Communication method and apparatus, storage medium, and program product

Abstract

Embodiments of the present application provide a communication method and apparatus, a storage medium, and a program product. The method comprises: a terminal side apparatus receives first configuration information, the first configuration information comprising the number N of physical ports supported by antenna elements of each panel in a multi-panel, where N is an integer greater than or equal to 2. Then, the terminal side apparatus sends a measurement result, the measurement result comprising first parameters corresponding to the N physical ports supported by the antenna elements of each panel in the multi-panel, such that the network side apparatus can acquire, on the basis of the measurement result, a codebook adapted to the multi-port antenna elements.

Description

Communication methods, devices, storage media and software products

[0001] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202411897352.1, filed on December 19, 2024, with the China National Intellectual Property Administration, entitled “Communication Method, Apparatus, Storage Medium and Program Product”, 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, apparatus, storage medium, and program product. Background Technology

[0003] 5G communication systems place higher demands on system capacity and spectral efficiency. In 5G communication systems, the application of massive multi-input multi-output (MIMO) technology plays a crucial role in improving system spectral efficiency. MIMO codebooks have always been an indispensable part of wireless communication standards, providing an effective method for obtaining channel state information (CSI) information for MIMO systems. The MIMO codebooks in the released 5G New Radio (NR) Release 15, such as Type I codebooks, are designed based on dual-port antennas (i.e., dual-polarized antennas).

[0004] A multiport antenna array integrates multiple antenna arrays with identical / vertical polarization or omnidirectional / directional radiation patterns within the same frequency band. Within a single resonant element, each antenna in a multiport antenna array is fed by an independent port. A multiport antenna array can provide more independent sub-channels than a dual-polarized antenna within the same area.

[0005] The prerequisites for Type I codebook design are: co-located dual-polarized antenna arrays are paired, with identical beam directions; and electromagnetic waves propagate through the same spatial multipath characteristics. Multiport antenna arrays, however, do not have paired physical ports; their beam directions can be identical or different; and the spatial multipath characteristics experienced by electromagnetic waves can be identical or different. Existing Type I codebooks cannot be directly used with multiport antenna arrays; therefore, a codebook adapted to multiport antenna arrays needs to be designed. Summary of the Invention

[0006] This application discloses a communication method, apparatus, storage medium, and program product that can obtain measurement results fed back by a terminal-side device, enabling a network-side device to obtain a codebook adapted to a multi-port antenna array based on the measurement results.

[0007] Firstly, embodiments of this application provide a communication method. This method can be applied to a terminal-side device, such as a terminal device or a communication module / processing module within the terminal device, or circuits or chips in the terminal device responsible for communication functions (such as a modem chip, also known as a baseband chip, or a system-on-chip (SoC) chip containing a modem core, or a system-in-package (SIP) chip), or circuits or chips in the terminal device responsible for processing functions (such as a graphics processing unit (GPU)). Taking the application of this method to a terminal-side device as an example, in this method, the terminal-side device receives first configuration information, which includes the number N of physical ports supported by the antenna array of each panel in a multi-panel array, where N is an integer greater than or equal to 2. Then, the terminal-side device sends measurement results, which include first parameters corresponding to the N physical ports supported by the antenna array of each panel in the multi-panel array.

[0008] In this embodiment of the application, the terminal device sends measurement results based on the received configuration information. The measurement results include first parameters corresponding to N physical ports, so that the network device can obtain or generate a codebook adapted to the multi-port antenna array based on the measurement results.

[0009] Optionally, the number of the first parameters can be one or more. For example, the multiple first parameters can be completely different. Alternatively, the multiple first parameters can be partially the same. Of course, the first parameters corresponding to the aforementioned N physical ports can also be completely identical.

[0010] In one possible implementation, the first parameter is included in the precoding matrix indicator (PMI). In other words, the precoding matrix indicator contains the first parameter. Optionally, the precoding matrix indicator may also include at least one of the following: a wideband beam selection index, a strongest beam index, and a wideband amplitude coefficient index.

[0011] In another possible implementation, the first parameter is included within other information. This other information can be understood as fields outside the precoding matrix indicator. That is, the first parameter is included in fields outside the precoding matrix indicator, meaning the first parameter is independent of the precoding matrix indicator.

[0012] In one possible implementation, the first parameter corresponding to the N physical ports supported by the antenna array of each panel in the multi-panel indicates the phase combining factor of N-1 physical ports of the N physical ports of the antenna array of each panel in the multi-panel relative to a first physical port, wherein the first physical port is any one of the N physical ports of the antenna array of each panel in the multi-panel.

[0013] The phase combining factor refers to the phase difference between two physical ports, which is used to achieve beam alignment. By measuring the phase of each physical port, the phase combining factors of N-1 physical ports relative to the first physical port can be obtained.

[0014] In another possible implementation, the multi-panel configuration includes at least a first panel and a second panel, wherein the first panel and the second panel are any two panels in the multi-panel configuration; the first parameter corresponding to the N physical ports indicates:

[0015] The phase combining factor of the N-1 physical ports of the antenna array in the first panel relative to the first physical port, wherein the first physical port is any one of the N physical ports of the antenna array in the first panel;

[0016] The phase combining factor of the N-1 physical ports of the antenna array in the second panel relative to the second physical port, wherein the second physical port is any one of the N physical ports of the antenna array in the second panel;

[0017] The broadband phase feedback information of the N physical ports of the antenna array of the second panel;

[0018] The sub-band phase feedback information of the N physical ports of the antenna array on the second panel.

[0019] In one possible implementation, the beam direction of the antenna pattern at each of the N physical ports of the antenna array in each panel of the multi-panel is partially the same. This partial similarity means that the beam directions of the antenna patterns at the N physical ports are not entirely identical, i.e., partially different.

[0020] Compared to antennas with N physical ports whose beam directions are exactly the same, this design can achieve a larger communication range.

[0021] In another possible implementation, the beam direction of the antenna pattern at each of the N physical ports of the antenna array in each panel of the multi-panel is completely different. This complete difference means that the beam directions of the antenna patterns at all N physical ports are different.

[0022] Compared to antennas with N physical ports whose beam directions are exactly the same, this design can achieve a larger communication range.

[0023] In one possible implementation, the first parameter corresponding to the N physical ports indicates:

[0024] The orthogonal beam group index corresponding to each of the N physical ports of the antenna array in the multi-panel, the beam combination index in the orthogonal beam group corresponding to each of the N physical ports of the antenna array in the multi-panel, the first beam number in the orthogonal beam group selected by each physical port of the N physical ports of the antenna array in the multi-panel, and the first beam being the beam in the orthogonal beam group selected by each physical port whose intensity is higher than that of other beams in the orthogonal beam group.

[0025] In one possible implementation, the aforementioned first configuration information further includes at least one of the following:

[0026] The number of antenna panels, the number of channel state information-reference signal (CSI-RS) antenna ports in the first dimension, the number of CSI-RS antenna ports in the second dimension, the number of sub-bands, and the number of phase alphabets.

[0027] In one possible implementation, the terminal device also receives second configuration information, which indicates that the first parameters corresponding to the N physical ports of the antenna array of each panel in the multi-panel are reported or reported separately.

[0028] This partial reporting could, for example, focus on reporting the first parameter corresponding to certain specific physical ports among the N physical ports of the antenna array on each panel. These specific physical ports could be designated (e.g., predefined or indicated by indication information), such as the first physical port, the second physical port, and the fourth physical port. Alternatively, these specific physical ports could be physical ports that meet certain conditions; for example, for similar or identical first parameters measured, any one could be selected for reporting. Using partial reporting can save signaling overhead.

[0029] This separate reporting can be understood as reporting independently for each physical port. For example, the first parameter corresponding to the first physical port, the first parameter corresponding to the second physical port, and the first parameter corresponding to the third physical port are reported separately. For instance, the first parameter corresponding to the first physical port, the first parameter corresponding to the second physical port, and the first parameter corresponding to the third physical port are contained in different fields. Using separate reporting provides a clear understanding of the first parameter for each port.

[0030] In another possible implementation, the terminal device also receives third configuration information, which indicates the first parameters corresponding to the N physical ports of the antenna array of each panel in the multi-panel system to be uniformly reported.

[0031] This unified reporting can be understood as the sharing of some information in the first parameter corresponding to the N physical ports of the antenna array in each panel of the multi-panel system. This information could be, for example, a wideband beam selection index and / or a strongest beam index. Therefore, only one set of wideband beam selection indices and / or one strongest beam index needs to be reported. Using a unified reporting method can save signaling overhead.

[0032] In another possible implementation, the terminal device also receives fourth configuration information, which indicates that the first parameters corresponding to the N physical ports of the antenna array of each panel in the multi-panel are reported separately or uniformly.

[0033] In one possible implementation, the antenna array is an antenna array designed based on characteristic mode theory. Each physical port of the antenna array corresponds to an antenna pattern, and the antenna patterns corresponding to different physical ports of the antenna array are mutually orthogonal.

[0034] In one possible implementation, the terminal device also acquires the measurement result based on a downlink reference signal.

[0035] In one possible implementation, the downlink reference signal includes any of the following:

[0036] Channel State Information Reference Signal (CSI-RS), Demodulation Reference Signal (DMRS), Cell Reference Signal (CRS), Tracking Reference Signal (TRS), Positioning Reference Signal (PRS), and Phase Tracking Reference Signal (PTRS).

[0037] In one possible implementation, the terminal device measures the downlink reference signal itself and obtains the measurement result. In another possible implementation, the terminal device measures the downlink reference signal through another device (such as another terminal device) and obtains the measurement result from that other device.

[0038] Secondly, embodiments of this application provide a communication method. This method can be applied to network-side devices, such as network access network equipment (or network devices), modules (e.g., circuits, chips, or chip systems) within the access network equipment, or logic nodes, logic modules, or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the access network equipment. Taking the application of this method to a network-side device as an example, in this method, the network-side device sends first configuration information, which includes the number N of physical ports supported by the antenna array of each panel in a multi-panel configuration, where N is an integer greater than or equal to 2. The network-side device also receives measurement results, which include first parameters corresponding to the N physical ports supported by the antenna array of each panel in the multi-panel configuration.

[0039] In one possible implementation, the first parameter is included in the precoding matrix indicating the PMI; or, the first parameter is included in other information.

[0040] In one possible implementation, the first parameter corresponding to the N physical ports supported by the antenna array of each panel in the multi-panel indicates the phase combining factor of N-1 physical ports of the N physical ports of the antenna array of each panel in the multi-panel relative to a first physical port, wherein the first physical port is any one of the N physical ports of the antenna array of each panel in the multi-panel.

