Communication method and communication apparatus

Abstract

The present application provides a communication method, which is applicable to satellite communication as an example. The method comprises: receiving a first synchronization signal block (SSB); and performing random access on the basis of a random access resource corresponding to the first SSB, wherein the first SSB belongs to a first type of SSBs or a second type of SSBs, and the correspondence between the first type of SSBs and the random access resource is different from the correspondence between the second type of SSBs and the random access resource. By means of the technical solution of the present application, different correspondences to the random access resource are designed for the two types of SSBs, so that appropriate random resources can be configured for different areas, thereby solving the problem of uneven random access demand in an area caused by a large cell area in satellite communication, allocating limited resources to an area that requires more resources, and improving cell communication performance.

Description

Communication methods and communication devices

[0001] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202510108456.8, filed with the State Intellectual Property Office of China on January 21, 2025, entitled "Communication Method and Communication Device", the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

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

[0003] Satellite communication and other non-terrestrial networks (NTNs) have significant advantages such as global coverage, long-distance transmission, flexible networking, convenient deployment, and no geographical limitations. They have been widely used in many fields such as maritime communication, positioning and navigation, disaster relief, scientific experiments, video broadcasting, and Earth observation.

[0004] Unlike terrestrial communication, where cells are relatively small, satellite communication, in order to supplement terrestrial communication and achieve full regional coverage, requires a very large coverage area for a synchronization signal block (SSB) beam, resulting in a correspondingly large cell area. Therefore, the service demand distribution across different beam directions within a cell is highly uneven. For example, demand is relatively high in urban areas without terrestrial coverage, while demand is extremely low in marine or desert regions. These factors lead to greater resource waste. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This application provides a communication method and a communication device. By designing a technical solution with different correspondences between different SSB types and random access resources, random access resources can be allocated more rationally to meet the unevenly distributed random access requirements in satellite communication scenarios.

[0006] Firstly, a communication method is provided for satellite communication. This method can be executed by a communication device. This communication device can be a terminal device, or a component for the terminal device (such as a chip or circuit, which can be a modem chip, also known as a baseband chip, or a system-on-a-chip (SoC) or system-in-package (SIP) chip containing a modem core, etc.), or a logic module or software capable of implementing some or all of the functions of the terminal device, etc.

[0007] The method may include: receiving a first synchronization signal block; performing random access based on the random access resources corresponding to the first synchronization signal block, wherein the first synchronization signal block belongs to a first type of synchronization signal block or a second type of synchronization signal block, and the correspondence between the first type of synchronization signal block and the random access resources is different from the correspondence between the second type of synchronization signal block and the random access resources.

[0008] Based on the above scheme, by designing two types of SSBs and different correspondences of random access resources for these two types of SSBs, appropriate random resources can be configured for different areas. For example, more random access resources can be allocated to hot areas and fewer random access resources can be allocated to non-hot areas. This solves the problem of uneven random access demand in satellite communication caused by large cell areas, and allocates limited resources to areas that need resources more, thereby improving cell communication performance.

[0009] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations, the method further includes: receiving first indication information, the first indication information indicating that the first synchronization signal block belongs to the first type of synchronization signal block or the second type of synchronization signal block.

[0010] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations, the first type of synchronization signal block corresponds to M random access resources, and the second type of synchronization signal block corresponds to the M random access resources and N random access resources. The N random access resources are different from the M random access resources, and M and N are integers greater than or equal to 1.

[0011] Based on the above scheme, two types of random access resources are designed. The first type of random access resource is allocated to the SSB set, which includes both Type I and Type II SSBs, ensuring that all SSBs in the SSB set can meet their random access requirements. The second type of random access resource is allocated to Type II SSBs, providing them with additional random access resources to better meet the greater random access requirements of the Type II SSBs' beam coverage area.

[0012] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations, the M random access resources are periodically distributed in the time domain, and the N random access resources are aperiodically distributed in the time domain; or, the N random access resources are periodically distributed in the time domain, and the M random access resources and the N random access resources satisfy at least one of the following: different time periods, different start times, and different frequency domain distributions.

