource or reconfiguring the first resource.

9. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, The first information is carried in a Radio Resource Control (RRC) message, a Media Access Control (MAC) control element (CE), or a Downlink Control Information (DCI).

10. A communication method, characterized in that, Applied to access network equipment, the method includes: The first information is received from a communication node. The first information is used to configure a first resource. The first resource is used for the communication node to communicate with an AIoT device. The first information includes at least one of the first status information of the communication node, the status information of the AIoT device, and the first execution information of the AIoT service. Send a second message to the communication node; the second message indicates the first resource.

11. The method according to claim 10, characterized in that, The first state information of the communication node includes one or more of the following: Information used to instruct the communication node to execute the AIoT service and to determine whether the communication node should perform cell handover; Used to instruct the communication node to execute the AIoT service, and to provide information on wireless link failures; Information used to indicate whether the communication node should continue, suspend, or terminate the AIoT service when a cell handover is triggered.

12. The method according to claim 10 or 11, characterized in that, The status information of the AIoT device includes one or more of the following: Information used to indicate the signal quality of the AIoT device; Information used to indicate the power status of the AIoT device.

13. The method according to any one of claims 10 to 12, characterized in that, The first execution information of the AIoT service includes one or more of the following: Information used to indicate whether the AIoT device is performing the AIoT service; Information used to indicate whether the AIoT device has completed the AIoT service; Information used to indicate the time required for unexecuted AIoT services within the AIoT service; Information used to indicate the amount of AIoT service data to be transmitted that is cached in the communication node; Information used to indicate the amount of AIoT service data that the communication node is about to receive; This information is used to indicate the number of devices awaiting a response in the AIoT service executed by the communication node.

14. The method according to any one of claims 10 to 13, characterized in that, The method further includes: A third message is sent to the communication node, the third message indicating a first action, the first action including the communication node suspending, continuing or terminating the AIoT service, and the third message being determined based on the first message.

15. The method according to claim 14, characterized in that, The method further includes: Send a fifth message to the core network device. The fifth message includes at least one of the second execution information of the AIoT service and the second status information of the communication node. The fifth message is used to determine a second action. The second action includes the communication node suspending, continuing or terminating the AIoT service. Receive a sixth message from the core network device, wherein the sixth message indicates the second action, and the first action is determined based on the second action.

16. The method according to claim 14 or 15, characterized in that, The method further includes: Receive fourth information from the communication node, wherein the fourth information includes information for instructing the communication node on the AIoT resources required to perform the AIoT service.

17. The method according to claim 16, characterized in that, The fourth piece of information carries cache parameters or resource parameters; The buffer parameters are used to indicate the amount of AIoT service data to be transmitted or the time required for unexecuted AIoT services within the AIoT service. The resource parameters include one or more of a first parameter, a second parameter, and a third parameter. The first parameter is used to indicate the time required for the AIoT service that has not yet been executed. The second parameter is used to indicate the amount of AIoT service data to be received. The third parameter is used to indicate the number of devices that have responded in the execution of the AIoT service.

18. The method according to any one of claims 15 to 17, characterized in that, The second execution information of the AIoT service includes one or more of the following: The identifier of the AIoT service; The identifier of the communication node; The information about the amount of AIoT service data to be transmitted is cached in the access network device.

19. The method according to any one of claims 15 to 18, characterized in that, The second state information of the communication node includes one or more of the following: Information used to indicate base station services provided to the communication node; The cell identifier of the communication node; The location of the communication node; The moving speed of the communication node; The direction of movement of the communication node; Used to instruct the communication node to execute the AIoT service, and to provide information on wireless link failures; Information used to instruct the communication node to execute the AIoT service and to perform cell handover; This information is used to instruct the communication node to execute the AIoT service and to enter the RRC idle state.

20. The method according to any one of claims 10 to 19, characterized in that, The first information is carried in a Radio Resource Control (RRC) message, a Media Access Control (MAC) control element (CE), or a Downlink Control Information (DCI).

21. A communication method, characterized in that, Applied to core network equipment, the method includes: The fifth information is received from the access network device. The fifth information is used to determine a second action. The second action includes suspending, continuing, or terminating the AIoT service by the communication node. The fifth information includes at least one of the second execution information of the AIoT service and the second status information of the communication node. A sixth message is sent to the access network device, wherein the sixth message indicates the second action.

22. The method according to claim 21, characterized in that, The second execution information of the AIoT service includes one or more of the following: The identifier of the AIoT service; The identifier of the communication node; The information about the amount of AIoT service data to be transmitted is cached in the access network device.

23. The method according to claim 21 or 22, characterized in that, The second state information of the communication node includes one or more of the following: Information used to indicate base station services provided to the communication node; The cell identifier of the communication node; The location of the communication node; The moving speed of the communication node; The direction of movement of the communication node; Used to instruct the communication node to execute the AIoT service, and to provide information on wireless link failures; Information used to instruct the communication node to execute the AIoT service and to perform cell handover; This information is used to instruct the communication node to execute the AIoT service and to enter the RRC idle state.

24. A communication device, characterized in that, in: The communication device includes a module for performing the method as described in any one of claims 1-9; or, The communication device includes a processor for performing the method as described in any one of claims 1-9.

25. A communication device, characterized in that, in: The communication device includes a module for performing the method as described in any one of claims 10-20; or, The communication device includes a processor configured to perform the method as described in any one of claims 10-20.

26. A communication device, characterized in that, in: The communication device includes a module for performing the method as described in any one of claims 21-23; or, The communication device includes a processor for performing the method as described in any one of claims 21-23.

27. A communication device, characterized in that, It includes logic circuitry and an interface, the logic circuitry and the interface being coupled; the interface is used for inputting and / or outputting information, and the logic circuitry is used for performing the method as described in any one of claims 1-23.

28. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The computer-readable storage medium is used to store a computer program, which, when executed, performs the method as described in any one of claims 1-23.

29. A communication system, characterized in that, It includes a first communication device, a second communication device, and a third communication device, wherein: The first communication device is used to perform the method according to any one of claims 1-9; The second communication device is used to perform the method according to any one of claims 10-20; The third communication device is used to perform the method according to any one of claims 21-23.

30. A computer program product containing instructions, characterized in that, When the computer program product is run on an electronic device, it causes the electronic device to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1-23.

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