[0041] In another possible implementation, the multi-panel configuration includes at least a first panel and a second panel, wherein the first panel and the second panel are any two panels in the multi-panel configuration; the first parameter corresponding to the N physical ports indicates:

[0042] The phase combining factor of the N-1 physical ports of the antenna array in the first panel relative to the first physical port, wherein the first physical port is any one of the N physical ports of the antenna array in the first panel;

[0043] The phase combining factor of the N-1 physical ports of the antenna array in the second panel relative to the second physical port, wherein the second physical port is any one of the N physical ports of the antenna array in the second panel;

[0044] The broadband phase feedback information of the N physical ports of the antenna array of the second panel;

[0045] The sub-band phase feedback information of the N physical ports of the antenna array on the second panel.

[0046] In one possible implementation, the beam direction portion of the antenna pattern of each physical port of the antenna array of each panel in the multi-panel is the same or completely different.

[0047] In one possible implementation, the first parameter corresponding to the N physical ports indicates:

[0048] The index of the orthogonal beam group corresponding to each of the N physical ports, the beam combination index in the orthogonal beam group corresponding to each of the N physical ports, the first beam number in the orthogonal beam group selected by each of the N physical ports, and the first beam being the beam in the orthogonal beam group selected by each physical port whose intensity is higher than that of other beams in the orthogonal beam group.

[0049] In one possible implementation, the network-side device also sends second configuration information, which instructs the partial or separate reporting of first parameters corresponding to the N physical ports of the antenna array of each panel in the multi-panel array.

[0050] In one possible implementation, the network-side device also sends third configuration information, which instructs the unified reporting of the first parameters corresponding to the N physical ports of the antenna array of each panel in the multi-panel system.

[0051] In one possible implementation, the network-side device also sends fourth configuration information, which instructs the partial, separate, or unified reporting of the first parameters corresponding to the N physical ports of the antenna array of each panel in the multi-panel array.

[0052] Thirdly, this application provides a communication device that has the functions of the first aspect above. For example, the communication device includes modules, units, or means that perform the operations involved in the first aspect above. These modules, units, or means can be implemented by software, hardware, or a combination of software and hardware.

[0053] In one implementation, the communication device includes: a communication module for receiving first configuration information, the first configuration information including the number N of physical ports supported by the antenna array of each panel in the multi-panel array, where N is an integer greater than or equal to 2.

[0054] The processing module is used to acquire measurement results, which include the first parameters corresponding to the N physical ports supported by the antenna array of each panel in the multi-panel system.

[0055] For further details on each module, please refer to the first section; they will not be repeated here.

[0056] Fourthly, this application also provides a communication device that has the functions of the second aspect above. For example, the communication device includes modules, units, or means that perform the operations involved in the second aspect above. These modules, units, or means can be implemented by software, hardware, or a combination of software and hardware.

[0057] In one implementation, the communication device includes: a communication module for transmitting first configuration information, the first configuration information including the number N of physical ports supported by the antenna array of each panel in the multi-panel array, where N is an integer greater than or equal to 2.

[0058] The communication module is also used to receive measurement results, which include the first parameters corresponding to the N physical ports supported by the antenna array of each panel in the multi-panel structure.

[0059] For further details on each module, please refer to the second section; they will not be repeated here.

[0060] Fifthly, this application provides a communication system, including the communication device as described in the second aspect and the communication device as described in the third aspect.

[0061] In a sixth aspect, this application provides a communication device including a processor, the processor being configured to execute a computer program or computer-executable instructions stored in a memory, and / or to cause the device to perform a method provided in any of the possible embodiments of the first to fourth aspects via logic circuitry.

[0062] One possible implementation also includes memory. Alternatively, the memory and processor can be integrated together.

[0063] One possible implementation also includes an interface circuit.

[0064] In one possible implementation, the device is a chip or chip system.

[0065] In a seventh aspect, this application provides a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program that is executed by a processor to implement the method provided in any possible implementation of the first aspect, or the method provided in any possible implementation of the second aspect.

[0066] Eighthly, this application provides a computer program product that, when run on a computer, causes the computer to perform a method as provided in any possible implementation of the first aspect, or a method as provided in any possible implementation of the second aspect.

[0067] It is understood that the apparatus described in the third aspect, the apparatus described in the fourth aspect, the system described in the fifth aspect, the communication apparatus described in the sixth aspect, the computer storage medium described in the seventh aspect, or the computer program product described in the eighth aspect are all used to execute the method provided in any of the first aspects or the method provided in any of the second aspects. Therefore, the beneficial effects they can achieve can be referred to the beneficial effects in the corresponding methods, and will not be repeated here. Attached Figure Description

[0068] The accompanying drawings used in the embodiments of this application are described below.

[0069] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a communication system provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0070] Figure 2a is a flowchart illustrating the process of obtaining the CSI of the downlink channel;

[0071] Figure 2b is a schematic diagram of an antenna system provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0072] Figure 3 is a flowchart illustrating a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0073] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of another communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0074] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of the radiation direction of a three-port antenna provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0075] Figures 6 and 7 are schematic diagrams of the communication device provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0076] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of another communication device provided in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0077] The embodiments of this application are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0078] The technical solutions provided in this application can be applied to various communication systems, such as 5G communication systems, future communication systems, or multiple converged communication systems, as well as existing communication systems. The application scenarios of the technical solutions provided in this application can include various scenarios, such as machine-to-machine (M2M), macro-micro communication, enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB), ultra-reliable and low-latency communication (uRLLC), and massive machine-type communication (mMTC). These scenarios may include, but are not limited to, communication scenarios between terminal devices, communication scenarios between network devices, and communication scenarios between network devices and terminal devices. Network devices include both network devices and core network devices. The following descriptions all use the scenario of communication between network devices and terminal devices as examples.

[0079] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the architecture of a communication system 1000 used in an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 1, the communication system includes a wireless access network 100 and a core network 200. Optionally, the communication system 1000 may also include an Internet 300. The wireless access network 100 may include at least one network device (110a and 110b in Figure 1) and at least one terminal device (120a-120j in Figure 1). The terminal device is wirelessly connected to the network device, and the network device is wirelessly or wiredly connected to the core network. The core network device and the network device may be independent physical devices, or the functions of the core network device and the logical functions of the network device may be integrated on the same physical device, or a single physical device may integrate some of the functions of the core network device and some of the functions of the network device. Terminal devices and network devices can be interconnected via wired or wireless means. Figure 1 is only a schematic diagram; the communication system may also include other network devices, such as wireless relay devices and wireless backhaul devices, which are not shown in Figure 1.

[0080] Optionally, in practical applications, the wireless communication system may include multiple network devices (also known as access network devices) and multiple terminal devices simultaneously. A network device can serve one or more terminal devices simultaneously. A terminal device can also access one or more network devices simultaneously. This application embodiment does not limit the number of terminal devices and network devices included in the wireless communication system.

[0081] In this context, a network device can be an entity on the network side used to transmit or receive signals. A network device can also be an access device that allows terminal devices to wirelessly connect to the wireless communication system; for example, a network device can be a base station. Base stations can broadly encompass various names listed below, or be interchangeable with them, such as: radio access network (RAN) node, Node B, evolved Node B (eNB), next-generation Node B (gNB), access network equipment in open radio access network (O-RAN), relay station, access point, transmitting and receiving point (TRP), transmitting point (TP), master eNB (MeNB), secondary eNB (SeNB), multi-standard radio (MSR) node, home base station, network controller, access node, wireless node, access point (AP), transmission node, transceiver node, building baseband unit (BBU), remote radio unit (RRU), active antenna unit (AAU), remote radio head (RRH), centralized unit (CU), and distributed unit (CU). Network equipment includes units (DU), radio units (RU), centralized unit control plane (CU-CP) nodes, centralized unit user plane (CU-UP) nodes, positioning nodes, etc. Base stations can be macro base stations, micro base stations, relay nodes, donor nodes, or similar entities, or combinations thereof. Network equipment can also refer to communication modules, modems, or chips installed within the aforementioned equipment or devices. Network equipment can also be mobile switching centers and equipment that performs base station functions in device-to-device (D2D), vehicle-to-everything (V2X), and machine-to-machine (M2M) communications; network-side equipment in 6G networks; and equipment performing base station functions in future communication systems. Network equipment can support networks using the same or different access technologies.The embodiments of this application do not limit the specific technology or device form used in the network device.

[0082] Network devices can be fixed or mobile. For example, base stations 110a and 110b are stationary and are responsible for wireless transmission and reception in one or more cells from terminal device 120. The helicopter or drone 120i shown in Figure 1 can be configured to act as a mobile base station, and one or more cells can move depending on the location of the mobile base station 120i. In other examples, the helicopter or drone (120i) can be configured as a terminal device communicating with base station 110b.

[0083] In this application, the communication device used to implement the above-mentioned network access functions can be an access network device, a network device with some access network functions, or a device capable of supporting the implementation of access network functions, such as a chip system, hardware circuit, software module, or hardware circuit plus software module. This device can be installed in the access network device or used in conjunction with the access network device. In the method of this application, the example of an access network device being used as the communication device to implement the access network device functions is described.

[0084] A terminal device can be a user-side entity used to receive or transmit signals, such as a mobile phone. Terminal devices can be used to connect people, things, and machines. They can communicate with one or more core networks via network devices. Terminal devices include handheld devices with wireless connectivity, other processing devices connected to a wireless modem, or vehicle-mounted devices. Terminal devices can be portable, pocket-sized, handheld, computer-embedded, or vehicle-mounted mobile devices. Terminal devices can be widely used in various scenarios, such as cellular communication, D2D, V2X, point-to-point (P2P), machine-to-machine (M2M), machine-type communication (MTC), Internet of Things (IoT), virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), industrial control, autonomous driving, telemedicine, smart grids, smart furniture, smart offices, smart wearables, smart transportation, smart cities, drones, robots, remote sensing, passive sensing, positioning, navigation and tracking, autonomous delivery and mobility, etc.Examples of terminal devices include: user equipment (UE) conforming to the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) standard, fixed equipment, mobile equipment, handheld devices, wearable devices, cellular phones, smartphones, session initiated protocol (SIP) phones, laptops, personal computers, smart books, vehicles, satellites, global positioning system (GPS) devices, target tracking devices, drones, helicopters, aircraft, ships, remote control devices, smart home devices, industrial equipment, personal communication service (PCS) phones, wireless local loop (WLL) stations, personal digital assistants (PDAs), wireless network cameras, tablets, handheld computers, mobile internet devices (MIDs), wearable devices such as smartwatches, VR devices, AR devices, wireless terminals in industrial control, terminals in vehicle-to-everything (V2X) systems, wireless terminals in self-driving vehicles, wireless terminals in smart grids, wireless terminals in transportation safety, and smart city applications. Wireless terminals in various scenarios include smart gas pumps, high-speed rail terminals, and smart home terminals such as smart speakers, smart coffee machines, and smart printers. Terminal devices can be wireless devices in these scenarios or devices installed on wireless devices, such as communication modules, modems, or chips. Terminal devices can also be called terminals, user equipment (UE), mobile stations (MS), mobile terminals (MT), etc. Terminal devices can also be used in future wireless communication systems. Terminal devices can be used in dedicated network equipment or general-purpose equipment. The embodiments of this application do not limit the specific technologies or device forms used in the terminal devices.

