Communication method and related apparatus

Abstract

The present application provides a communication method and a related apparatus. In a store and forward mode of an NTN network, a satellite / an NTN network device on a satellite may provide a terminal device with a satellite list having store and forward services. As a UE is in the store and forward mode, the UE may calculate, on the basis of the satellite list, time of arrival of satellites that can provide the store service, and may further access the satellites to perform data transmission. Thus, the UE may calculate, on the basis of the satellite list for store and forward provided by the network device, the time of arrival of the satellites in the list. In an implementation, when in a low power consumption mode, the UE may exit the low power consumption mode at the time of arrival, and wake up devices to access a network, so as to reduce the number of wake-ups, and reduce the number of searches of the UE, thus reducing power consumption of the UE.

Description

A communication method and related apparatus

[0001] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202510123415.6, filed on January 24, 2025, entitled "A Communication Method and Related Apparatus", the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

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

[0003] In store-and-forward (S&F) mode of a non-terrestrial network (NTN), the user equipment (UE) establishes a connection with a satellite. During data transmission from the UE to the satellite, the connection may be lost due to satellite movement, interrupting the data transmission. In this situation, the UE needs to re-search for and re-establish a connection with the satellite. If the satellite found by the UE does not provide S&F services, the search is invalid. Furthermore, because the UE's data transmission is not yet complete, it needs to continue searching for satellites, resulting in higher power consumption for the UE. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The communication method and related apparatus provided in this application embodiment can reduce the number of network searches by the terminal and reduce the power consumption of the terminal device in the store-and-forward mode of the NTN network.

[0005] Firstly, a communication method is provided. This method can be executed by a terminal device, or by a component (such as a circuit, chip, or chip system) configured in the terminal device, or by a logic module or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the terminal device. This application does not limit this method. The following description uses a terminal device as an example.

[0006] The method includes: in store-and-forward mode, receiving a resource configuration from a first non-terrestrial network (NTN) network device, wherein the resource configuration includes information about at least one NTN network device that supports store-and-forward;

[0007] Send a first request to a second NTN network device, wherein the first request is for accessing the second NTN network device, and the second NTN network device belongs to the at least one NTN network device;

[0008] Send the first uplink data to the second NTN network device.

[0009] In this method, the network side (e.g., a first NTN network device) can provide the terminal side with information about at least one second NTN network device that supports store-and-forward, enabling the terminal device in store-and-forward mode to quickly access the second NTN network device. Through a single random access process, a connection can be established between the terminal device and the second NTN network device, thereby enabling data transmission and reducing the number of network searches performed by the terminal and lowering its power consumption. Furthermore, the reduction in the number of searches can also reduce transmission overhead or signaling overhead.

[0010] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the resource configuration is carried in system message block SIB32.

[0011] In one possible scenario of the first aspect, the method further includes:

[0012] Send an attach request message to the first NTN network device;

[0013] Receive an attach rejection message from the first NTN network device.

[0014] In this method, in the network attachment scenario, under the store-and-forward mode of the NTN network, because the service link and the power supply link cannot exist simultaneously, the attachment process of the terminal device cannot be completed in one go. The first NTN network device can send an attach rejection message to the terminal device. After receiving the attach rejection message, the terminal device can know that the network registration has failed. Then, the terminal device can search for a second NTN network device that can provide store-and-forward based on the resource configuration carried in SIB32, and then access the second NTN network device to perform data transmission, thereby reducing the number of network searches by the terminal and reducing the power consumption of the terminal device.

[0015] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the resource configuration is carried in a connection release message, which indicates that the connection between the first NTN network device and the terminal device is disconnected.

[0016] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the method further includes:

[0017] Send the second uplink data to the first NTN network device.

[0018] In this method, in the reconnection scenario, under store-and-forward mode, the movement of the first NTN network device may cause the connection between the terminal device and the first NTN network device to be about to be disconnected. In the case of impending disconnection, the first NTN network device can send a connection release message to the terminal device. The resource configuration is carried in the connection release message. After receiving the connection release message, the terminal device can know that the connection is about to be disconnected, and search for a second NTN network device that can provide store-and-forward based on the resource configuration carried in the connection release message. Then, it can access the second NTN network device to perform data transmission, thereby reducing the number of network searches by the terminal and reducing the power consumption of the terminal device.

[0019] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, sending the first random access request to the second NTN network device includes:

[0020] The first moment of the second NTN network device is calculated based on the resource configuration, wherein the first moment is used to indicate the time when the second NTN network device arrives at the location area of ​​the terminal device;

[0021] At the first moment, a first random access request is sent to the second NTN network device.

[0022] In one scenario, the terminal device is in a low-power mode. Upon calculating the first moment when the second NTN network device is located, the terminal device can be woken up to perform sleep-state tasks, such as searching for the network of the second NTN network device, obtaining system messages, receiving network paging, etc. After connecting to the second NTN network device, data transmission is performed, thereby reducing the number of invalid wake-ups and lowering the power consumption of the terminal device. In the embodiments of this application, the low-power mode can be referred to as sleep state / idle state / sleep state / standby state, etc.

[0023] Secondly, a communication method is provided, which can be executed by a network device, or by a component (such as a circuit, chip, or chip system) configured in the network device, or by a logic module or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the network device. This application does not limit this. The following description uses a network device as an example.

[0024] The method includes: determining a resource configuration, wherein the resource configuration includes information on at least one NTN network device that supports store-and-forward;

[0025] The resource configuration is sent to the terminal device, wherein the resource configuration is used by the terminal device to send first uplink data to a second NTN network device, the second NTN network device belonging to the at least one NTN network device.

[0026] In this method, the network side can flexibly set / update satellite information (i.e., resource configuration) that provides store-and-forward services to terminal devices based on the deployment of NTN network devices. This allows for more precise resource configuration to be issued to terminal devices based on network side instructions, helping terminal devices in the store-and-forward mode of the NTN network to access NTN network devices that provide store-and-forward services more quickly, thereby reducing the number of network searches performed by the terminal and lowering the power consumption of the terminal devices.

[0027] In one possible implementation of the second aspect, the resource configuration is carried in system message block 32.

[0028] In one possible scenario of the second aspect, the method further includes:

[0029] Receive an attach request message from the terminal device;

[0030] Send an attach rejection message to the terminal device.

[0031] In one possible implementation of the second aspect, the resource configuration is carried in a connection release message, which indicates that the connection between the first NTN network device and the terminal device is disconnected.

[0032] In one possible scenario of the second aspect, the method further includes:

[0033] Receive second uplink data from the terminal device.

[0034] Thirdly, embodiments of this application provide a communication device, which can be a terminal device or a device or functional module in a terminal device, wherein:

[0035] The communication device includes a module for performing the method described in the first aspect or any possible implementation thereof;

[0036] Alternatively, the communication device includes a processor for performing the method described in the first aspect or any possible implementation thereof.

[0037] Fourthly, embodiments of this application provide a communication device, which can be a network device or a component or functional module within a network device, wherein:

[0038] The communication device includes a module for performing the method described in the second aspect or any possible implementation thereof;

[0039] Alternatively, the communication device includes a processor for performing the method described in the second aspect or any possible implementation thereof.

[0040] Fifthly, embodiments of this application provide a communication device, characterized in that it includes a logic circuit and an interface, wherein the logic circuit and the interface are coupled; the interface is used for inputting and / or outputting information, wherein:

[0041] The logic circuit is used to perform the method described in the first aspect or any possible implementation thereof, or...

[0042] The logic circuit is used to perform the method described in the second aspect or any possible implementation thereof.