[0013] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations, the method further includes: receiving second indication information, the second indication information indicating the M random access resources and / or the N random access resources.

[0014] Based on the above scheme, the two types of random access resources are indicated by the network device and can be dynamically adjusted as needed, making communication settings flexible and improving communication performance.

[0015] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations, one of the synchronization signal blocks of the first type corresponds to x random access resources out of L random access resources, and one of the synchronization signal blocks of the second type corresponds to y random access resources out of the L random access resources, where y is k times x, k is greater than 1, and L is an integer greater than 1.

[0016] Based on the above scheme, random access resources are allocated to Type I SSBs and Type II SSBs in different proportions, with more resources allocated to Type II SSBs, which can better meet the uneven random access needs.

[0017] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations, the L random access resources are periodically distributed in location, and the L random access resources satisfy at least one of the following in location: the random access resources corresponding to different synchronization signal blocks in the first type of synchronization signal block are alternately distributed in location; the random access resources corresponding to different synchronization signal blocks in the second type of synchronization signal block are alternately distributed in location; the random access resources corresponding to the synchronization signal blocks in the first type of synchronization signal block and the random access resources corresponding to the synchronization signal blocks in the second type of synchronization signal block are alternately distributed in location; the random access resources corresponding to different synchronization signal blocks in W synchronization signal blocks are alternately distributed in location, where the W synchronization signal blocks are the first type of synchronization signal block and the second type of synchronization signal block, and W is an integer greater than 1.

[0018] Based on the above scheme, the alternating distribution can ensure that terminal devices in different SSB coverage areas do not have to wait too long when they need to initiate random access.

[0019] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations, the method further includes: receiving third indication information, which indicates the value of k.

[0020] Based on the above scheme, the proportion of random access resource allocation is indicated by the network device and can be dynamically adjusted as needed, making communication settings flexible and improving communication performance.

[0021] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations, the method further includes: receiving fourth indication information, the fourth indication information indicating the random access resource corresponding to the first type of synchronization signal block among the L random access resources and / or the random access resource corresponding to the second type of synchronization signal block among the L random access resources.

[0022] Based on the above scheme, the random access resources corresponding to the first type of signal block are determined by direct indication. The allocation method of random access resources in the two types of SSBs can be dynamically adjusted as needed, which can better meet the uneven random access requirements and improve communication performance.

[0023] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations, the method further includes: receiving fifth indication information, which indicates the random access resources corresponding to a portion of the synchronization signal blocks in the second type of synchronization signal blocks.

[0024] Based on the above scheme, the random access resources allocated to a portion of the second-type SSBs are determined through direct instruction. This allows for dynamic adjustment of the random access resource allocation method among each synchronization signal block as needed, thereby better meeting uneven random access requirements and improving communication performance. For example, where there are significant differences in random access requirements among multiple hotspot areas, with super-hotspot areas and sub-hotspot areas existing, this scheme can also be used to flexibly allocate resources to meet uneven demands.

[0025] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations, the method further includes: receiving sixth indication information, the sixth indication information indicating the correspondence between the first type of synchronization signal block and the random access resource and / or the correspondence between the second type of synchronization signal block and the random access resource.

[0026] Based on the above scheme, the correspondence is indicated by the network device and can be dynamically adjusted as needed, making communication settings flexible and improving communication performance.

[0027] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations, the first type of synchronization signal block and the second type of synchronization signal block satisfy at least one of the following: the beam types of the first type of synchronization signal block and the second type of synchronization signal block are different; the coverage area of ​​the first type of synchronization signal block includes the coverage area of ​​the second type of synchronization signal block.

[0028] Based on the above scheme, by designing two types of SSBs with different beams, the coverage of the cell area can be more targeted. The first type of SSB has a larger coverage area to meet the need for full coverage in satellite communication, while the second type of SSB has a smaller coverage area but more concentrated energy, serving as a supplement to meet the communication needs of hotspot areas, thereby solving the problem of uneven communication demand in the area caused by the large cell area in satellite communication.