[0085] Optionally, the terminal device can be used to act as a base station. For example, the UE can act as a scheduling entity, providing sidelink signaling between UEs in V2X, D2D, or P2P, etc. As shown in Figure 1, cellular phone 120a and car 120b communicate with each other using sidelink signaling. Cellular phone 120a communicates with smart home device 120e without relaying communication signals through base station 110b.

[0086] In this application, the communication device used to implement the functions of the terminal device can be a terminal device, a terminal device having some of the functions of the aforementioned terminal device, or a device capable of supporting the implementation of the functions of the aforementioned terminal device, such as a chip system. This device can be installed in the terminal device or used in conjunction with the terminal device. In this application, the chip system can be composed of chips or include chips and other discrete components. The technical solutions provided in this application are described using the example of a terminal device or UE as the communication device.

[0087] Optionally, wireless communication systems typically consist of cells. Base stations manage the cells and provide communication services to multiple mobile stations (MS) within them. A base station includes a baseband unit (BBU) and a remote radio unit (RRU). The BBU and RRU can be located in different places; for example, the RRU can be deployed remotely to a high-traffic area, while the BBU is located in a central equipment room. Alternatively, the BBU and RRU can be located in the same equipment room. The BBU and RRU can also be different components within the same rack. Optionally, a cell can correspond to one carrier or a member carrier.

[0088] In some deployments, the network devices mentioned in the embodiments of this application may be devices including CU, DU, or CU and DU, or devices with control plane CU nodes (central unit-control plane (CU-CP)) and user plane CU nodes (central unit-user plane (CU-UP)) and DU nodes. For example, the network devices may include gNB-CU-CP, gNB-CU-UP, and gNB-DU.

[0089] In some deployments, multiple RAN nodes collaborate to assist terminals in achieving wireless access, with different RAN nodes each implementing some of the base station's functions. For example, RAN nodes can be CUs, DUs, CU-CPs, CU-UPs, or RUs. CUs and DUs can be configured separately or included in the same network element, such as a BBU. RUs can be included in radio frequency equipment or radio frequency units, such as RRUs, AAUs, or RRHs.

[0090] RAN nodes can support one or more types of fronthaul interfaces, each corresponding to a DU and RU with different functions. If the fronthaul interface between the DU and RU is a common public radio interface (CPRI), the DU is configured to implement one or more baseband functions, and the RU is configured to implement one or more radio frequency functions. If the fronthaul interface between the DU and RU is another type of interface, relative to CPRI, some downlink and / or uplink baseband functions, such as, for downlink, precoding, digital beamforming (BF), or one or more of inverse fast Fourier transform (IFFT) / cyclic prefix addition (CP), are moved from the DU to the RU; and for uplink, one or more of digital beamforming (BF), or fast Fourier transform (IFFT) / cyclic prefix removal (CP), are moved from the DU to the RU. In one possible implementation, the interface can be an enhanced common public radio interface (eCPRI). Under the eCPRI architecture, the segmentation between DU and RU differs, corresponding to different categories (Cat) of eCPRI, such as eCPRI Cat A, B, C, D, E, F.

[0091] Taking eCPRI Cat A as an example, for downlink transmission, the DU is configured to implement one or more functions before and after layer mapping (i.e., coding, rate matching, scrambling, modulation, and layer mapping), while other functions after layer mapping (e.g., RE mapping, digital beamforming (BF), or one or more functions of inverse fast Fourier transform (IFFT) / adding cyclic prefix (CP)) are moved to the RU. For uplink transmission, the DU is configured to implement one or more functions before and after de-RE mapping (i.e., decoding, de-rate matching, descrambling, demodulation, inverse discrete Fourier transform (IDFT), channel equalization, and de-RE mapping), while other functions after de-RE mapping (e.g., digital BF or one or more functions of fast Fourier transform (FFT) / removing CP) are moved to the RU. It is understandable that the functional descriptions of the DU and RU corresponding to various types of eCPRI can be found in the eCPRI protocol, and will not be elaborated here.

[0092] In one possible design, the processing unit in the BBU used to implement baseband functions is called the baseband high (BBH) unit, and the processing unit in the RRU / AAU / RRH used to implement baseband functions is called the baseband low (BBL) unit.

[0093] In different systems, CU (or CU-CP and CU-UP), DU, or RU may have different names, but those skilled in the art will understand their meaning. For example, in an ORAN system, CU can also be called O-CU (open CU), DU can also be called O-DU, CU-CP can also be called O-CU-CP, CU-UP can also be called O-CU-UP, and RU can also be called O-RU. Any of the units among CU (or CU-CP, CU-UP), DU, and RU in this application can be implemented through software modules, hardware modules, or a combination of software modules and hardware modules.

[0094] In this embodiment, the apparatus for implementing the functions of a network device can be a network device itself; it can also be an apparatus capable of supporting the network device in implementing those functions, such as a chip system, hardware circuit, software module, or a hardware circuit plus a software module. This apparatus can be installed in the network device or used in conjunction with the network device. In this embodiment, the example of a network device being used to implement the functions of a network device is provided only and does not constitute a limitation on the solutions described in this embodiment.

[0095] It is understood that this application can be applied between network devices and terminal devices.

[0096] Communication between network devices and terminal devices follows a specific protocol layer structure. This protocol layer structure can include a control plane protocol layer structure and a user plane protocol layer structure. For example, the control plane protocol layer structure can include the functions of protocol layers such as the radio resource control (RRC) layer, the packet data convergence protocol (PDCP) layer, the radio link control (RLC) layer, the medium access control (MAC) layer, and the physical layer. Similarly, the user plane protocol layer structure can include the functions of protocol layers such as the PDCP layer, the RLC layer, the MAC layer, and the physical layer. In one possible implementation, a service data adaptation protocol (SDAP) layer can be included above the PDCP layer.

[0097] Optionally, the protocol layer structure between network devices and terminal devices may also include an artificial intelligence (AI) layer for transmitting data related to AI functions.

[0098] Taking data transmission between network devices and terminal devices as an example, data transmission needs to pass through user plane protocol layers, such as the SDAP layer, PDCP layer, RLC layer, MAC layer, and physical layer. The SDAP layer, PDCP layer, RLC layer, MAC layer, and physical layer can also be collectively referred to as the access layer. Based on the direction of data transmission, it is divided into sending and receiving; each of these layers is further divided into a sending part and a receiving part. Taking downlink data transmission as an example, after the PDCP layer obtains data from the upper layer, it transmits the data to the RLC layer and MAC layer. The MAC layer then generates a transport block, and finally, it is wirelessly transmitted through the physical layer. Data is encapsulated in corresponding ways at each layer. For example, data received by a layer from the upper layer is considered a Service Data Unit (SDU) of that layer. After encapsulation by that layer, it becomes a Protocol Data Unit (PDU) and is then passed to the next layer.

[0099] For example, the terminal device may also have an application layer and a non-access layer. The application layer can be used to provide services to applications installed on the terminal device. For instance, downlink data received by the terminal device can be sequentially transmitted from the physical layer to the application layer, and then provided to the application by the application layer. Alternatively, the application layer can acquire data generated by the application and sequentially transmit the data to the physical layer for transmission to other communication devices. The non-access layer can be used to forward user data, such as forwarding uplink data received from the application layer to the SDAP layer, or forwarding downlink data received from the SDAP layer to the application layer.

[0100] It should be understood that the number and type of each device in the communication system shown in Figure 1 are for illustrative purposes only, and this application is not limited thereto. In actual applications, the communication system may include more terminal devices, more access network devices, and other network elements, such as core network devices and / or network elements used to implement artificial intelligence functions.

[0101] It is understandable that all or part of the functions implemented by one or more of the terminal devices, access network devices, core network devices, or network elements used to implement artificial intelligence functions can be virtualized, that is, implemented through one or more of dedicated or general-purpose processors and corresponding software modules. Among these, the terminal devices and access network devices involve air interface transmission, and the transmit and receive functions of this interface can be implemented in hardware. Core network devices, such as operation administration and maintenance (OAM) network elements, can also be virtualized. Optionally, one or more of the functions of the virtualized terminal devices, access network devices, core network devices, or network elements used to implement artificial intelligence functions can be implemented by cloud devices, such as cloud devices in over-the-top (OTT) systems.

[0102] In this application, the phrase "sending information to... (e.g., a terminal)" or the related illustrations in the accompanying drawings can be understood as the destination of the information being the terminal. This can include sending information directly or indirectly to the terminal. Similarly, the phrase "receiving information from... (e.g., a terminal)" or "receiving information from... (e.g., a terminal)" or the related illustrations in the accompanying drawings can be understood as the source of the information being the terminal. This can include receiving information directly or indirectly from the terminal. Information may undergo necessary processing between the source and destination, such as format changes, but the destination can understand the valid information from the source. Similar expressions in this application can be interpreted similarly, and will not be elaborated further here.

[0103] Taking 5G communication systems as an example, 5G communication systems place higher demands on system capacity and spectral efficiency. In 5G communication systems, the application of MIMO technology plays a crucial role in improving system spectral efficiency. When using MIMO technology, network equipment needs to precode the downlink data before sending it to the UE. How to perform precoding relies on channel state information; therefore, accurate feedback of channel state information is a significant factor affecting system performance.

[0104] For example, in a frequency division duplex (FDD) system, the UE needs to feed back the downlink channel CSI to the base station. The basic process is shown in Figure 2a, which is a schematic diagram of the process for obtaining the downlink channel CSI. It includes the following steps: S201. The base station sends channel measurement configuration information to the UE, informing the UE of the time and behavior of channel measurement; S202. The base station sends a reference signal (RS) to the UE for channel measurement; S203. The UE performs measurement based on the reference signal sent by the base station, calculates the final CSI feedback amount, and feeds back the CSI to the base station; S204. The base station then transmits data based on the CSI fed back by the UE. Specifically, the base station uses the rank indication (RI) fed back by the UE to determine the number of data streams to be transmitted to the UE; the base station uses the channel quality indicator (CQI) fed back by the UE to determine the modulation order and channel coding rate of the data transmitted to the UE; and the base station uses the precoding matrix indication (PMI) fed back by the UE to determine the precoding of the data transmitted to the UE.

[0105] Because the current Type I codebook is designed based on dual-port antennas, multi-port antenna arrays cannot directly use the existing Type I codebook.

[0106] In view of this, this application provides a communication method, apparatus, storage medium, and program product that can obtain measurement results fed back by a terminal-side device, enabling a network-side device to obtain a codebook adapted to a multi-port antenna array based on the measurement results.

[0107] The following is an explanation of the technical terms used in this plan.