[0043] Sixthly, embodiments of this application provide a computer-readable storage medium for storing a computer program, wherein:

[0044] When the computer program is executed, it is capable of implementing the first aspect or any possible implementation of the first aspect, or...

[0045] When the computer program is executed, it is capable of implementing the second aspect or any possible implementation of the second aspect.

[0046] Seventhly, embodiments of this application provide a communication system, which includes a terminal device and a network device, wherein:

[0047] The terminal device is used to execute the method described in the first aspect or any possible implementation thereof;

[0048] The network device is used to perform the method described in the second aspect or any possible implementation thereof.

[0049] In one scenario, the system includes a terminal device, a first NTN network device, and a second NTN network device;

[0050] In store-and-forward mode, the first NTN network device sends a resource configuration to the terminal device, wherein the resource configuration includes information about at least one NTN network device that supports store-and-forward.

[0051] The terminal device sends a first request to the second NTN network device, wherein the first request is used to access the second NTN network device, and the second NTN network device belongs to the at least one NTN network device;

[0052] The terminal device sends the first uplink data to the second NTN network device;

[0053] The second NTN network device stores the first uplink data.

[0054] Eighthly, embodiments of this application provide a computer program that, when executed by a processor, causes a communication device including the processor to implement the method described in the first aspect or any possible implementation of the first aspect, or to implement the method described in the second aspect or any possible implementation of the second aspect.

[0055] Ninthly, embodiments of this application provide a chip system including logic circuitry (or, as understood, the chip system includes a processor, which may include logic circuitry, etc.) and input / output interfaces. The input / output interfaces can be used to receive messages or to send messages. For example, when the chip system is used to implement the functions of a communication device, the input / output interfaces can be used to receive first information. The input / output interfaces can be the same interface, i.e., the same interface can implement both sending and receiving functions; or, the input / output interfaces include an input interface and an output interface, where the input interface is used to implement the receiving function, i.e., to receive messages; and the output interface is used to implement the sending function, i.e., to send messages. The logic circuitry can be used to perform operations other than the sending and receiving functions described in the first aspect; the logic circuitry can also be used to transmit messages to the input / output interfaces or to receive messages from other communication devices from the input / output interfaces. The chip system can be used to implement the methods described in the first aspect or any possible implementation of the first aspect, or to implement the methods described in the second aspect or any possible implementation of the second aspect. The chip system can be composed of chips or can include chips and other discrete devices.

[0056] Optionally, the chip system may also include a memory, which can be used to store instructions, and the logic circuits can call the instructions stored in the memory to implement the corresponding functions.

[0057] It should be understood that the descriptions of technical features, technical solutions, beneficial effects, or similar language in this application do not imply that all features and advantages can be achieved in any single embodiment. Rather, it is understood that the description of a feature or beneficial effect means that a specific technical feature, technical solution, or beneficial effect is included in at least one embodiment. Therefore, the descriptions of technical features, technical solutions, or beneficial effects in this specification do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the technical features, technical solutions, and beneficial effects described in this embodiment can be combined in any suitable manner. Those skilled in the art will understand that embodiments can be implemented without one or more specific technical features, technical solutions, or beneficial effects of a particular embodiment. In other embodiments, additional technical features and beneficial effects may be identified in specific embodiments that do not embody all embodiments. Attached Figure Description

[0058] The accompanying drawings used in the embodiments of this application are described below.

[0059] Figure 1A is a schematic diagram of a satellite communication system provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0060] Figure 1B is a schematic diagram of a satellite communication system provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0061] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the signaling interaction process in the store-and-forward mode of an NTN network provided by an embodiment of this application;

[0062] Figure 3 is a flowchart illustrating a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0063] Figure 4 is a flowchart illustrating another communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0064] Figure 5 is a flowchart illustrating another communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0065] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a communication device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0066] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of another communication device provided in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0067] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this application clearer, the embodiments of this application will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0068] In this application, the terms "system" and "network" are used interchangeably. Unless otherwise stated, " / " indicates that the objects before and after are in an "or" relationship; for example, A / B can mean A or B. "And / or" in this application merely describes the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A alone, A and B simultaneously, or B alone, where A and B can be singular or plural. Furthermore, in the description of this application, unless otherwise stated, "multiple" refers to two or more. "At least one of the following" or similar expressions refer to any combination of these items, including any combination of single or plural items. For example, at least one of a, b, or c can represent: a, b, c, ab, ac, bc, or abc, where a, b, and c can be one or more. Furthermore, to facilitate a clear description of the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application, the terms "first" and "second" are used in the embodiments of this application to distinguish between network elements and similar items with essentially the same function. Those skilled in the art will understand that the terms "first" and "second" do not limit the quantity or execution order, and that the terms "first" and "second" are not necessarily different.

[0069] References such as "in one implementation," "exemplarily," or "in one implementation" as described in the embodiments of this application mean that one or more embodiments of this application include a specific feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment. Therefore, phrases such as "in one embodiment," "in some embodiments," "in other embodiments," "in still other embodiments," etc., appearing in different parts of this specification do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, but rather mean "one or more, but not all, embodiments," unless otherwise specifically emphasized. The terms "comprising," "including," "having," and variations thereof mean "including but not limited to," unless otherwise specifically emphasized.

[0070] The following detailed embodiments further illustrate the objectives, technical solutions, and beneficial effects of this application. It should be understood that the following are merely specific embodiments of this application and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of this application. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made based on the technical solutions of this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application.

[0071] In the various embodiments of this application, unless otherwise specified or in case of logical conflict, the terminology and / or descriptions between different embodiments are consistent and can be referenced by each other. Technical features in different embodiments can be combined to form new embodiments based on their inherent logical relationships.

[0072] The embodiments of this application are applied to communication systems, which can be second-generation (2G) communication systems, third-generation (3G) communication systems, fourth-generation (4G) communication systems, such as long-term evolution (LTE) communication systems, fifth-generation (5G) communication systems, such as 5G new radio (NR) communication systems, LTE and 5G hybrid architectures, or future evolution communication systems, etc.

[0073] In one scenario, please refer to Figure 1A, which is a schematic diagram of a satellite communication system provided in an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 1A, the satellite communication system includes a first device 11 and a second device 12. The first device 11 can be a network-side device used to provide network communication functions, and is sometimes also referred to as a network device or network element. Exemplarily, the network device has a device or module with corresponding communication functions. The network device is usually equipped with a communication module, circuit, or chip that performs the corresponding communication function. The network device is also configured with program instructions for performing the corresponding communication function and corresponding program instructions. As an example, the network device can usually be a base station (including functional units of a base station, or a combination of functional units of a base station) or a core network unit, wherein the core network unit can be a functional unit in the core network, including but not limited to an Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) unit and a Session Management Function (SMF) unit. The second device can be a device accessing the network, and is usually a terminal device. As an example, the first device 11 shown in Figure 1A can be a terminal device in the satellite communication system, and the second device 12 can be an NTN network device in the satellite communication system.

[0074] In the embodiments provided in this application, the base station can be any device with wireless transceiver capabilities, including but not limited to: evolved base stations (NodeB, eNB, or e-NodeB) in Long Term Evolution (LTE), base stations (gNodeB or gNB) or transmission receiving points / transmission reception points (TRPs) in New Radio (NR), base stations in subsequent evolutions of the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP), access nodes, wireless relay nodes, and wireless backhaul nodes in Wi-Fi systems. The base station can be: a macro base station, a micro base station, a pico base station, a small cell, a relay station, or a balloon station, etc. The base station can include one or more co-located or non-co-located Transmission Reception Points (TRPs). The base station can also be a radio controller, a centralized unit (CU), and / or a distributed unit (DU) in a cloud radioaccess network (CRAN) scenario. The base station can communicate with terminal devices or communicate with terminal devices through relay stations. The terminal device can communicate with multiple base stations using different technologies. For example, it can communicate with a base station supporting LTE networks, a base station supporting 5G networks, or even have dual connections with both LTE and 5G base stations. As another example, the network device specifically refers to a network device in a satellite communication system, namely an NTN network device. For instance, an NTN network device includes any one of the following: an NTN base station (gNB), a drone network device, a high-altitude platform network device, an aircraft network device, or a communication balloon network device. This application does not limit the specific implementation of the NTN network device; these are merely examples of possible scenarios.