[0029] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations, the method further includes: receiving a second synchronization signal block; wherein the first synchronization signal block belongs to the first type of synchronization signal block, and the second synchronization signal block belongs to the second type of synchronization signal block; or, the first synchronization signal block belongs to the second type of synchronization signal block, and the second synchronization signal block belongs to the first type of synchronization signal block.

[0030] Secondly, a communication method is provided for satellite communication. This method can be executed by a communication device. This communication device can be a network device, or a component for a network device (such as a chip, chip system, or circuit), or a logic module or software capable of implementing some or all of the functions of a network device, etc., and this application does not limit it in this regard.

[0031] The method may include: sending a first synchronization signal block, the first synchronization signal block belonging to the first type of synchronization signal block or the second type of synchronization signal block, the correspondence between the first type of synchronization signal block and the random access resource being different from the correspondence between the second type of synchronization signal block and the random access resource.

[0032] For a description of the beneficial effects of the second aspect, please refer to the description of the beneficial effects of the first aspect, which will not be repeated here.

[0033] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations, the method further includes configuring a first type of synchronization signal block and a second type of synchronization signal block.

[0034] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations, the method further includes: sending first indication information, the first indication information indicating that the first synchronization signal block belongs to the first type of synchronization signal block or the second type of synchronization signal block.

[0035] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations, the first type of synchronization signal block corresponds to M random access resources, and the second type of synchronization signal block corresponds to the M random access resources and N random access resources. The N random access resources are different from the M random access resources, and M and N are integers greater than or equal to 1.

[0036] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations, the M random access resources are periodically distributed in the time domain, and the N random access resources are aperiodically distributed in the time domain; or, the N random access resources are periodically distributed in the time domain, and the M random access resources and the N random access resources satisfy at least one of the following: different time periods, different start times, and different frequency domain distributions.

[0037] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations, the method further includes: sending second indication information, which indicates the M random access resources and / or the N random access resources.

[0038] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations, one synchronization signal block of the first type of synchronization signal block corresponds to x random access resources out of L random access resources, and one synchronization signal block of the second type of synchronization signal block corresponds to y random access resources out of the L random access resources, where y is k times x, k is greater than 1, and L is an integer greater than 1.

[0039] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations, the L random access resources are periodically distributed in location, and the L random access resources satisfy at least one of the following in location: the random access resources corresponding to different synchronization signal blocks in the first type of synchronization signal block are alternately distributed in location; the random access resources corresponding to different synchronization signal blocks in the second type of synchronization signal block are alternately distributed in location; the random access resources corresponding to the synchronization signal blocks in the first type of synchronization signal block and the random access resources corresponding to the synchronization signal blocks in the second type of synchronization signal block are alternately distributed in location; the random access resources corresponding to different synchronization signal blocks in W synchronization signal blocks are alternately distributed in location, where the W synchronization signal blocks are the first type of synchronization signal block and the second type of synchronization signal block, and W is an integer greater than 1.

[0040] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations, the method further includes: sending a third indication message that indicates the value of k.

[0041] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations, the method further includes: sending fourth indication information, the fourth indication information indicating the random access resource corresponding to the first type of synchronization signal block among the L random access resources and / or the random access resource corresponding to the second type of synchronization signal block among the L random access resources.

[0042] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations, the method further includes: sending a fifth indication message, which indicates the random access resources corresponding to a portion of the synchronization signal blocks in the second type of synchronization signal block.

[0043] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations, the method further includes: sending a sixth indication message, the sixth indication message indicating the correspondence between the first type of synchronization signal block and the random access resource and / or the correspondence between the second type of synchronization signal block and the random access resource.

[0044] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations, the first type of synchronization signal block and the second type of synchronization signal block satisfy at least one of the following: the beam types of the first type of synchronization signal block and the second type of synchronization signal block are different; the coverage area of ​​the first type of synchronization signal block includes the coverage area of ​​the second type of synchronization signal block.

[0045] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations, the method further includes: sending a second synchronization signal block; wherein the first synchronization signal block belongs to the first type of synchronization signal block, and the second synchronization signal block belongs to the second type of synchronization signal block; or, the first synchronization signal block belongs to the second type of synchronization signal block, and the second synchronization signal block belongs to the first type of synchronization signal block.