[0108] 1. Precoding Matrix Indication (PMI):

[0109] PMI (Precoding Indicator) is a feedback mechanism from the terminal device to the downlink channel state, indicating to the base station which precoding matrix to select for signal transmission. The precoding matrix is ​​a linear transformation matrix used to process signals in a multi-antenna system.

[0110] 2. Orthogonal beamforming:

[0111] An orthogonal beamgroup is a set of precoding matrices with orthogonal properties. Beams in an orthogonal beamgroup can transmit independently on the same spectrum resources with minimal interference between them. Essentially, an orthogonal beamgroup is a set of orthogonal discrete fourier transform (DFT) vectors.

[0112] 3. Antenna ports:

[0113] An antenna port is a logical concept; one antenna port can correspond to one physical transmit antenna or multiple physical transmit antennas. In both cases, the terminal's receiver will not decompose signals from the same antenna port. From the terminal's perspective, regardless of whether the channel is formed by a single physical transmit antenna or by combining multiple physical transmit antennas, the reference signal (RS) corresponding to that antenna port defines it. For example, the antenna port corresponding to DMRS is the DMRS port, and the terminal can obtain the channel estimate for the corresponding antenna port based on the reference signal. Each antenna port corresponds to a time / frequency resource grid and has its own independent reference signal. One antenna port is one channel, and the terminal performs channel estimation and data demodulation based on the reference signal corresponding to that antenna port.

[0114] Antenna ports are typically associated with a reference signal (e.g., a CSI-RS antenna port associated with CSI-RS), and can be understood as a transmit / receive interface on the channel through which the reference signal passes. In low-frequency systems, an antenna port may correspond to one or more antenna elements that jointly transmit the reference signal; the receiver can treat them as a whole without distinguishing between individual elements. In high-frequency systems, an antenna port may correspond to a beam; similarly, the receiver only needs to treat this beam as an interface and does not need to distinguish between individual elements.

[0115] It is understood that in this application, a physical port refers to a separate physical physical port for feeding an antenna array, not a logical antenna port (such as the antenna port mentioned above). For details, please refer to the physical port 201 shown in Figure 2b. It is understood that the physical port 201 shown in Figure 2b can specifically be one or more physical ports (e.g., N physical ports).

[0116] 4. Antenna element:

[0117] An antenna element refers to the basic unit or component that makes up an antenna, usually referring to a single radiating element or radiator. An antenna element is a physical part of an antenna used to convert electrical energy into electromagnetic waves (radiation) or electromagnetic waves into electrical energy (reception). See antenna element 202 in Figure 2b for a specific example. It can be understood that antenna element 202 can correspond to one or more physical ports (e.g., the physical ports in the dashed box in Figure 2b, which can have N ports).

[0118] As you can understand, in the context of multi-panel displays, "antenna array per panel" refers to each antenna array within each panel. The number N of physical ports supported by each antenna array per panel means that each antenna array per panel corresponds to N physical ports. For example, panel a has M antenna arrays, and each of these M antenna arrays corresponds to N physical ports. That is, one antenna array corresponds to N physical ports. N is an integer greater than or equal to 2.

[0119] The antenna array described below is based on any one antenna array in a panel. It is also applicable to other antenna arrays in the same panel, as well as to antenna arrays in other panels.

[0120] 5. Antenna panel:

[0121] An antenna panel is a planar or curved structure composed of several antenna elements arranged in a specific manner, typically used in large-scale antenna arrays. The antenna panel can be the basic unit of an antenna array, carrying the signal radiation function. More complex and optimized radiation modes and performance can be achieved by combining multiple antenna panels. See antenna panel 203 in Figure 2b for a specific example.

[0122] 6. Antenna array:

[0123] An antenna array is an antenna system composed of multiple antenna elements (also called antenna units) arranged in a specific geometric pattern and structure. These antenna elements typically work together to radiate or receive electromagnetic waves. Radiation modes, gain, and directivity are controlled by adjusting parameters such as the relative positions, feeding methods, and phases of these antenna elements. An antenna array can contain multiple antenna panels (i.e., multi-panel arrays as described below). See antenna array 204 in Figure 2b for details.

[0124] As shown in Figure 2b, multiple physical ports 201 form an antenna element 202. Multiple antenna elements 202 form an antenna panel 203 (hereinafter referred to as a single panel). Multiple antenna panels 203 (hereinafter referred to as multiple panels) or multiple antenna elements form an antenna array 204. A multiple panel can be composed of at least two single panels.

[0125] 7. Codebook:

[0126] A codebook is a predefined set of vectors that can be used for beamforming and multiplexing. The codebook contains predefined precoding matrices used to transmit signals from the base station to the user equipment. In 5G NR, the main role of the codebook is to assist the system in spatial multiplexing and beamforming to improve system capacity, signal quality, and coverage.

[0127] The codebook adapted to the multi-port antenna array is a codebook designed specifically for the physical characteristics of the multi-port antenna array. Compared to existing codebooks, the codebook adapted to the multi-port antenna array can improve the precoding performance of the multi-port antenna array.

[0128] 8. Type I Codebook:

[0129] Type I codebooks are a type of codebook used for downlink precoding. They are mainly used to support MIMO systems with a relatively small number of antennas and are suitable for situations where the number of antennas in base stations and user equipment is small or medium.

[0130] 9. Type I Multi-panel Codebook:

[0131] Type I multi-panel codebook refers to an extended version of the Type I codebook used in 5G NR for massive MIMO or systems with multiple antenna panels. The goal of the Type I multi-panel codebook is to support collaborative work between multiple antenna panels to enable beamforming and signal transmission in larger-scale antenna arrays.

[0132] The Type I multi-panel codebook can include Mode 1 and Mode 2. Mode 1 involves designing the precoding matrix independently for the physical ports of each panel in the multi-panel system, and using inter-panel compensation factors to construct the precoding matrix for all panels. Mode 2 treats all antenna panels in the multi-panel system as a whole, first performing beam selection, and then phase combining to construct the precoding matrix for all panels.

[0133] The architecture of the embodiments of this application has been described above. The methods of the embodiments of this application will be described in detail below.

[0134] Referring to Figure 3, a flowchart illustrating a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application is shown. Optionally, this method can be applied to the aforementioned communication system, such as the communication system shown in Figure 1. The communication method shown in Figure 3 may include steps 301-302. Steps 301-302 are as follows:

[0135] 301. The network-side device sends first configuration information, which includes the number N of physical ports supported by the antenna array of each panel in the multi-panel configuration, where N is an integer greater than or equal to 2. Correspondingly, the terminal-side device receives the first configuration information.

[0136] Here, a physical port refers to a single physical port that powers an antenna element, not a logical antenna port (e.g., antenna ports). It can be understood that the number N of physical ports supported by the antenna elements of each panel in this multi-panel configuration corresponds to N physical ports per antenna element per panel.

[0137] For example, the network-side device sends the first configuration information via RRC signaling, downlink control information (DCI) signaling, or MAC layer control element (CE) signaling.

[0138] The network-side device sends first configuration information so that the terminal-side device can measure the channel response of the corresponding port based on the number of physical ports N indicated in the first configuration information, obtain CSI information, and provide feedback based on the CSI information.

[0139] In one possible implementation, the aforementioned first configuration information also includes one or more of the following:

[0140] The number of antenna panels, the number of CSI-RS antenna ports in the first dimension, the number of CSI-RS antenna ports in the second dimension, the number of sub-bands, and the number of phase alphabets.

[0141] The first dimension refers to the number of rows of CSI-RS antenna ports corresponding to the uniform planar antenna array, and the second dimension refers to the number of columns of CSI-RS antenna ports corresponding to the uniform planar antenna array. A sub-band refers to a subset of the operating frequency range of the terminal device. The phase alphabet is a predefined set used to select and represent phase shifts, containing a set of discrete phase values ​​that are typically uniformly distributed; for example, each phase value might be at a fixed interval (e.g., rotating 30°, 45°, etc. each time). These phase values ​​are designed to generate optimal beamforming under a specific antenna configuration.

[0142] This example illustrates the concept of the first configuration information including one or more of the above-mentioned items. It is understood that one or more of the following: the number of antenna panels, the number of CSI-RS antenna ports in the first dimension, the number of CSI-RS antenna ports in the second dimension, the number of sub-bands, and the number of phase alphabets can be configured in other information; this solution does not impose any restrictions on this.

[0143] In one possible implementation, the network-side device also sends any of the following reference signals:

[0144] Channel State Information Reference Signal (CSI-RS), Demodulation Reference Signal (DMRS), Cell Reference Signal (CRS), Follower Reference Signal (TRS), Position Reference Signal (PRS), and Phase Follower Reference Signal (PTRS).

[0145] The network-side device sends a reference signal so that the terminal-side device can measure the reference signal and obtain the measurement result. For a specific implementation, please refer to the description of step 403 in the embodiment shown in Figure 4, which will not be detailed here.

[0146] 302. The terminal device sends the measurement results, which include the first parameters corresponding to the N physical ports supported by the antenna array of each panel in the above multi-panel configuration.

[0147] It is understood that the terminal device also acquires the measurement result before transmitting it. In one possible implementation, the terminal device acquires the measurement result by acquiring the measurement result based on a downlink reference signal. For example, the downlink reference signal includes any one of the following: Channel State Information Reference Signal (CSI-RS), Demodulation Reference Signal (DMRS), Cell Reference Signal (CRS), Following Reference Signal (TRS), Positioning Reference Signal (PRS), and Phase Following Reference Signal (PTRS).

[0148] In one possible implementation, the terminal device measures the downlink reference signal itself and obtains the measurement result. In another possible implementation, the terminal device measures the downlink reference signal through another device (such as another terminal device) and obtains the measurement result from that other device. This solution does not limit this approach. For a specific implementation, please refer to the description of step 403 in the embodiment shown in Figure 4, which will not be detailed here.

[0149] It is understood that, for ease of understanding, this application describes the first parameter corresponding to the N physical ports supported by an antenna element in an antenna panel. It is also understood that the description of the first parameter corresponding to the N physical ports supported by an antenna element in an antenna panel applies to other antenna elements in the same antenna panel, and to other antenna panels.

[0150] The first parameters corresponding to the above N physical ports may be different for each of them, or some of the first parameters corresponding to the above N physical ports may be the same, or all of the first parameters corresponding to the above N physical ports may be the same.

[0151] For example, the first parameters of N physical ports can be completely different. For instance, if N is 5, the first port corresponds to first parameter #1 (denoted as a1), the second port corresponds to first parameter #2 (denoted as a2), the third port corresponds to first parameter #3 (denoted as a3), the fourth port corresponds to first parameter #4 (denoted as a4), and the fifth port corresponds to first parameter #5 (denoted as a5). Alternatively, these first parameters can be partially the same. For instance, the first to third ports correspond to first parameter #1 (denoted as a1), and the fourth to fifth ports correspond to first parameter #2 (denoted as a2). Of course, the first parameters corresponding to the N physical ports can also be completely identical. For example, the first to fifth ports can all correspond to the same first parameter (denoted as a). This solution does not impose any restrictions on this.