[0075] In the embodiments provided in this application, the terminal device may also be referred to as user equipment (UE), mobile station (MS), mobile terminal (MT), etc., and is a device that provides voice or data connectivity to users, or it may be an Internet of Things (IoT) device. For example, terminal devices include handheld devices with wireless connectivity, vehicle-mounted devices, etc. Currently, terminal devices can be: mobile phones, tablets, laptops, PDAs, mobile internet devices (MIDs), wearable devices (such as smartwatches, smart bracelets, pedometers, etc.), in-vehicle devices (such as cars, bicycles, electric vehicles, airplanes, ships, trains, high-speed trains, etc.), virtual reality (VR) devices, augmented reality (AR) devices, wireless terminals in industrial control, smart home devices (such as refrigerators, televisions, air conditioners, electricity meters, etc.), intelligent robots, workshop equipment, wireless terminals in autonomous driving, wireless terminals in remote surgery, wireless terminals in smart grids, wireless terminals in transportation safety, wireless terminals in smart cities, or wireless terminals in smart homes, and flying devices (such as intelligent robots, hot air balloons, drones, airplanes), etc. Terminal devices can also be other devices with terminal functions; for example, a terminal device can also be a device that performs terminal functions in D2D communication. In this application, terminal devices with wireless transceiver functions and chips that can be installed in the aforementioned terminal devices are collectively referred to as terminal devices. Terminal devices can also be terminal devices in Internet of Things (IoT) systems. IoT is an important part of the future development of information technology. Its main technical feature is to connect objects to the network through communication technology, thereby realizing an intelligent network that connects people and machines and things.

[0076] In communication systems, Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN) technology is one of the technological directions for direct satellite connection between mobile phones and satellites, serving as an important supplement to terrestrial cellular communication technology. By integrating satellite communication networks with terrestrial 5G networks, NTN technology can provide ubiquitous coverage regardless of terrain, connecting multiple spaces—air, space, land, and sea—to form an integrated, ubiquitous access network, enabling on-demand access across all scenarios. Non-terrestrial networks are not limited by geographical location, achieving seamless global communication; furthermore, satellite communication networks can be flexibly deployed to quickly respond to various communication needs. Due to the advantages of global coverage and flexible deployment, non-terrestrial networks are now widely used in various communication scenarios.

[0077] Furthermore, Internet of Things-Non-Terrestrial Network (IoT-NTN) is an important branch of non-terrestrial network technology, aiming to provide connectivity services for IoT devices through non-terrestrial network means such as satellite communication. With the rapid development of IoT technology, more and more devices need to access networks to achieve interconnectivity. However, in some remote areas or regions such as oceans and airspace where traditional terrestrial networks are difficult to cover, connectivity for IoT devices has become a challenge. The emergence of IoT-NTN technology is precisely to solve this problem, achieving wide-area coverage and remote connectivity for IoT devices through non-terrestrial network means such as satellite.

[0078] Please refer to Figure 1B, which is a schematic diagram of a satellite communication system scenario provided in an embodiment of this application. When using a satellite communication network in a non-terrestrial network (NTN) for communication, due to the limited coverage of ground stations, as the satellite moves, the same satellite often cannot provide a service link to the UE while simultaneously providing a feeder link to the ground station. A feeder link refers to a radio link from an earth station located at a designated fixed point to a space station (such as a satellite), or from a space station to a ground station (such as a gateway) located at a fixed point. This type of link is mainly used for space radio communication services other than fixed satellite services. Specifically, the feeder link plays a crucial role in the satellite communication system; it is the communication link connecting the ground station (or gateway) and the satellite. The service link is used to connect the UE and NTN network equipment in the satellite communication network to achieve data transmission and service interaction.

[0079] In one implementation, the satellite communication network relies on a spaceborne platform, which mainly includes low Earth orbit (LEO), medium Earth orbit (MEO), and geostationary Earth orbit (GEO) satellites.

[0080] In one scenario, the NTN network device on the satellite maintains a power supply link with the ground station, and the NTN network device maintains a service link with the UE. In this case, the communication mode of the NTN network device on the satellite is normal mode, and the communication mode of the UE is normal mode.

[0081] In another scenario, while maintaining connectivity, the NTN network equipment on the satellite maintains a service link with the terminal equipment as the satellite moves, but the power supply link between the NTN network equipment and the ground station is disconnected. If the NTN network equipment supports store-and-forward (S&F) mode, the communication mode can be switched from normal mode to S&F mode. As an example, if the ground station is the target receiver of the data the UE wants to send, and the UE supports S&F mode, the communication mode can also be switched from normal mode to store-and-forward S&F mode.

[0082] In another scenario within an NTN network, the UE establishes an attachment with the network side. The attachment process includes the following: First, the UE performs an NTN cell / network search. After finding a suitable NTN cell, it sends an attach request message to the NTN network device on the satellite via the random access channel. Then, upon receiving the UE's attach request, if the request message is valid, the NTN network device on the satellite sends relevant signaling messages to the ground station, forwarding the UE's attach request to the core network. Next, the mobility management entity (MME) on the core network receives the request, processes it, and sends an attach accept message to the NTN network device on the satellite. The NTN network device on the satellite then sends an attach accept message to the UE, which receives the attach accept message, thus completing the attach process.

[0083] In one implementation, in the UE's store-and-forward mode, the serving link and the feeder link cannot coexist. The serving link is used for data and signaling transmission between the UE and a space station (such as a satellite), while the feeder link is mainly used for data transmission and communication between the satellite and ground stations (such as gateways). The attach process involves multiple steps, including the UE registering with the network, establishing a connection, and obtaining network services, requiring the use of different links at different stages. The inability of the serving link and the feeder link to coexist prevents the UE from completing all steps at once during the attach process. In this case, the MME network element can send an attach reject message to the UE via the signaling link. This attach reject message carries a satellite list, which includes satellite identifiers, such as identity and ID. For example, this satellite list is determined based on system information block 32 (SIB32), which is part of the system information broadcast from the network side to the UE. SIB32 carries parameters and configuration information related to NTN cell selection, re-selection, and mobility management, ensuring the UE can correctly access and camp on the network. Furthermore, the UE can attempt to reattach based on the satellite list in the attach reject message. It can be seen that, due to the discontinuous coverage of the NTN network, SIB32 messages are used to broadcast subsequent satellite forecasts that will provide network coverage. During the attach process between the UE and the NTN network equipment, the UE establishes a connection with the NTN network equipment to upload data.

[0084] Please refer to Figure 2, which is a schematic diagram of the signaling interaction process in the store-and-forward mode of an NTN network according to an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 2, the signaling interaction process includes, but is not limited to, the following steps.

[0085] In one implementation, the signaling interactions of the network attach process in the store-and-forward mode of the NTN network include, but are not limited to, steps S0 to S4 as shown in Figure 2:

[0086] Step S0: NTN network device 1 broadcasts system message block SIB32, and correspondingly, UE receives system message block SIB32.

[0087] When the UE is within the signal coverage area of ​​NTN network device 1, the UE can search for / receive system message block 32 broadcast by NTN network device 1 during the network search process.