[0046] Thirdly, a communication method is provided for satellite communication. This method can be executed by a communication device. This communication device can be a terminal device, or a component for the terminal device (such as a chip or circuit, which can be a modem chip, also known as a baseband chip, or a system-on-chip (SoC) or system-in-package (SIP) chip containing a modem core, etc.), or a logic module or software capable of implementing some or all of the functions of the terminal device, etc.

[0047] The method may include: receiving a first synchronization signal block, the first synchronization signal block belonging to a first type of synchronization signal block or a second type of synchronization signal block; receiving first configuration information, the first configuration information being used to configure the first type of synchronization signal block and the second type of synchronization signal block, wherein the beam types of the first type of synchronization signal block and the second type of synchronization signal block are different, or the coverage area of ​​the first type of synchronization signal block includes the coverage area of ​​the second type of synchronization signal block.

[0048] For a description of the beneficial effects of the third aspect, please refer to the description of the beneficial effects of the first aspect, which will not be repeated here.

[0049] In conjunction with the third aspect, in some implementations, the correspondence between the first type of synchronization signal block and the random access resource differs from the correspondence between the second type of synchronization signal block and the random access resource.

[0050] In conjunction with the third aspect, in some implementations, the method further includes: receiving first indication information, the first indication information indicating that the first synchronization signal block belongs to the first type of synchronization signal block or the second type of synchronization signal block.

[0051] In conjunction with the third aspect, in some implementations, the first type of synchronization signal block corresponds to M random access resources, and the second type of synchronization signal block corresponds to the M random access resources and N random access resources. The N random access resources are different from the M random access resources, and M and N are integers greater than or equal to 1.

[0052] In conjunction with the third aspect, in some implementations, the M random access resources are periodically distributed in the time domain, and the N random access resources are aperiodically distributed in the time domain; or, the N random access resources are periodically distributed in the time domain, and the M random access resources and the N random access resources satisfy at least one of the following: different time periods, different start times, and different frequency domain distributions.

[0053] In conjunction with the third aspect, in some implementations, the method further includes: receiving second indication information, the second indication information indicating the M random access resources and / or the N random access resources.

[0054] In conjunction with the third aspect, in some implementations, one of the synchronization signal blocks of the first type corresponds to x random access resources out of L random access resources, and one of the synchronization signal blocks of the second type corresponds to y random access resources out of the L random access resources, where y is k times x, k is greater than 1, and L is an integer greater than 1.

[0055] In conjunction with the third aspect, in some implementations, the L random access resources are periodically distributed in location, and the L random access resources satisfy at least one of the following in location: the random access resources corresponding to different synchronization signal blocks in the first type of synchronization signal block are alternately distributed in location; the random access resources corresponding to different synchronization signal blocks in the second type of synchronization signal block are alternately distributed in location; the random access resources corresponding to the synchronization signal blocks in the first type of synchronization signal block and the random access resources corresponding to the synchronization signal blocks in the second type of synchronization signal block are alternately distributed in location; the random access resources corresponding to different synchronization signal blocks in W synchronization signal blocks are alternately distributed in location, where the W synchronization signal blocks are the first type of synchronization signal block and the second type of synchronization signal block, and W is an integer greater than 1.

[0056] In conjunction with the third aspect, in some implementations, the method further includes: receiving third indication information, which indicates the value of k.

[0057] In conjunction with the third aspect, in some implementations, the method further includes: receiving fourth indication information, the fourth indication information indicating the random access resource corresponding to the first type of synchronization signal block among the L random access resources and / or the random access resource corresponding to the second type of synchronization signal block among the L random access resources.

[0058] In conjunction with the third aspect, in some implementations, the method further includes: receiving fifth indication information, which indicates the random access resources corresponding to a portion of the synchronization signal blocks in the second type of synchronization signal block.

[0059] In conjunction with the third aspect, in some implementations, the method further includes: receiving sixth indication information, the sixth indication information indicating the correspondence between the first type of synchronization signal block and the random access resource and / or the correspondence between the second type of synchronization signal block and the random access resource.