[0152] In one possible implementation, the first parameter is included in the precoding matrix indication (PMI). In other words, the precoding matrix indication includes the first parameter. For example, the terminal device sends a precoding matrix indication containing the first parameter to the network device. Optionally, the precoding matrix indication may further include one or more of the following: a wideband beam selection index, a strongest beam index, and a wideband amplitude coefficient index.

[0153] In another possible implementation, the first parameter is included in other information. This other information can be understood as fields other than the precoding matrix indicator. That is, the first parameter is included in fields other than the precoding matrix indicator, meaning the first parameter is independent of the precoding matrix indicator. For example, the terminal device sends a precoding matrix indicator to the network device, and also sends the first parameter. Optionally, the precoding matrix indicator includes one or more of the following: a wideband beam selection index, a strongest beam index, and a wideband amplitude coefficient index.

[0154] The following section introduces several ways to implement the indication content of the first parameter.

[0155] Implementation method (1): By treating the physical ports of each panel in the multi-panel array as independent entities, and then constructing the precoding matrix of all panels using inter-panel compensation factors (i.e., mode 1 corresponding to the Type I multi-panel codebook). The first parameter indication of the N physical ports supported by the antenna elements of each panel in the multi-panel array is as follows:

[0156] The phase combining factor of N-1 physical ports of the antenna array of each panel in the multi-panel array relative to the first physical port, wherein the first physical port is any one of the N physical ports of the antenna array of each panel in the multi-panel array.

[0157] For example, the aforementioned multi-panel structure includes at least a first panel and a second panel, where the first panel and the second panel are any two panels in the multi-panel structure. The following explanation uses the first panel and the second panel as examples. The first parameter indications for the N physical ports supported by the antenna elements of each panel in the multi-panel structure are as follows:

[0158] The phase combining factor of the N-1 physical ports of the antenna array in the first panel relative to the first physical port, wherein the first physical port is any one of the N physical ports of the antenna array in the first panel;

[0159] The phase combining factor of the N-1 physical ports of the antenna array in the second panel relative to the second physical port, which is any one of the N physical ports of the antenna array in the second panel.

[0160] In this application, the phase combining factor refers to the phase difference between two physical ports, which is used to achieve beam alignment. By measuring the phase of each physical port, the phase combining factors of N-1 physical ports relative to the first physical port can be obtained.

[0161] Understandably, this implementation method (1) is illustrated using a multi-panel system including a first panel and a second panel as an example. It may also include a third panel and / or a fourth panel, etc. This solution does not impose any restrictions on this.

[0162] Implementation method (2): By treating all antenna panels in the multi-panel array as a whole, beam selection is first implemented, and then phase merging is performed to construct the precoding matrix of all panels (that is, mode 2 corresponding to the Type I multi-panel codebook). The above multi-panel array includes at least a first panel and a second panel, which are any two panels in the multi-panel array. The following explanation uses the first panel and the second panel as examples. The first parameter indication corresponding to each of the N physical ports is as follows:

[0163] The phase combining factor of the N-1 physical ports of the antenna array in the first panel relative to the first physical port, wherein the first physical port is any one of the N physical ports of the antenna array in the first panel;

[0164] The phase combining factor of the N-1 physical ports of the antenna array in the second panel relative to the second physical port, which is any one of the N physical ports of the antenna array in the second panel;

[0165] Broadband phase feedback information of N physical ports of the antenna array on the second panel;

[0166] The sub-band phase feedback information of the N physical ports of the antenna array on the second panel.

[0167] Each antenna array on the first panel contains N physical ports, and each antenna array on the second panel also contains N physical ports. The aforementioned broadband phase feedback information can be understood as shared information within the feedback bandwidth of the terminal-side device. Sub-band phase feedback information represents the phase combining factor between different physical antenna ports within each sub-band.

[0168] Understandably, this implementation method (2) is illustrated using a multi-panel system including a first panel and a second panel as an example. It may also include a third panel and / or a fourth panel, etc. This solution does not impose any restrictions on this.

[0169] The above example illustrates the indication of the first parameter. The following section further explains the indication of this first parameter in conjunction with the beam direction of the antenna pattern of N physical ports.

[0170] In one possible implementation, the beam direction of the antenna pattern of each of the N physical ports of the antenna array in each panel of the multi-panel is partially the same. This partial similarity means that the beam directions of the antenna patterns of the N physical ports are not entirely identical, i.e., partially different. For example, when N is 5, the antenna patterns of the first, second, and third physical ports are the same, while the antenna patterns of the fourth and fifth physical ports are different and distinct from the antenna patterns of the aforementioned three physical ports. Compared to having all N physical ports with identical beam directions, this design allows for a larger communication range.

[0171] In another possible implementation, the beam directions of the antenna patterns at each of the N physical ports of the antenna array in each panel of this multi-panel system are completely different. This complete difference means that the beam directions of the antenna patterns at all N physical ports are different. For example, when N is 5, the antenna patterns at the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth physical ports are all different. Compared to having all N physical ports with identical beam directions, this design allows for a greater communication range.

[0172] Of course, the beam direction of the antenna pattern of each physical port of the antenna array of each panel in the multi-panel can be exactly the same, and this scheme does not restrict this.

[0173] Based on the example of the antenna pattern of the above N physical ports, in one possible implementation, the first parameter corresponding to the above N physical ports indicates:

[0174] The index of the orthogonal beam group corresponding to each of the N physical ports, the beam combination index in the orthogonal beam group corresponding to each of the N physical ports, the first beam number in the orthogonal beam group selected by each physical port on the N physical ports, and the first beam is the beam in the orthogonal beam group selected by each physical port whose intensity is higher than the intensity of other beams in the orthogonal beam group.

[0175] The first beam can be understood as the strongest beam in the orthogonal beam group selected by each physical port.

[0176] Optionally, the network-side device may also send other configuration information. The following section describes these other configuration information sent by the network-side device.

[0177] In one possible implementation, the network-side device further sends second configuration information, which instructs the partial or separate reporting of first parameters corresponding to the N physical ports of the antenna array of each panel in the multi-panel setup. Accordingly, the terminal-side device receives the second configuration information. The terminal-side device reports the first parameters corresponding to the N physical ports of the antenna array of each panel in the multi-panel setup based on the reporting method indicated by the second configuration information.

[0178] The following section introduces several implementation methods for some of the reporting methods.

[0179] Implementation Method (1): This part of the reporting can focus on reporting the first parameter corresponding to certain specific physical ports among the N physical ports of the antenna array of each panel. The specific physical port can be a designated physical port (such as a predefined one or indicated by an indication message), such as the first physical port, the second physical port, and the fourth physical port. Alternatively, the specific physical port can also be a physical port that meets a certain condition. For example, for similar or identical first parameters obtained by measurement, one of them can be selected for reporting. For example, if the measured first parameters include 1.2, 1.21, 1.4, and 1.2, then only 1.2 and 1.4 will be reported.

[0180] Implementation method (2): When the network-side device indicates the data, it can indicate physical port groups, and the first parameters corresponding to the physical ports in the same group are reported uniformly. This grouping can be based on the beam direction of the physical ports, for example. For example, the first physical port, the second physical port, and the third physical port are grouped together, and the first parameters measured by each port include 1.2, 1.21, and 1.4. Then, the first parameters corresponding to the physical ports in this group are reported as 1.2, 1.21, and 1.4 when reporting.

[0181] Implementation method (3): This part of the reporting can be physical port grouping. The first parameter corresponding to the physical port in the same group is reported uniformly. Among them, for the first parameter that is similar or the same as the measured first parameter, one of them can be selected for reporting. For example, the first physical port, the second physical port and the third physical port are a group. The first parameters measured by each port include 1.2, 1.21 and 1.4. Then, the first parameter corresponding to the physical port in this group can be reported as 1.2 and 1.4.

[0182] Using partial reporting can save signaling overhead.

[0183] This separate reporting can be understood as reporting independently for each physical port. For example, the first parameter (#1 first parameter) for the first physical port, the first parameter (#2 first parameter) for the second physical port, and the first parameter (#3 first parameter) for the third physical port are reported separately. For instance, the first parameter (#1 first parameter) for the first physical port, the first parameter (#2 first parameter) for the second physical port, and the first parameter (#3 first parameter) for the third physical port are contained in different fields.

[0184] Optionally, partial information from the first parameter (#1 first parameter) corresponding to the first physical port, partial information from the first parameter (#2 first parameter) corresponding to the second physical port, and partial information from the first parameter (#3 first parameter) corresponding to the third physical port may be reported separately. This partial information may, for example, be a broadband beam selection index and / or a strongest beam index. For instance, the broadband beam selection index in the first parameter (#1 first parameter) corresponding to the first physical port, the broadband beam selection index in the first parameter (#2 first parameter) corresponding to the second physical port, and the broadband beam selection index in the first parameter (#3 first parameter) corresponding to the third physical port may be contained in different fields.

[0185] By reporting separately, we can intuitively understand the first parameter corresponding to each port.

[0186] For example, the second configuration information described above can be indicated by a single bit to indicate partial or separate reporting. For instance, this single bit can be 0 or 1. For example, 0 indicates partial reporting, and 1 indicates separate reporting; or, 1 indicates partial reporting, and 0 indicates separate reporting, etc.

[0187] In another possible implementation, the network-side device further sends third configuration information, which instructs the unified reporting of first parameters corresponding to the N physical ports of the antenna array of each panel in the multi-panel setup. Correspondingly, the terminal-side device receives this third configuration information. The terminal-side device reports the first parameters corresponding to the N physical ports of the antenna array of each panel in the multi-panel setup based on the reporting method indicated by the third configuration information.

[0188] This unified reporting can be understood as the sharing of some information in the first parameters corresponding to the N physical ports of the antenna array in each panel of the multi-panel system. This information may be, for example, a wideband beam selection index and / or a strongest beam index. Therefore, only one set of wideband beam selection indices and / or one strongest beam index needs to be reported. For example, the first parameters corresponding to the first physical port include parameters b1, c1, and d1; the first parameters corresponding to the second physical port include parameters b1, c2, and d2; and the first parameters corresponding to the third physical port include parameters b1, c3, and d3. The unified reporting could be, for example, reporting the first physical port, the second physical port, and the third physical port - parameter b1; the first physical port - parameters c1 and d1; the second physical port - parameters c2 and d2; and the third physical port - parameters c3 and d3. The "-" indicates "corresponding".

[0189] Using a unified reporting method can save signaling overhead.

[0190] For example, the aforementioned third configuration information can be uniformly reported using a single bit.

[0191] In another possible implementation, the network-side device further sends fourth configuration information, which instructs the partial, separate, or unified reporting of the first parameters corresponding to the N physical ports of the antenna array of each panel in the multi-panel setup. Accordingly, the terminal-side device receives this fourth configuration information.