[0088] Specifically, NTN network device 1 can broadcast SIB32 according to the configuration requirements of the network operator, and UEs within the signal coverage area of ​​NTN network device 1 can receive the SIB32.

[0089] For example, SIB32 contains information related to satellite mobility in a satellite communication system. For example, SIB32 includes, but is not limited to: satellite identifiers (IDs) defined in 3GPP, such as satelliteinfo-r17; satellite position and orbit information, such as orbital altitude, orbital inclination and eccentricity, etc.; satellite signal quality and coverage; satellite handover related information, such as handover priority, handover threshold, etc.

[0090] Step S1: The UE sends an attach request to the NTN network device 1, and the NTN network device 1 receives the attach request.

[0091] For example, the attach request is an attach request used to request registration with the network.

[0092] In one scenario, when a UE powers on or moves from an area with no network coverage to one with network coverage, it needs to register with the network by sending an attach request message to inform the network of its location. This allows the network to identify and record the UE's information, preparing for subsequent communication services.

[0093] In another scenario, when the UE moves to different locations, in order to ensure that the network can accurately page the UE, the UE needs to send an attach request message to the network to update its location.

[0094] Step S2: NTN network device 1 sends a first message to the UE, and the UE receives the first message.

[0095] For example, the first message is an attach reject message, used to indicate that the UE's attach request is rejected. In one scenario, the attach process involves multiple steps, such as the UE registering with the network, establishing a connection, and obtaining network services. Different links need to be used at different stages. Because the service link and the power supply link of NTN network device 1 in store-and-forward mode cannot exist simultaneously, the UE cannot complete all steps at once during the attach process. In this case, NTN network device 1 cannot send the UE's attach request to the MME network element in the core network, causing the UE to fail to register with the network. The MME network element can send an attach reject message to NTN network device 1 via the signaling link, and NTN network device 1 sends an attach reject message to the UE to inform the UE that it cannot register with the network.

[0096] In one implementation, the attach reject message carries a list of satellites, determined based on SIB32, which includes, but is not limited to, basic identification information of available satellites, such as satellite IDs. For example, attach reject can also instruct the UE to attempt to reattach to the satellites listed in the list.

[0097] Step S3: NTN network device 2 broadcasts the first system message.

[0098] As one implementation, the first system message includes at least one type of system message block, which is used to indicate whether the NTN network device 2 supports store-and-forward mode.

[0099] Step S4. Determine that NTN network device 2 does not support store-and-forward, and continue searching for networks.

[0100] In one implementation, when the UE is within the signal coverage area of ​​NTN network device 2, the UE may search for / receive a first system message broadcast by NTN network device 2 during the network search process. Through this system message, the UE can learn that NTN network device 2 does not support store-and-forward mode. Since the UE is operating in store-and-forward mode, NTN network device 2 does not meet the UE's access requirements. In this case, the UE's current network search is invalid, and the UE needs to search for the network again until it can find an NTN network device that supports store-and-forward.

[0101] In another implementation, when the UE is within the signal coverage area of ​​NTN network device 2, the UE can receive a first system message broadcast by NTN network device 2 during the network search process. If the UE learns from the first system message that NTN network device 2 supports store-and-forward mode, it can then access NTN network device 2 for data transmission.

[0102] In one scenario, the UE is an IoT device or an AIoT device. The data stored by the IoT device or AIoT device includes, but is not limited to, device status data, environmental perception data, business-related data, user behavior data, etc.

[0103] In another implementation, the signaling interactions during the re-establishment process in the store-and-forward mode of the NTN network include, but are not limited to, steps S10 to S13 as shown in Figure 2:

[0104] Step S10: The UE and NTN network device 1 establish a connection.

[0105] For example, the connection can be a radio resource control connection (RRC connection).

[0106] In one scenario, under store-and-forward mode, the UE and NTN network device 1 establish a communication link (i.e., an RRC connection) through an RRC connection procedure. The UE can send stored data to NTN network device 1 based on the radio resources configured in the RRC connection. Furthermore, in store-and-forward mode, after receiving data from the UE, NTN network device 1 may optionally perform some other processing on the data while storing it, such as data compression, encryption, format conversion, etc.

[0107] Step S11: NTN network device 1 sends a second message to the UE.

[0108] In one scenario, NTN network device 1 is a satellite, or a component on a satellite (such as a chip, module, or circuit). Due to the satellite's movement, the RRC connection between NTN network device 1 and the UE is about to be disconnected. In this case, NTN network device 1 can send message 2 to the UE, for example, message 2 is an RRC connection release message. This message is used to release the signaling message between the UE and NTN network device 1 to save network resources and allow the UE to transition from a connected state to an idle state.

[0109] In one implementation, the service will be interrupted if the UE is transmitting data when the RRC connection is released.

[0110] In this embodiment, during satellite movement, if the movement causes changes in the number of UEs within the satellite's coverage area, leading to increased competition for network resources, and the system is unable to allocate sufficient resources to the UEs, the connection may be about to be disconnected due to insufficient resources. Satellite movement changes the distance and relative position between the satellite and the UE, resulting in a longer signal propagation path and weakened signal strength due to propagation loss. When the signal strength is lower than the UE's receiving sensitivity, the connection may be disconnected. When the satellite moves to certain locations, the signal may be blocked by obstacles such as buildings and mountains, causing signal interruption and impending disconnection of the connection between the satellite and the UE. It should be noted that the reasons for the impending disconnection of the satellite and UE connection are not limited to those listed in this embodiment; there may be more or fewer reasons, which this application does not limit.

[0111] Step S12: NTN network device 3 broadcasts a second system message.

[0112] As one implementation, the second system message includes at least one type of system message block, which is used to indicate whether the NTN network device 3 supports store-and-forward mode.

[0113] Step S13: Determine that NTN network device 3 does not support store-and-forward, and continue searching for networks.

[0114] In one implementation, when the UE is within the signal coverage area of ​​NTN network device 3, during the network search process, the UE searches for / receives system message 3 broadcast by NTN network device 3. Through this second system message, the UE learns that NTN network device 3 does not support store-and-forward mode. Since the UE is operating in store-and-forward mode, NTN network device 3 does not meet the UE's access requirements. In this case, the UE's current network search is invalid, and the UE needs to search for the network again until it can find an NTN network device that supports store-and-forward.

[0115] In another implementation, when the UE is within the signal coverage area of ​​NTN network device 3, the UE receives a second system message broadcast by NTN network device 3 during the network search process. The UE learns from the second system message that NTN network device 3 supports store-and-forward mode, and then accesses NTN network device 3 for data transmission.

[0116] As shown in Figure 2, the satellites in the existing SIB32 or other message satellite lists correspond to different functions and serve different purposes than the satellites that can provide storage services. For example, the satellites provided in the satellite list correspond to discontinuous coverage and are used to indicate the next satellite that may provide network coverage for the same area of ​​the current cell. It does not distinguish which core network the next satellite belongs to, nor does it distinguish which satellite can provide store-and-forward services. However, for store-and-forward services, the satellites providing these services are satellites that provide services to specific user equipment and are designated by the core network; they may not be the next satellite adjacent to the current satellite. Therefore, according to the existing satellite lists provided by SIB32 or other messages, the UE in store-and-forward mode may not be able to access a satellite that can provide storage services during the network search phase. Consequently, the UE needs to perform multiple searches, resulting in wasted signaling and accelerated power consumption.