[0060] Fourthly, a communication method is provided for satellite communication. This method can be executed by a communication device. This communication device can be a network device, or a component for a network device (such as a chip, chip system, or circuit), or a logic module or software capable of implementing some or all of the functions of a network device, etc., and this application does not limit the scope of the application.

[0061] The method may include: transmitting a first synchronization signal block, the first synchronization signal block belonging to the first type of synchronization signal block or the second type of synchronization signal block, the first type of synchronization signal block and the second type of synchronization signal block having different beam types, or the coverage area of ​​the first type of synchronization signal block including the coverage area of ​​the second type of synchronization signal block;

[0062] For a description of the beneficial effects in the fourth aspect, please refer to the description of the beneficial effects in the first aspect, which will not be repeated here.

[0063] In conjunction with the fourth aspect, in some implementations, the method further includes configuring a first type of synchronization signal block and a second type of synchronization signal block.

[0064] In conjunction with the fourth aspect, in some implementations, the correspondence between the first type of synchronization signal block and the random access resource is different from the correspondence between the second type of synchronization signal block and the random access resource.

[0065] In conjunction with the fourth aspect, in some implementations, the method further includes: sending first indication information, the first indication information indicating that the first synchronization signal block belongs to the first type of synchronization signal block or the second type of synchronization signal block.

[0066] In conjunction with the fourth aspect, in some implementations, the first type of synchronization signal block corresponds to M random access resources, and the second type of synchronization signal block corresponds to the M random access resources and N random access resources. The N random access resources are different from the M random access resources, and M and N are integers greater than or equal to 1.

[0067] In conjunction with the fourth aspect, in some implementations, the M random access resources are periodically distributed in the time domain, and the N random access resources are aperiodically distributed in the time domain; or, the N random access resources are periodically distributed in the time domain, and the M random access resources and the N random access resources satisfy at least one of the following: different time periods, different start times, and different frequency domain distributions.

[0068] In conjunction with the fourth aspect, in some implementations, the method further includes: sending second indication information, which indicates the M random access resources and / or the N random access resources.

[0069] In conjunction with the fourth aspect, in some implementations, one of the synchronization signal blocks of the first type corresponds to x random access resources out of L random access resources, and one of the synchronization signal blocks of the second type corresponds to y random access resources out of the L random access resources, where y is k times x, k is greater than 1, and L is an integer greater than 1.

[0070] In conjunction with the fourth aspect, in some implementations, the L random access resources are periodically distributed in location, and the L random access resources satisfy at least one of the following in location: the random access resources corresponding to different synchronization signal blocks in the first type of synchronization signal block are alternately distributed in location; the random access resources corresponding to different synchronization signal blocks in the second type of synchronization signal block are alternately distributed in location; the random access resources corresponding to the synchronization signal blocks in the first type of synchronization signal block and the random access resources corresponding to the synchronization signal blocks in the second type of synchronization signal block are alternately distributed in location; the random access resources corresponding to different synchronization signal blocks in W synchronization signal blocks are alternately distributed in location, where the W synchronization signal blocks are the first type of synchronization signal block and the second type of synchronization signal block, and W is an integer greater than 1.

[0071] In conjunction with the fourth aspect, in some implementations, the method further includes: sending a third indication message that indicates the value of k.

[0072] In conjunction with the fourth aspect, in some implementations, the method further includes: sending fourth indication information, the fourth indication information indicating the random access resource corresponding to the first type of synchronization signal block among the L random access resources and / or the random access resource corresponding to the second type of synchronization signal block among the L random access resources.

[0073] In conjunction with the fourth aspect, in some implementations, the method further includes: sending a fifth indication message, which indicates the random access resources corresponding to a portion of the synchronization signal blocks in the second type of synchronization signal block.

[0074] In conjunction with the fourth aspect, in some implementations, the method further includes: sending a sixth indication message, the sixth indication message indicating the correspondence between the first type of synchronization signal block and the random access resource and / or the correspondence between the second type of synchronization signal block and the random access resource.