[0192] For example, the aforementioned fourth configuration information can be reported uniformly using two bits. For example, 00 indicates partial reporting, 01 indicates separate reporting, and 10 indicates uniform reporting, etc. It is understood that this application does not limit the specific indication content corresponding to these two bits.

[0193] Optionally, if the network-side device does not send configuration information indicating the reporting method, the terminal-side device may use a unified reporting method to report.

[0194] For example, the terminal device may report the measurement results based on the reporting method indicated by the second configuration information, the third configuration information, or the fourth configuration information.

[0195] In one possible implementation, the network-side device obtains a codebook corresponding to the N physical ports based on the measurement results. For example, the network-side device determines a codebook adapted to the multi-port antenna array based on the measurement results and the N physical ports.

[0196] In one possible implementation, the antenna array is designed based on the characteristic mode theory. Each physical port of the antenna array corresponds to an antenna pattern, and the antenna patterns corresponding to different physical ports of the antenna array are orthogonal to each other.

[0197] Characteristic mode theory is an electromagnetic mode theory addressing electromagnetic radiation and scattering problems. Characteristic modes are independent of the external excitation source and can accurately describe the resonant characteristics of the electromagnetic target itself. Antenna radiation pattern, also called radiation pattern or far-field pattern, refers to the far-field spatial distribution of electromagnetic waves radiated by an excited antenna.

[0198] In this embodiment, the network-side device sends first configuration information, which includes the number N of physical ports supported by the antenna array of each panel in the multi-panel array, where N is an integer greater than or equal to 2. Then, the terminal-side device sends measurement results, which include first parameters corresponding to the N physical ports supported by the antenna array of each panel in the multi-panel array, thus enabling the acquisition / generation of a codebook adapted to the multi-port antenna array.

[0199] The communication method provided in this application will be described in detail below with reference to Examples 1-3.

[0200] Example 1

[0201] Referring to Figure 4, a flowchart illustrating a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application is shown. This example describes the case of Mode 1 of a Type I multi-panel codebook (where a precoding matrix is ​​independently designed for the physical port of each panel, and the precoding matrix of all panels is constructed using inter-panel compensation factors). The communication method shown in Figure 4 may include steps 401-405. Steps 401-405 are as follows:

[0202] 401. The network-side device sends a CSI-RS. Correspondingly, the terminal-side device receives the CSI-RS.

[0203] For example, the network-side device configures CSI-RS on the physical layer resource block.

[0204] 402. The network-side device sends configuration information, including the CSI reporting cycle and codebook configuration, etc. Correspondingly, the terminal-side device receives this configuration information.

[0205] The CSI reporting cycle refers to the time period during which terminal devices provide feedback on PMI.

[0206] For example, the codebook configuration may include one or more of the following parameters: the number of antenna panels, the number of antenna elements in the horizontal direction of the antenna array, the number of antenna elements in the vertical direction of the antenna array, the number of sub-bands, the number of phase alphabets, and the number N of physical ports supported by the antenna elements of each panel in the multi-panel configuration, where N is an integer greater than or equal to 2. Optionally, the network-side device sends the above-mentioned codebook configuration parameters through CSI report configuration signaling and codebook configuration signaling.

[0207] Understandably, the order of steps 401 and 402 can be interchanged; this solution does not impose any restrictions on the execution order.

[0208] 403. The terminal-side device measures the CSI-RS according to the above configuration information and reports the measurement results to the network-side device. Accordingly, the network-side device receives the measurement results.

[0209] For example, the measurement results may include one or more of the following parameters: Rank Indicator, Layer Indicator, CSI-RS Resource Indicator, Channel Quality Information, and Precoding Matrix Indicator of Type I Multi-Panel Codebook. The precoding matrix indicator includes one or more of the following parameters: (1) Wideband Beam Selection Index (which includes a first-dimensional wideband beam selection index and a second-dimensional wideband beam selection index); (2) Strongest Beam Index; (3) Wideband Amplitude Coefficient Index; (4) A first parameter indicator corresponding to the N physical ports supported by the antenna array of each panel in the multi-panel, representing the phase combining factor of N-1 physical ports of the N physical ports of the antenna array of each panel in the multi-panel relative to a first physical port, where the first physical port is any one of the N physical ports of the antenna array of each panel in the multi-panel. Optionally, the terminal device reports the measurement results via CSI-ReportConfig signaling. Understandably, the measurement results include the first parameter corresponding to the N physical ports supported by the antenna elements of each panel in the multi-panel array, which is included in the aforementioned precoding matrix indicator PMI.

[0210] 404. The network-side device determines the codebook adapted to the multi-port antenna array based on the above measurement results.

[0211] For example, taking a multi-panel array with 4 panels as an example, the Mode 1 configuration W of the Type I multi-panel codebook for a multi-port antenna array can be represented as follows:

[0212] Among them, W i panel This represents the precoding matrix of the i-th panel; Type I single-panel codebooks use 2D-DFT vectors to describe the spatial information (directional information) of the selected beam. Phase merging factor is used to describe the phase information of different layers. For example, i 2,1 i 2,2 ,…,i 2,N-1 These represent the phase combining factors of physical ports 2, 3, and N relative to physical port 1, respectively; the dimension of W1 is N; B = [b0, b1, ..., b L-1 ] represents a beam in a space of L two-dimensional DFT beams; v l The horizontal DFT weight vector, u m The vertical DFT weight vector represents the weight vector; W3 represents the compensation factor between multiple panels. It is the compensation factor for the i-th panel; P CSI-RS Indicates the number of CSI-RS antenna ports.

[0213] 405. Data transmission occurs between the network-side device and the terminal-side device.

[0214] Data processing and transmission between the network-side device and the terminal-side device are based on the aforementioned codebook.

[0215] To verify the performance of multi-port antennas and arrays using Type I multi-panel codebooks in wireless communication systems, the radiation patterns of multi-port antenna elements or arrays and dual-polarized antenna elements or arrays were first simulated using full-wave simulation. The radiation patterns were then exported to a system simulation platform for system simulation. The following comparison of the system performance of a three-port antenna array under ideal feedback and Type I single-panel codebook (a special case of Type I multi-panel codebook) with that of a dual-polarized antenna array under ideal feedback and Type I single-panel codebook demonstrates the performance advantages of multi-port antenna codebooks.

[0216] First, to evaluate the performance of the multi-port antenna codebook, system performance simulation was performed based on the method of generating a precoding matrix using ideal feedback. The throughput of dual-polarized antenna and multi-port antenna systems was compared. Then, simulations of the same scenario were performed based on the existing Type I codebook and the codebook of this scheme. The performance improvement space of the multi-port antenna under the Type I codebook of this scheme was compared, as well as the gain space of the multi-port antenna relative to the dual-polarized antenna under ideal feedback.

[0217] The base station uses an 8x4 dual-polarized or three-port antenna array, while the terminal uses a 1x2 dual-polarized antenna array. The radiation patterns of both antenna arrays were input into the system simulation platform. The channel model selected was the 3GPP-38.901-Uma-NloS channel, with three sectors, each sector having a 120° angle, 20 users per sector, a center frequency of 800MHz, a carrier bandwidth of 20MHz, a base station height of 25 meters, a user height of 1.5 meters, and randomly generated user positions. The antenna driving mode was 1-to-4 in the vertical direction. The simulation results are shown in Table 1 below. Under ideal feedback, the multi-port antenna has a 13% higher system performance than the dual-polarized antenna; under the existing Type I codebook, the multi-port antenna has a 20% lower system performance than the dual-polarized antenna; under this scheme, the multi-port antenna has a 7.7% higher system performance than the dual-polarized antenna, and the performance of the multi-port antenna in this scheme is 33% higher than that of the existing technology.

[0218] Table 1

[0219] Taking a three-port antenna as an example, with the support of this codebook, its system protection gain is significantly better than the throughput of traditional codebooks. Furthermore, after using this codebook, the system throughput of multi-port antennas is also higher than that of traditional dual-polarized antennas.

[0220] Example 2

[0221] Referring to Figure 4, this example describes the case of Mode 2 of a Type I multi-panel codebook (treating all antenna panels as a whole, first achieving beam selection, and then performing phase merging). This example uses the scenario where the multi-panel codebook includes a first panel and a second panel, with the first and second panels being any two panels from the multi-panel codebook. For other numbers of multi-panel codebooks, please refer to the description in this example; it will not be elaborated upon here.

[0222] The difference between Example 2 and Example 1 is that in step 403, the precoding matrix indication of the Type I multi-panel codebook in the measurement result includes one or more of the following parameters: (1) wideband beam selection index (which includes a first-dimensional wideband beam selection index and a second-dimensional wideband beam selection index); (2) strongest beam index; (3) wideband amplitude coefficient index; (4) phase combining factor of N-1 physical ports of the antenna array in the first panel relative to the first physical port, where the first physical port is any one of the N physical ports of the antenna array in the first panel; (5) phase combining factor of N-1 physical ports of the antenna array in the second panel relative to the second physical port, where the second physical port is any one of the N physical ports of the antenna array in the second panel; (6) wideband phase feedback information of the N physical ports of the antenna array in the second panel; (7) sub-band phase feedback information of the N physical ports of the antenna array in the second panel.

[0223] For example, taking a multi-panel array with 4 panels as an example, the Mode 2 configuration W of the Type I multi-panel codebook of the multi-port antenna array can be represented as follows:

[0224] Taking the case where the number of layers l is 1 as an example:

[0225] Where, N s N represents the number of layers. g Indicates the number of antenna panels; B i c represents the beam (group) in a polarization direction of the i-th panel. s The phase merging factor includes inter-panel and inter-polarity phases of layer s; byi 2,0,q Feedback indicates phase compensation between different physical ports of the first panel; byi 1,4,q (q=1,2,…,N) feedback represents the broadband phase feedback information of the N physical ports of the antenna array of the second panel; byi 2,q (q=1,2,…,N) feedback represents the sub-band phase feedback information of the N physical ports of the antenna array on the second panel.

[0226] Using this scheme, the system's anti-gain is significantly better than the throughput of traditional codebooks. Furthermore, after using this codebook, the system throughput of the multi-port antenna is also higher than that of the traditional dual-polarized antenna.

[0227] Example 3

[0228] Referring to Figure 4, this example illustrates a case where each of the N physical ports of the antenna array in a multi-panel array has a different beam direction. This example 3 is applicable to mode 1 of the Type I multi-panel codebook shown in Example 1 above, and also to mode 2 of the Type I multi-panel codebook shown in Example 2 above.