[0117] In view of this, this application provides a communication method in which a satellite / NTN network device on a satellite can provide a list of satellites supporting store-and-forward services to a terminal device. Since the UE is in store-and-forward mode, the UE can calculate the arrival time of the satellites supporting storage services based on the above satellite list, and then access the satellite at that time to perform data transmission. It can be seen that the UE can greatly increase the probability of accessing the network through this satellite list, thereby improving the efficiency of data transmission and reducing latency.

[0118] In one scenario, the UE, operating in low-power mode, calculates the arrival time of NTN network devices based on this satellite list. The UE is then woken up at this time to access the network and perform data transmission. It can be seen that this satellite list can identify NTN network devices that support store-and-forward, thereby waking up the devices at the appropriate time, reducing unnecessary wake-ups and lowering the UE's power consumption.

[0119] In the embodiments of this application, the user equipment can also be referred to as a terminal device, a terminal, or a UE. For ease of description, a terminal device will be used as an example below. Store-and-forward can be referred to as store & forward, or S&F. For ease of description, store-and-forward will be used as an example below. Low-power mode can be referred to as hibernation state / idle state / sleep state / standby state, etc.

[0120] The communication method provided in the embodiments of this application will be described in detail below with reference to Figures 3 to 5. This method can be implemented by an NTN network device and a terminal device. It should be understood that the steps performed by the terminal device in this method can also be performed by components (such as chips, modules, or circuits) in the terminal device, and / or, the steps performed by the NTN network device in this method can also be performed by components (such as chips, modules, or circuits) in the network device.

[0121] Please refer to Figure 3, which is a flowchart illustrating a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application. This method can be implemented based on the architecture shown in Figure 1A or other architectures. The method includes steps S300 to S304, which are described below.

[0122] Step S300: The first NTN network device determines the resource configuration, which includes information about at least one NTN network device that supports store-and-forward.

[0123] As an alternative, step S300 is optional. For example, the first NTN network device may not perform step S300.

[0124] As an example, the first NTN network device can retrieve a list of satellites supporting store-and-forward services from the network configuration information of the core network. Exemplarily, the satellite list includes information about at least one NTN network device. Based on this satellite list, a resource configuration is generated and sent to the terminal device. It is understood that network operators can flexibly configure the satellite information providing store-and-forward services according to the satellite deployment situation.

[0125] As another example, the first NTN network device receives resource configurations, such as resource configurations from the core network.

[0126] Step S301: The first NTN network device sends a resource configuration to the terminal device, and the terminal device receives the resource configuration.

[0127] For example, a first NTN network device sends the resource configuration to a terminal device, wherein the resource configuration includes a first device list, which includes information on at least one NTN network device that supports / provides / configures store-and-forward (service), i.e., at least one NTN network device indicated in the first device list supports / provides / configures store-and-forward (service). In one implementation, the NTN network device may specifically be a satellite, and the first device list may specifically be a list of satellite IDs for store-and-forward.

[0128] In one implementation, the first device list can be a subset of the satellite list, which can be a satellite identifier defined in 3GPP, such as satelliteinfo-r17. satelliteinfo-r17 is carried in system messages, such as SIB32. Understandably, in an NTN network, devices need to know the identity of the satellites they are communicating with. satelliteinfo-r17 provides such a unique identifier, enabling terminal devices to accurately identify and distinguish different satellites. Through "satelliteId-r17," other relevant satellite information, such as orbital parameters, service time, and coverage area, can be associated. Thus, after receiving a system message, the terminal device can find the corresponding other information based on the satellite identifier, thereby enabling subsequent communication and operations. As an example, a subset of the satellite list can be a subset containing a single satellite identifier, such as {satelliteID1}, {satelliteID2}, ..., {satelliteID17}; or, a subset of the satellite list can be a subset containing two satellite identifiers, such as {satelliteID1, satelliteID2}; or, a subset of the satellite list can be a subset containing at least two satellite identifiers, such as {satelliteID1, ..., satelliteIDn}, where n is a positive integer greater than or equal to 2 and less than or equal to 16.

[0129] In one scenario, within an NTN network, a first NTN network device and a terminal device establish a communication connection. Before the first NTN network device sends resource configuration to the terminal device, if the terminal device needs to send data and the service link and feeder link in the NTN network are not simultaneously available, the terminal device can switch to store-and-forward mode and send a store-and-forward request to the first NTN network device. This request includes relevant data information, such as data size, destination address, and store-and-forward priority. Upon receiving the request from the terminal, the first NTN network device processes it and determines whether to accept the request based on current resource conditions (such as storage capacity, processing power, and communication link status). If the satellite decides to accept the request, it can switch to store-and-forward mode and allocate appropriate storage resources based on the data size. Therefore, in this scenario, both the terminal device and the first NTN network device are in store-and-forward mode.

[0130] In another scenario, if the resources in the first NTN network device are insufficient to meet the storage requirements, the first NTN network device can send resource configuration to the terminal to instruct the terminal device to connect to an NTN network device that can provide store-and-forward services.

[0131] Step S302: The terminal device sends a first request to the second NTN network device, and the second NTN network device receives the first request.

[0132] For example, after receiving the resource configuration from the first NTN network device, the terminal device can store the resource configuration. A description of the "resource configuration" can be found in step S301, and will not be repeated here. In one scenario, the terminal device can determine a second NTN network device from the first list of devices supporting store-and-forward (service) provided by the resource configuration (including at least one NTN network device) based on the satellite forecast information in SIB32, wherein the second NTN network device is a device capable of providing store-and-forward. Further, in order to continue the data transmission task, the terminal device sends a first request to the second NTN network device to access the network and then transmit data. Optionally, the first request is a random access request.

[0133] In one implementation, the terminal device can calculate the first moment of the second NTN network device based on resource configuration, wherein the second NTN network device is a device that can provide store-and-forward services or a device that provides network coverage to the UE's location area in the shortest possible time and supports store-and-forward. Further, at the first moment, the terminal device sends a first request to the second NTN network device to access the second NTN network device.

[0134] As an example, the resource configuration includes a first device list, which includes a list of NTN network devices that support store-and-forward (service), i.e., at least one NTN network device indicated in the first device list supports / provides / is configured with store-and-forward (service). Further, the terminal device can calculate the operating cycle of the at least one NTN network device supporting store-and-forward (service) based on ephemeris information. Optionally, the terminal device can also determine the coverage area of ​​the at least one NTN network device and the relative positional relationship between the terminal and the coverage area of ​​the at least one NTN network device through a coverage map of the NTN network device or relevant geographic information system data. Combining the operating direction and coverage area of ​​the at least one NTN network device, the approximate direction and angle of the at least one NTN network device visible from the current terminal location are obtained. Further, considering the relative motion between the terminal device and the at least one NTN network device, and considering the influence of the terminal device's moving speed and direction on the arrival time of the at least one NTN network device, the arrival time of the at least one NTN network device is calculated based on the operating cycle and current location of the at least one NTN network device. The NTN network device with the shortest arrival time (i.e., the second NTN network device) is selected from the arrival times of the at least one NTN network device, and its first arrival time is determined.

[0135] Step S303: The terminal device sends first uplink data to the second NTN network device, and correspondingly, the second NTN network device receives the first uplink data.

[0136] For example, after the terminal device establishes a connection with the second NTN network device, in store-and-forward mode, the terminal device can transmit data and then send first uplink data to the second NTN network device.

[0137] Step S304: The second NTN network device stores data.

[0138] For example, after receiving the first uplink data from the UE, the second NTN network device can store the data because it supports store-and-forward service, and then forward it to the target node (such as a ground station) when link conditions permit.

[0139] Please refer to Figure 4, which is a flowchart illustrating a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application. This method can be implemented based on the architecture shown in Figure 1A or other architectures. The method includes, but is not limited to, the following steps:

[0140] Step S401: The terminal device sends second uplink data to the first NTN network device, and correspondingly, the first NTN network device receives the second uplink data.