[0229] In this example, when applied to Example 1 above, the difference between Example 3 and Example 1 is that in step 403, the precoding matrix indication of the Type I multi-panel codebook in the measurement result further includes one or more of the following parameters: (1) the orthogonal beam group index corresponding to each of the N physical ports of the antenna array of each panel in the multi-panel; (2) the beam combination index in the orthogonal beam group corresponding to each of the N physical ports of the antenna array of each panel in the multi-panel; (3) the first beam number in the orthogonal beam group selected by each physical port on the N physical ports of the antenna array of each panel in the multi-panel, wherein the first beam is the beam with a higher intensity than the other beams in the orthogonal beam group selected by each physical port. This first beam is also the strongest beam in the orthogonal beam group selected by each physical port.

[0230] Similarly, when this Example 3 is applied to Example 2 above, the difference between it and Example 2 is that: in step 403, the precoding matrix indication of the Type I multi-panel codebook in the measurement result also includes one or more of the following parameters: (1) the orthogonal beam group index corresponding to each of the N physical ports of the antenna array of each panel in the multi-panel; (2) the beam combination index in the orthogonal beam group corresponding to each of the N physical ports of the antenna array of each panel in the multi-panel; (3) the first beam number in the orthogonal beam group selected by each physical port on the N physical ports of the antenna array of each panel in the multi-panel, wherein the first beam is the beam with a higher intensity than the other beams in the orthogonal beam group selected by each physical port.

[0231] For example, Figure 5 shows a schematic diagram of the radiation direction of a three-port antenna. The strongest radiation directions of the three ports of this antenna correspond to three different directions: F1 (θ = 10°, φ = 0°), F2 (θ = 10°, φ = 120°), and F3 (θ = 10°, φ = 240°). That is, this three-port antenna has the same beam angle in the elevation direction and the same beam angle in the horizontal direction. Different beam slant angles.

[0232] This example illustrates the case where each of the N physical ports has a different beam direction. It is understood that the beam directions of the N physical ports can also be partially the same or completely different, and the above scheme applies to all of them. This scheme does not impose any restrictions on this.

[0233] For example, W1 in the Type I multi-panel codebook of a multi-port antenna array can be represented as follows:

[0234] Among them, B n This represents the wave array obtained from the feedback of the nth (1≤n≤N) physical port.

[0235] This solution can be applied to various types of multiport antennas, supplementing the description of multiport antenna codebooks in the protocol, and is also backward compatible with existing dual-polarized antenna codebooks. Compared to antennas with N physical ports having completely identical beam directions, the above design can achieve a greater communication range.

[0236] It should be noted that, in the various embodiments of this application, unless otherwise specified or in case of logical conflict, the terms and / or descriptions between the various embodiments are consistent and can be referenced by each other. The technical features in different embodiments can be combined to form new embodiments according to their inherent logical relationship.

[0237] The methods of the embodiments of this application have been described in detail above, and the apparatus of the embodiments of this application is provided below. It is understood that the division of multiple units or modules in the various apparatus embodiments of this application is only a logical division based on function and is not intended to limit the specific structure of the apparatus. In specific implementations, some functional modules may be subdivided into more smaller functional modules, and some functional modules may be combined into a single functional module. However, regardless of whether these functional modules are subdivided or combined, the general flow executed by the apparatus is the same. For example, some apparatuses include a receiving unit and a transmitting unit. In some designs, the transmitting unit and the receiving unit can also be integrated into a communication unit, which can implement the functions implemented by the receiving unit and the transmitting unit. Typically, each unit corresponds to its own program code (or program instructions). When the program code corresponding to each unit runs on the processor, it causes the unit to be controlled by the processing unit to execute the corresponding flow and thus achieve the corresponding function.

[0238] This application also provides an apparatus for implementing any of the above methods. For example, a communication apparatus is provided that includes a module (or means) for implementing the steps performed by the terminal-side device in any of the above methods.

[0239] For example, referring to FIG6, which is a schematic diagram of a communication device provided in an embodiment of this application, the communication device is used to implement the aforementioned communication method, such as the communication method shown in FIG3 or FIG4.

[0240] As shown in Figure 6, the device may include a communication module 601, as detailed below:

[0241] The communication module 601 is used to receive first configuration information, which includes the number N of physical ports supported by the antenna array of each panel in the multi-panel, where N is an integer greater than or equal to 2.

[0242] The communication module 601 is also used to transmit measurement results, which include the first parameters corresponding to the N physical ports supported by the antenna array of each panel in the multi-panel.

[0243] In one possible implementation, the communication module 601 is further configured to receive second configuration information, which indicates that the first parameters corresponding to the N physical ports of the antenna array of each panel in the multi-panel are reported or reported separately.

[0244] In another possible implementation, the communication module 601 is also used to receive third configuration information, which indicates the first parameters corresponding to the N physical ports of the antenna array of each panel in the multi-panel unified reporting.

[0245] In another possible implementation, the communication module 601 is further configured to receive fourth configuration information, which indicates that the first parameters corresponding to the N physical ports of the antenna array of each panel in the multi-panel are reported separately or uniformly.

[0246] In one possible implementation, a processing module is also included for acquiring the measurement result based on the downlink reference signal.

[0247] In one possible implementation, the communication module 601 is also used to send the measurement result.

[0248] For a description of each of the above modules, please refer to the description in the foregoing embodiments, which will not be repeated here.

[0249] This application also provides an apparatus for implementing any of the above methods. For example, a communication apparatus is provided that includes a module (or means) for implementing the steps performed by the network-side apparatus in any of the above methods.

[0250] For example, referring to FIG7, which is a schematic diagram of a communication device provided in an embodiment of this application, the communication device is used to implement the aforementioned communication method, such as the communication method shown in FIG3 or FIG4.

[0251] As shown in Figure 7, the device may include a communication module 701, as detailed below:

[0252] The communication module 701 is used to send first configuration information, which includes the number N of physical ports supported by the antenna array of each panel in the multi-panel, where N is an integer greater than or equal to 2.

[0253] The communication module 701 is also used to receive measurement results, which include the first parameters corresponding to the N physical ports supported by the antenna array of each panel in the multi-panel.

[0254] In one possible implementation, the communication module 701 is further configured to send second configuration information, which indicates that the first parameters corresponding to the N physical ports of the antenna array of each panel in the multi-panel are reported or reported separately.

[0255] In another possible implementation, the communication module 701 is also used to send third configuration information, which indicates the first parameters corresponding to the N physical ports of the antenna array of each panel in the multi-panel to be uniformly reported.

[0256] In another possible implementation, the communication module 701 is also used to send fourth configuration information, which indicates that the first parameters corresponding to the N physical ports of the antenna array of each panel in the multi-panel are reported in part, separately, or uniformly.

[0257] In one possible implementation, the communication module 701 is also used to receive the measurement result.

[0258] For a description of each of the above modules, please refer to the description in the foregoing embodiments, which will not be repeated here.

[0259] It should be understood that the division of modules in the above devices is only a logical functional division. In actual implementation, they can be fully or partially integrated into a single physical entity, or they can be physically separated. Furthermore, modules in a communication device can be implemented by a processor calling software; for example, a communication device includes a processor connected to a memory containing instructions. The processor calls the instructions stored in the memory to implement any of the above methods or to implement the functions of each module in the device. The processor can be, for example, a general-purpose processor, such as a central processing unit (CPU) or a microprocessor, and the memory can be internal or external to the device. Alternatively, the modules in the device can be implemented as hardware circuits. The functionality of some or all units can be achieved through the design of these hardware circuits, which can be understood as one or more processors. For example, in one implementation, the hardware circuit is an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), and the functionality of some or all of the above units is achieved through the design of the logical relationships between the components within the circuit. In another implementation, the hardware circuit can be implemented using a programmable logic device (PLD), such as a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), which can include a large number of logic gates. The connection relationships between the logic gates are configured through configuration files, thereby achieving the functionality of some or all of the above units. All modules of the above device can be implemented entirely through processor-called software, entirely through hardware circuits, or partially through processor-called software with the remaining parts implemented through hardware circuits.

[0260] Referring to FIG8, a hardware structure diagram of another communication device provided in an embodiment of this application is shown. The communication device 800 shown in FIG8 includes one or more processors 801 (a processor is illustrated in the figure).

[0261] Processor 801 is a circuit with signal processing capabilities. In one implementation, processor 801 can be a circuit with instruction read and execute capabilities, such as a central processing unit (CPU), microprocessor, graphics processing unit (GPU) (which can be understood as a type of microprocessor), or digital signal processor (DSP). In another implementation, processor 801 can achieve certain functions through the logical relationships of hardware circuits. These logical relationships of hardware circuits are fixed or reconfigurable. For example, processor 801 can be a hardware circuit implemented as an ASIC or a programmable logic device (PLD), such as an FPGA. In reconfigurable hardware circuits, the process of the processor loading a configuration document and configuring the hardware circuit can be understood as the processor loading instructions to achieve the functions of some or all of the above modules. Furthermore, it can also be a hardware circuit designed for artificial intelligence, which can be understood as a type of ASIC, such as a neural network processing unit (NPU), tensor processing unit (TPU), or deep learning processing unit (DPU). The processor 801 is used to execute related programs to implement the functions required by the units in the communication device of this application embodiment, or to execute the communication method of this application method embodiment.

[0262] Optionally, the communication device 800 may also include a memory (e.g., memory 803, memory 804, memory 805) (shown as dashed lines in the figure). This memory is used to store instructions executed by the processor 801, or to store input data required by the processor 801 to execute instructions, or to store data generated after the processor 801 executes instructions.

[0263] Optionally, the memory may be located within the one or more processors (e.g., memory 803), or outside the one or more processors (e.g., memory 804, memory 805), or may include a storage portion located within the one or more processors and a storage portion located outside the one or more processors.

[0264] In this embodiment, the memory (e.g., memory 803, memory 804, memory 805) may include, but is not limited to, cache, read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), synchronous dynamic random access memory (SDRAM), hard disk drive (HDD) or solid-state drive (SSD), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), or compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), etc. Memory is any other medium capable of carrying or storing desired program code having an instruction or data structure form and accessible by a computer, but is not limited thereto. The memory in this embodiment may also be a circuit or any other device capable of implementing storage functions for storing computer programs or instructions, and / or data.

[0265] Optionally, the communication device 800 may also include a communication interface 802 (shown as a dashed line in the figure). The processor 801 and the communication interface 802 are coupled to each other. The communication interface 802 may be a transceiver or interface circuit, bus, module, or other type of communication interface.

[0266] The memory can store programs. When the program stored in the memory is executed by the processor 801, the processor 801 and the communication interface 802 are used to execute the various steps of the communication method of the embodiments of this application.

[0267] As can be seen, each module in the above device can be one or more processors (or processing circuits) configured to implement the above methods, such as: CPU, GPU, NPU, TPU, DPU, microprocessor, DSP, ASIC, FPGA, or a combination of at least two of these processor forms or a portion of the processing circuits in these processors.