[0141] Specifically, the terminal device establishes a communication connection with the first NTN network, and the terminal device can send second uplink data to the first NTN network device through this communication connection.

[0142] As an example, the terminal device and the first NTN network device are in store-and-forward mode. In store-and-forward mode, the first NTN network device receives second uplink data from the terminal device and can store the data.

[0143] Step S402: The first NTN network device sends a connection release message to the terminal device. The connection release message includes resource configuration. Correspondingly, the terminal device receives the connection release message.

[0144] The resource configuration includes a first device list, which contains information about at least one NTN network device that supports / provides / configures store-and-forward (service). Specifically, at least one NTN network device indicated in the first device list supports / provides / configures store-and-forward (service). In one implementation, the NTN network device may specifically be a satellite, and the first device list may specifically be a list of satellite IDs for S&F that support store-and-forward. For example, further descriptions of "SIB32" can be found in step S0 of Figure 2, and descriptions of the "first device list" can be found in step S301, which will not be repeated here.

[0145] As an example, the connection release message is the RRCConnectionRelease message. Optionally, an example of the RRCConnectionRelease message can be found below:

[0146] RRCConnectionRelease::=SEQUENCE{

[0147] …

[0148] list of satellite ID for S&F ENUMERATED{satelliteID1,satelliteID3}

[0149] }

[0150] As can be seen, a new information element (IE) has been added to the RRCConnectionRelease message. For example, the IE is a list of satellite IDs for S&F. This IE is used to indicate at least one NTN network device (such as a satellite) that supports store-and-forward service.

[0151] In one scenario, the first NTN network device is a satellite, or a component on a satellite (such as a chip, module, or circuit). Due to the satellite's movement, the RRC connection between the first NTN network device and the terminal device is about to be disconnected. In this case, the first NTN network device can send a connection release message, such as an RRC connection release message, to the terminal device. This message is used to release the RRC connection between the terminal device and the connection release message, thereby saving network resources and allowing the terminal device to transition from a connected state to an idle state.

[0152] In one implementation, the service will be interrupted if the terminal device is transmitting data when the RRC connection is released.

[0153] In this embodiment, during satellite movement, if the movement causes changes in the number of terminal devices within the satellite's coverage area, leading to increased competition for network resources, and the system is unable to allocate sufficient resources to the terminal devices, the connection may be about to be disconnected due to insufficient resources. Satellite movement changes the distance and relative position between the satellite and the terminal devices, resulting in a longer signal propagation path and weakened signal strength due to propagation loss. When the signal strength is lower than the receiving sensitivity of the terminal device, the connection may be disconnected. When the satellite moves to certain locations, the signal may be blocked by obstacles such as buildings and mountains, causing signal interruption and impending disconnection of the connection between the satellite and the terminal devices. It should be noted that the reasons for the impending disconnection of the connection between the satellite and the terminal devices are not limited to those listed in this embodiment; there may be more or fewer reasons, which this application does not limit.

[0154] Step S403: The terminal device sends a first request to the second NTN network device, and the second NTN network device receives the first request.

[0155] For example, the terminal device can determine a second NTN network device that supports store-and-forward based on the resource configuration carried in the connection release message, and then send a first request to the first NTN network device to access the second NTN network device.

[0156] In one implementation, after receiving a connection release message 2 from the first NTN network device, the terminal device can enter an idle state. In the idle state, the terminal device, combining the SIB32 satellite forecast information and the first device list (i.e., resource configuration) configured in the RRC connection release message that supports store-and-forward services, retrieves the second NTN network device and calculates its arrival time. The second NTN network device is one that can provide store-and-forward services. Further, at a second moment, the terminal device can wake itself up to perform idle state tasks, such as searching for a network. After finding the second NTN network device, the terminal device sends a first request to the second NTN network device to access the network.

[0157] As an example, further descriptions of "the terminal device sending a first request to the second NTN network device" can be found in step S302 of Figure 3, and will not be repeated here.

[0158] Step S404: The terminal device sends first uplink data to the second NTN network device, and correspondingly, the second NTN network device receives the first uplink data.

[0159] For example, the relevant description of step S404 can be found in step S303 shown in Figure 3, and will not be repeated here.

[0160] Step S405: The second NTN network device stores data.

[0161] For example, the relevant description of step S404 can be found in step S304 shown in Figure 3, and will not be repeated here.

[0162] Please refer to Figure 5, which is a flowchart illustrating a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application. This method can be implemented based on the architecture shown in Figure 1A or other architectures. The method includes, but is not limited to, the following steps:

[0163] Step S500: The first NTN network device broadcasts SIB32, and correspondingly, the terminal device receives the SIB32.

[0164] For example, the first NTN network device broadcasts SIB32 within its own signal range, and the terminal device can receive the SIB32 if its location area is within that signal range.

[0165] SIB32 carries resource configuration, which includes a first device list. This first device list includes information on at least one NTN network device that supports / provides / configures store-and-forward (service), i.e., the NTN network devices indicated in the first device list support / provide / configure store-and-forward (service). In one implementation, the at least one NTN network device may specifically be a satellite, and the first device list may specifically be a list of satellite IDs for store-and-forward (S&F). For example, further descriptions of "SIB32" can be found in step S0 of Figure 2, and descriptions of the "first device list" can be found in step S301, which will not be repeated here.

[0166] As an example, the following is a sample SIB32 message:

[0167] As can be seen, a new information element (IE) has been added to the SIB32 message. For example, the IE is a list of satellite IDs for S&F. This IE is used to indicate at least one NTN network device (such as a satellite) that supports store-and-forward services.

[0168] In the embodiments of this application, the NTN network device on the satellite may broadcast SIB32 in one or more of the following situations, including: NTN cell selection or reselection phase, system information update phase, connection establishment and re-establishment phase.

[0169] For example, the NTN cell selection or reselection phase includes the following process: When a UE powers on or moves from another cell, it needs to select a suitable NTN cell to camp on. During this process, the NTN network equipment on the satellite broadcasts an SIB32 message containing parameters related to NTN cell selection and reselection. The UE receives this information to select the most suitable cell to camp on.

[0170] For example, the system information update phase includes the following process: When certain system parameters of the satellite network change, such as cell resource configuration and network topology, the satellite will notify the UE of the system information update by broadcasting SIB32 messages. This ensures that the UE always uses the latest system parameters for communication and maintains a normal connection with the network.

[0171] For example, the connection establishment and re-establishment phase includes the following process: During the process of establishing a connection between the UE and the satellite network or re-establishing the connection after an interruption, the UE can obtain network information, such as access control parameters and resource allocation information, through SIB32 messages, thereby completing the connection establishment or re-establishment.

[0172] Step S501: The terminal device sends an attach request message to the first NNT network device, and the first NNT network device receives the attach request message.

[0173] For example, the attach request message is an attach request message. In one implementation, the first NTN network device is an accessible device determined based on the SIB32 message.

[0174] In one scenario, when a terminal device powers on or moves from an area with no network coverage to one with network coverage, it needs to register with the network by sending an attach request message to inform the network of its location. This allows the network to identify and record the UE's information, preparing for subsequent communication services.

[0175] In another scenario, when the UE moves to different locations, in order to ensure that the network can accurately page the UE, the UE needs to send an attach request message to the network to update its location.

[0176] Step S502: The first NTN network device sends an attach rejection message to the terminal device, and the terminal device receives the attach rejection message.