[0268] Furthermore, the modules in the above devices can be integrated in whole or in part, or they can be implemented independently. In one implementation, these modules are integrated together as a system-on-a-chip (SOC). The SOC may include at least one processor for implementing any of the above methods or for implementing the functions of the modules of the device. The at least one processor may be of different types, such as CPU and FPGA, CPU and artificial intelligence processor, CPU and GPU, etc.

[0269] It should be noted that although the device 800 shown in Figure 8 only illustrates the memory, processor, and communication interface, those skilled in the art should understand that in specific implementations, device 800 may also include other devices necessary for normal operation. Furthermore, depending on specific needs, those skilled in the art should understand that device 800 may also include hardware devices for implementing other additional functions. Moreover, those skilled in the art should understand that device 800 may only include the devices necessary for implementing the embodiments of this application, and not necessarily all the devices shown in Figure 8.

[0270] This application also provides a computer-readable storage medium storing instructions that, when executed on a computer or processor, cause the computer or processor to perform one or more steps of any of the above methods.

[0271] This application also provides a computer program product containing instructions. When the computer program product is run on a computer or processor, it causes the computer or processor to perform one or more steps of any of the methods described above.

[0272] It is understood that in this application, "instruction" can include direct instruction, indirect instruction, explicit instruction, and implicit instruction. When describing a certain instruction information to indicate A, it can be understood that the instruction information carries A, directly indicates A, or indirectly indicates A. In this application, the information indicated by the instruction information is called the information to be instructed. In specific implementation, there are many ways to indicate the information to be instructed, such as, but not limited to, directly indicating the information to be instructed, such as the information to be instructed itself or its index, or indirectly indicating the information to be instructed by indicating other information, wherein there is an association between the other information and the information to be instructed. It is also possible to indicate only a part of the information to be instructed, while the other parts of the information to be instructed are known or agreed upon in advance. For example, the instruction of specific information can also be achieved by using the arrangement order of various information in advance (e.g., as specified by a protocol), thereby reducing the instruction overhead to a certain extent. The information to be instructed can be sent as a whole or divided into multiple sub-information to be sent separately, and the sending period and / or sending time of these sub-information can be the same or different. This application does not limit the specific sending method. The sending period and / or timing of these sub-information messages can be predefined, for example, according to a protocol, or configured by the transmitting device by sending configuration information to the receiving device.

[0273] It should be understood that in the description of this application, unless otherwise stated, " / " indicates that the objects before and after it are in an "or" relationship. For example, A / B can represent A or B; 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 single or multiple. Additionally, to facilitate a clear description of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, the terms "first" and "second" are used in the embodiments of this application to distinguish identical or similar items with substantially the same function and effect. Those skilled in the art will understand that the terms "first" and "second" do not limit the quantity or execution order, and the terms "first" and "second" do not necessarily imply difference. In this application, the terms "exemplary" or "for example" are used to indicate that something is an example, illustration, or description. Any embodiment or design described as "exemplary" or "for example" in this application should not be construed as being better or more advantageous than other embodiments or designs. Specifically, the use of terms such as "exemplary" or "for example" is intended to present the relevant concepts in a specific manner to facilitate understanding.

[0274] In the embodiments provided in this application, it should be understood that the disclosed systems, apparatuses, and methods can be implemented in other ways. For example, the division of units is merely a logical functional division, and in actual implementation, there may be other division methods. For instance, multiple units or components may be combined or integrated into another system, or some features may be ignored or not executed. The coupling, direct coupling, or communication connection shown or discussed between each other may be indirect coupling or communication connection through some interfaces, apparatuses, or units, and may be electrical, mechanical, or other forms.

[0275] The units described as separate components may or may not be physically separate. The components shown as units may or may not be physical units; that is, they may be located in one place or distributed across multiple network units. Some or all of the units can be selected to achieve the purpose of this embodiment according to actual needs.

[0276] 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. This computer program product includes one or more computer instructions. When these computer program instructions are loaded and executed on a computer, all or part of the flow or function according to the embodiments of this application is 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 or transmitted through a computer-readable storage medium. 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 (DSL)) 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 media can be read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), or magnetic media, such as floppy disks, hard disks, magnetic tapes, magnetic disks, or optical media, such as digital versatile discs (DVDs), or semiconductor media, such as solid-state disks (SSDs).

Claims

1. A communication method characterized by comprising: include: Receive first configuration information, the first configuration information including the number of physical ports N supported by the antenna array of each panel in the multi-panel, where N is an integer greater than or equal to 2; Send measurement results, which include the first parameters corresponding to the N physical ports supported by the antenna array of each panel in the multi-panel array.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein, The first parameter is included in the precoding matrix indicator PMI; or, the first parameter is included in other information.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The first parameter corresponding to the N physical ports supported by the antenna array of each panel in the multi-panel indicates the phase combining factor of N-1 physical ports of the N physical ports of the antenna array of each panel in the multi-panel relative to the first physical port, where the first physical port is any one of the N physical ports of the antenna array of each panel in the multi-panel.

4. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The multi-panel structure includes at least a first panel and a second panel, wherein the first panel and the second panel are any two panels in the multi-panel structure; the first parameter indication corresponding to the N physical ports supported by the antenna elements of each panel in the multi-panel structure is as follows: The phase combining factor of the N-1 physical ports of the antenna array in the first panel relative to the first physical port, wherein the first physical port is any one of the N physical ports of the antenna array in the first panel; The phase combining factor of the N-1 physical ports of the antenna array in the second panel relative to the second physical port, where the second physical port is any one of the N physical ports of the antenna array in the second panel; Broadband phase feedback information of the N physical ports of the antenna array of the second panel; The sub-band phase feedback information of the N physical ports of the antenna array of the second panel.

5. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, In the multi-panel array, the beam direction portion of the antenna pattern of each physical port of the antenna array of each panel may be the same or completely different.

6. The method of claim 5, wherein, The first parameter indication corresponding to the N physical ports supported by the antenna array of each panel in the multi-panel configuration: The orthogonal beam group index corresponding to each of the N physical ports of the antenna array of each panel in the multi-panel, the beam combination index in the orthogonal beam group corresponding to each of the N physical ports of the antenna array of each panel in the multi-panel, the first beam number in the orthogonal beam group selected by each physical port of the N physical ports of the antenna array of each panel in the multi-panel, wherein the first beam is the beam in the orthogonal beam group selected by each physical port whose intensity is higher than that of other beams in the orthogonal beam group.

7. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The method further includes: Receive second configuration information, the second configuration information indicating that the first parameters corresponding to the N physical ports of the antenna array of each panel in the multi-panel are reported or reported separately.

8. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The method further includes: Receive third configuration information, which indicates that the first parameters corresponding to the N physical ports of the antenna array of each panel in the multi-panel should be reported uniformly.

9. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The method further includes: Receive fourth configuration information, which indicates that the first parameters corresponding to the N physical ports of the antenna array of each panel in the multi-panel are reported separately or uniformly.

10. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that, The antenna array is designed based on the characteristic mode theory. Each physical port of the antenna array corresponds to an antenna pattern, and the antenna patterns corresponding to different physical ports of the antenna array are orthogonal to each other.

11. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that, The acquisition of measurement results specifically includes: The measurement results are obtained based on the downlink reference signal.

12. The method of claim 10, wherein, The downlink reference signal includes any one of the following: Channel State Information Reference Signal (CSI-RS), Demodulation Reference Signal (DMRS), Cell Reference Signal (CRS), Follower Reference Signal (TRS), Position Reference Signal (PRS), and Phase Follower Reference Signal (PTRS).

13. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that, The method further includes: Send the measurement results.

14. A communication method, comprising: include: Send first configuration information, which includes the number of physical ports N supported by the antenna array of each panel in the multi-panel, where N is an integer greater than or equal to 2; The measurement results are received, and the measurement results include the first parameters corresponding to the N physical ports supported by the antenna array of each panel in the multi-panel.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein, The first parameter is included in the precoding matrix indicator PMI; or, the first parameter is included in other information.

16. The method according to claim 14 or 15, characterized in that The first parameter corresponding to the N physical ports supported by the antenna array of each panel in the multi-panel indicates the phase combining factor of N-1 physical ports of the N physical ports of the antenna array of each panel in the multi-panel relative to the first physical port, where the first physical port is any one of the N physical ports of the antenna array of each panel in the multi-panel.

17. The method of claim 14 or 15, wherein, The multi-panel configuration includes at least a first panel and a second panel, wherein the first panel and the second panel are any two panels in the multi-panel configuration; the first parameter corresponding to the N physical ports indicates: The phase combining factor of the N-1 physical ports of the antenna array in the first panel relative to the first physical port, wherein the first physical port is any one of the N physical ports of the antenna array in the first panel; The phase combining factor of the N-1 physical ports of the antenna array in the second panel relative to the second physical port, where the second physical port is any one of the N physical ports of the antenna array in the second panel; Broadband phase feedback information of the N physical ports of the antenna array of the second panel; The sub-band phase feedback information of the N physical ports of the antenna array of the second panel.

18. The method according to any one of claims 14 to 17, characterized in that, In the multi-panel array, the beam direction portion of the antenna pattern of each physical port of the antenna array of each panel may be the same or completely different.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein, The first parameter indication corresponding to the N physical ports supported by the antenna array of each panel in the multi-panel configuration: The orthogonal beam group index corresponding to each of the N physical ports of the antenna array of each panel in the multi-panel, the beam combination index in the orthogonal beam group corresponding to each of the N physical ports of the antenna array of each panel in the multi-panel, the first beam number in the orthogonal beam group selected by each physical port of the N physical ports of the antenna array of each panel in the multi-panel, wherein the first beam is the beam in the orthogonal beam group selected by each physical port whose intensity is higher than that of other beams in the orthogonal beam group.

20. The method according to any one of claims 14 to 19, characterized in that, The method further includes: Send second configuration information, which indicates that the first parameters corresponding to the N physical ports of the antenna array of each panel in the multi-panel are reported or reported separately.

21. The method according to any one of claims 14 to 17, characterized in that, The method further includes: Send third configuration information, which indicates that the first parameters corresponding to the N physical ports of the antenna array of each panel in the multi-panel should be reported uniformly.

22. The method according to any one of claims 14 to 19, characterized in that, The method further includes: Send fourth configuration information, which indicates that the first parameters corresponding to the N physical ports of the antenna array of each panel in the multi-panel are reported separately or uniformly.

23. A communications device, characterized by The apparatus includes a processor for executing a computer program or instructions to cause the method of any one of claims 1-13 to be implemented, or the method of any one of claims 14-22 to be implemented.

24. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein, The device further includes a memory that stores the computer program or instructions.

25. A computer readable storage medium having stored thereon a computer program or instructions, characterized in that, When the computer program or instructions are executed, the method as described in any one of claims 1-13 is implemented, or the method as described in any one of claims 14-22 is implemented.

26. A computer program product, characterised in that, The computer program product includes a computer program or instructions that, when executed, implement the method as described in any one of claims 1-13, or the method as described in any one of claims 14-22.

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