[0177] For example, the attach rejection message is called an attach reject message. The attach reject message is used to indicate that the network rejects the UE's attach request. In one scenario, the attach process involves multiple steps, such as the UE registering with the network, establishing a connection, and obtaining network services. Different links need to be used at different stages. Because the service link and the power supply link of the first NTN network device in store-and-forward mode cannot exist simultaneously, the UE cannot complete all steps at once during the attach process. In this case, the first NTN network device cannot send the UE's attach request to the MME network element in the core network, causing the UE to fail to register with the network. The MME network element can send an attach reject message to the first NTN network device via the signaling link, and the first NTN network device sends an attach reject message to the UE to inform it that it cannot register with the network.

[0178] Step S503: The terminal device sends a first request to the second NTN network device, and the second NTN network device receives the first request.

[0179] For example, the terminal device can determine the second NTN network device that supports store-and-forward based on the resource configuration carried in SIB32, and then send a first request to the first NTN network device to access the second NTN network device.

[0180] In one implementation, after receiving an attach rejection message, the terminal device can enter an idle state. In the idle state, the terminal device, combining the SIB32 and the first list of devices supporting store-and-forward services (i.e., resource configuration) carried in the SIB32, retrieves the second NTN network device and calculates its arrival time. The second NTN network device is one that can provide store-and-forward services. Further, at a second moment, the terminal device can wake itself up to perform idle state tasks, such as searching for the network. After finding the second NTN network device, the terminal device sends a first request to the second NTN network device to access the network.

[0181] As an example, the description of "the terminal device sending a first request to the second NTN network device" can be found in step S302 of Figure 3, and will not be repeated here.

[0182] Step S504: The terminal device sends first uplink data to the second NTN network device, and correspondingly, the second NTN network device receives the first uplink data.

[0183] For example, the relevant description of step S505 can be found in step S303 shown in Figure 3, and will not be repeated here.

[0184] Step S505: The second NTN network device stores data.

[0185] For example, the relevant description of step S505 can be referred to step S304 shown in Figure 3, and will not be repeated here.

[0186] It should be understood that the steps in the above-described method embodiments provided in this application can be implemented by integrated logic circuits in the processor hardware or by instructions in software form. The method steps disclosed in the embodiments of this application can be directly implemented by a hardware processor, or implemented by a combination of hardware and software modules in the processor.

[0187] This application divides the communication device into functional modules according to the above method embodiments. For example, each function can be divided into its own functional modules, or two or more functions can be integrated into one processing module. The integrated modules can be implemented in hardware or as software functional modules. It should be noted that the module division in this application is illustrative and only represents one logical functional division; other division methods may be used in actual implementation. The communication device of the embodiments of this application will be described in detail below with reference to Figures 6 and 7.

[0188] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of a communication device provided in an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 6, the communication device includes a processing module 601 and a transceiver module 602. The transceiver module 602 can implement corresponding communication functions, and can also be called an interface, communication interface, or communication module. The processing module 601 is used for data processing, such as generating information. The transceiver module 602 can have its own control logic, or it can perform corresponding operations under the control of the processing module 601. In some embodiments of this application, the communication device can be used to perform the actions performed by the sending end in the above method embodiments. For example, the sending end can be the device itself or a chip or functional module configurable in the device. The transceiver module 602 is used to perform operations related to information transmission and reception in the above method embodiments, and the processing module 601 is used to perform operations related to data processing in the above method embodiments. The processing module 601 can perform corresponding operations by calling a computer program or by performing corresponding operations through corresponding hardware circuits. The transceiver module 602 can perform transmission and reception operations independently, or it can perform corresponding transmission and reception operations under the control of the processing module 601.

[0189] For example, the communication device shown in FIG6 can be a terminal device or a component in a terminal device. The processing module 601 and the transceiver module 602 in the communication device can respectively perform the following operations:

[0190] The transceiver module 602 is used to receive resource configuration from a first non-terrestrial network (NTN) network device, wherein the resource configuration includes information of at least one NTN network device that supports store-and-forward.

[0191] This processing module 601 is used to generate the first request;

[0192] The transceiver module 602 is also used to send a first request to the second NTN network device, wherein the first request is used to access the second NTN network device, and the second NTN network device belongs to at least one NTN network device;

[0193] The transceiver module 602 is also used to send the first uplink data to the second NTN network device.

[0194] In one possible implementation, resource configuration is carried out in system message block SIB32.

[0195] In one scenario, the processing module 601 is also used to generate an attach request message;

[0196] The transceiver module 602 is also used to send an attach request message to the first NTN network device;

[0197] The transceiver module 602 is also used to receive attach rejection messages from the first NTN network device.

[0198] In another possible implementation, resource configuration is carried in a connection release message, which indicates that the connection between the first NTN network device and the terminal device is disconnected.

[0199] In one scenario, the processing module 601 is also used to generate second uplink data;

[0200] The transceiver module 602 is also used to send second uplink data to the first NTN network device.

[0201] In another possible implementation, the processing module 601 is further configured to calculate the first moment of the second NTN network device based on resource configuration, wherein the first moment is used to indicate the time when the second NTN network device arrives at the location area of ​​the terminal device.

[0202] At the first moment, the transceiver module 602 is also used to send a first random access request to the second NTN network device.

[0203] Reusing Figure 6, in some other embodiments of this application, for example, the communication device shown in Figure 6 can be a network device or a component of a network device, or the communication device shown in Figure 6 can be a component of at least one network device in a first NTN network device. The processing module 601 and the transceiver module 602 in the communication device can respectively perform the following operations:

[0204] The processing module 601 is used to determine the resource configuration, wherein the resource configuration includes information on at least one NTN network device that supports store-and-forward.

[0205] The transceiver module 602 is used to send resource configuration to the terminal device, wherein the resource configuration is used by the terminal device to send first uplink data to the second NTN network device, and the second NTN network device belongs to at least one NTN network device.

[0206] In one implementation, resource allocation is carried out in system message block 32.

[0207] In one scenario, the transceiver module 602 is used to receive an attach request message from a terminal device;

[0208] Processing module 601 is used to generate an attach rejection message;

[0209] The transceiver module 602 is used to send attach rejection messages to the terminal device.

[0210] In another implementation, resource allocation is carried out in connection release messages.

[0211] In one scenario, the transceiver module 602 is used to receive second uplink data from the terminal device;

[0212] The processing module 601 is used to generate a connection release message, which indicates that the connection between the first NTN network device and the terminal device is disconnected.

[0213] The specific descriptions of the transceiver module and processing module shown in the above embodiments are merely examples. For the specific functions or execution steps of the transceiver module and processing module, please refer to the above method embodiments, which will not be described in detail here.

[0214] The communication device according to the embodiments of this application has been described above. The following describes possible product forms of the communication device. Any product possessing the functions of the communication device described in FIG6 above falls within the protection scope of the embodiments of this application.

[0215] The following description is merely an example and does not limit the product form of the communication device in the embodiments of this application to this.

[0216] In one possible implementation, in the communication device shown in FIG6, the processing module 601 can be one or more processors, and the transceiver module 602 can be a transceiver, or the transceiver module 602 can also be a transmitting module and a receiving module. The transmitting module can be a transmitter, and the receiving module can be a receiver. The transmitting module and the receiving module are integrated into one device, such as a transceiver. In the embodiments of this application, the processor and the transceiver can be coupled, etc., and the connection method of the processor and the transceiver is not limited in the embodiments of this application. In the process of executing the above method, the process of sending information in the above method can be the process of the processor outputting the above information. When outputting the above information, the processor outputs the above information to the transceiver so that the transceiver can transmit it. After the above information is output by the processor, it may need to undergo other processing before reaching the transceiver. Similarly, the process of receiving information in the above method can be the process of the processor receiving the input above information. When the processor receives the input information, the transceiver receives the above information and inputs it into the processor. In addition, after the transceiver receives the above information, the above information may need to undergo other processing before being input into the processor.

[0217] As shown in Figure 7, the communication device 70 includes one or more processors 720 and transceivers 710. Exemplarily, the transceiver 710 executes the functions or steps implemented by the transceiver module 602 shown in Figure 6, and the processor 720 executes the functions or steps implemented by the processing module 601 shown in Figure 6. The transceiver 710 may have its own processing logic or may execute related operations under the control of the processor 720. Optionally, the communication device 70 may also include a memory 730, which can store computer programs. The processor 720 performs operations by calling the computer programs in the memory 730, such as generating a first registration request, generating a first inventory response, etc. Specific descriptions of the processor 720 and transceiver 710 can be found in Figure 6 or the method embodiments shown above, and will not be detailed here. Descriptions of related steps and information in the above embodiments can be found in the descriptions in the above method embodiments, and will not be detailed here. In various implementations of the communication device shown in Figure 7, the transceiver may include a receiver for performing a receiving function (or operation) and a transmitter for performing a transmitting function (or operation). The transceiver is also used to communicate with other devices / appliances via a transmission medium.

[0218] This application also provides a chip system, which includes at least one processor for implementing the functions involved in the methods executed by the communication node, access network device, or core network device in any of the above embodiments.

[0219] In one possible design, the chip system further includes a memory for storing program instructions and data, which may be located within or outside the processor.

[0220] The chip system can consist of chips or include chips and other discrete components.

[0221] Optionally, the chip system may contain one or more processors. These processors can be implemented in hardware or software. When implemented in hardware, the processor can be a logic circuit, an integrated circuit, etc. When implemented in software, the processor can be a general-purpose processor, implemented by reading software code stored in memory.

[0222] Optionally, the chip system may contain one or more memories. The memory may be integrated with the processor or disposed separately from it; this application embodiment does not limit this. For example, the memory may be a non-transient processor, such as a read-only memory (ROM), which may be integrated with the processor on the same chip or disposed separately on different chips. This application embodiment does not specifically limit the type of memory or the arrangement of the memory and processor.

[0223] For example, the chip system may be a field programmable gate array (FPGA), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a system-on-chip (SoC), a central processor unit (CPU), a network processor (NP), a digital signal processor (DSP), a micro controller unit (MCU), a programmable logic device (PLD), or other integrated chips.

[0224] This application also provides a computer program product, which includes a computer program (also referred to as code or instructions) that, when run, causes a computer to execute the method performed by the communication node, access network device, or core network device in any of the above embodiments.

[0225] This application also provides a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program (also referred to as code or instructions). When the computer program is run, it causes a computer to perform the method executed by the communication node, access network device, or core network device in any of the above embodiments.

[0226] The various embodiments of this application can be combined arbitrarily to achieve different technical effects.

[0227] In the above embodiments, implementation can be achieved, in whole or in part, through software, hardware, firmware, or any combination thereof. When implemented in software, it can be implemented, in whole or in part, as a computer program product. The computer program product includes one or more computer instructions. When the computer program instructions are loaded and executed on a computer, all or part of the processes or functions described in this application are generated. The computer can be a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, a computer network, or other programmable device. The computer instructions can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium or transmitted from one computer-readable storage medium to another. For example, the computer instructions can be transmitted from one website, computer, server, or data center to another website, computer, server, or data center via wired (e.g., coaxial cable, fiber optic, digital subscriber line) or wireless (e.g., infrared, wireless, microwave, etc.) means. The computer-readable storage medium can be any available medium accessible to a computer or a data storage device such as a server or data center that integrates one or more available media. The available medium can be a magnetic medium (e.g., floppy disk, hard disk, magnetic tape), an optical medium (e.g., DVD), or a semiconductor medium (e.g., solid-state disk).

[0228] Those skilled in the art will understand that all or part of the processes in the methods of the above embodiments can be implemented by a computer program instructing related hardware. This program can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium, and when executed, it can include the processes described in the above method embodiments. The aforementioned storage medium includes various media capable of storing program code, such as ROM or random access memory (RAM), magnetic disks, or optical disks.

[0229] In summary, the above description is merely an embodiment of the technical solution of this application and is not intended to limit the scope of protection of this application. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made based on the disclosure of this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application.

Claims

1. A communication method, characterized in that, Applied to a terminal device, the method includes: In store-and-forward mode, a resource configuration is received from a first non-terrestrial network (NTN) network device, wherein the resource configuration includes information about at least one NTN network device that supports store-and-forward. Send a first request to a second NTN network device, wherein the second NTN network device belongs to the at least one NTN network device, and the first request is used to access the second NTN network device; Send the first uplink data to the second NTN network device.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The resource configuration is carried in a connection release message, which is used to indicate that the connection between the first NTN network device and the terminal device is disconnected.

3. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that, The method further includes: Send the second uplink data to the first NTN network device.

4. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The resource configuration is carried out in system message block SIB32.

5. The method according to claim 4, characterized in that, The method further includes: Send an attach request message to the first NTN network device; Receive an attach rejection message from the first NTN network device.

6. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, Sending the first random access request to the second NTN network device includes: The first moment of the second NTN network device is calculated based on the resource configuration, wherein the first moment is used to indicate the time when the second NTN network device arrives at the location area of ​​the terminal device; At the first moment, a first random access request is sent to the second NTN network device.

7. A communication method, characterized in that, Applied to a first NTN network device, the method includes: Determine resource configuration, wherein the resource configuration includes information on at least one NTN network device that supports store-and-forward; The resource configuration is sent to the terminal device, wherein the resource configuration is used by the terminal device to send first uplink data to a second NTN network device, the second NTN network device belonging to the at least one NTN network device.

8. The method according to claim 7, characterized in that, The resource configuration is carried in a connection release message, which is used to indicate that the connection between the first NTN network device and the terminal device is disconnected.

9. The method according to claim 8, characterized in that, The method further includes: Receive second uplink data from the terminal device.

10. The method according to any one of claims 7 to 9, characterized in that, The resource configuration is carried out in system message block 32.

11. The method according to claim 10, characterized in that, The method further includes: Receive an attach request message from the terminal device; Send an attach rejection message to the terminal device.

12. A communication system, characterized in that, The system includes a terminal device, a first NTN network device, and a second NTN network device; In store-and-forward mode, the first NTN network device sends a resource configuration to the terminal device, wherein the resource configuration includes information about at least one NTN network device that supports store-and-forward. The terminal device sends a first request to the second NTN network device, wherein the first request is used to access the second NTN network device, and the second NTN network device belongs to the at least one NTN network device; The terminal device sends the first uplink data to the second NTN network device; The second NTN network device stores the first uplink data.

13. A communication device, characterized in that, in: The communication device includes a module for performing the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 6; or, The communication device includes a processor for performing the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 6.

14. A communication device, characterized in that, in: The communication device includes a module for performing the method as described in any one of claims 7 to 11; or, The communication device includes a processor for performing the method as described in any one of claims 7 to 11.

15. A communication device, characterized in that, It includes logic circuitry and an interface, the logic circuitry and the interface being coupled; the interface is used for inputting and / or outputting information, and the logic circuitry is used for performing the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 11.

16. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The computer-readable storage medium is used to store a computer program, which, when executed, performs the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 11.

17. A communication system, characterized in that, It includes a first communication device and a second communication device, wherein: The first communication device is used to perform the method according to any one of claims 1 to 6; The second communication device is used to perform the method according to any one of claims 7 to 11.

18. A computer program product containing instructions, characterized in that, When the computer program product is run on an electronic device, it causes the electronic device to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 11.

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