[0075] In conjunction with the fourth aspect, in some implementations, the method further includes: sending a second synchronization signal block; wherein the first synchronization signal block belongs to the first type of synchronization signal block, and the second synchronization signal block belongs to the second type of synchronization signal block; or, the first synchronization signal block belongs to the second type of synchronization signal block, and the second synchronization signal block belongs to the first type of synchronization signal block.

[0076] Fifthly, a communication apparatus is provided for performing the method in any possible implementation of any of the first to fourth aspects described above. Specifically, the apparatus may include units and / or modules for performing the method in any possible implementation of any of the first to fourth aspects, such as processing units and / or communication units.

[0077] In one implementation, the device is a communication device (such as a terminal device or a network device). When the device is a communication device, the communication unit can be a transceiver or an input / output interface; the processing unit can be at least one processor. Optionally, the transceiver can be a transceiver circuit. Optionally, the input / output interface can be an input / output circuit.

[0078] In another implementation, the device is a chip, chip system, or circuit for communication equipment (such as terminal equipment or network equipment). When the device is a chip, chip system, or circuit for communication equipment, the communication unit can be an input / output interface, interface circuit, output circuit, input circuit, pin, or related circuit on the chip, chip system, or circuit; the processing unit can be at least one processor, processing circuit, or logic circuit.

[0079] A sixth aspect provides a communication device comprising: at least one processor for executing a computer program or instructions stored in a memory to perform a method in any of the possible implementations of the first to fourth aspects described above. Optionally, the device further comprises a memory for storing the computer program or instructions; correspondingly, the at least one processor is configured to execute the computer program or instructions in the memory. Optionally, the device further comprises a communication interface coupled to the processor, which can be used to input information to the processor or output information from the processor. Optionally, the processor reads the computer program or instructions from the memory through the communication interface.

[0080] In one implementation, the device is a communication device (such as a terminal device or a network device).

[0081] In another implementation, the device is a chip, chip system, or circuit for communication equipment (such as terminal equipment or network equipment).

[0082] A seventh aspect provides a processor for performing the methods provided in any one of the first to fourth aspects described above.

[0083] Unless otherwise specified, or if it does not contradict its actual function or internal logic in the relevant description, the transmission and acquisition / reception operations involved in the processor can be understood as processor output and reception, input and other operations, or as transmission and reception operations performed by radio frequency circuits and antennas. This application does not limit them in this regard.

[0084] Eighthly, a computer-readable storage medium is provided, on which a computer program or instructions are stored, which, when executed on a communication device, cause the communication device to perform the method provided in any one of the first to fourth aspects.

[0085] A ninth aspect provides a computer program product comprising a computer program or instructions for performing the methods of any possible implementation of the first or second aspect described above. In other words, when the computer program product is run on a computer, it causes the computer to perform the methods provided in any of the first to fourth aspects described above.

[0086] In a tenth aspect, a chip is provided, the chip including a processor and a communication interface, wherein the processor reads instructions from a memory through the communication interface and executes the method provided in any one of the first to fourth aspects.

[0087] Optionally, as one implementation, the chip further includes a memory storing computer programs or instructions, and a processor for executing the computer programs or instructions in the memory. When the computer programs or instructions are executed, the processor is used to perform the methods provided in any one of the first to fourth aspects described above.

[0088] Eleventhly, a communication system is provided, comprising the aforementioned first device (or first communication device) and second device (or second communication device). The first device is configured to execute the method provided in any implementation of the first aspect, and the second device is configured to execute the method provided in any implementation of the second aspect; or, the first device is configured to execute the method provided in any implementation of the third aspect, and the second device is configured to execute the method provided in any implementation of the fourth aspect. Attached Figure Description

[0089] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the architecture of the communication system 10 used in the embodiments of this application.

[0090] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of an NTN architecture applicable to an embodiment of this application.

[0091] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of a communication method 300 provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0092] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of cell distribution for different types of SSB beams provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0093] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram showing the correspondence between a first type of SSB, a second type of SSB, and random access resources provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0094] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram showing the correspondence between another type of first-class SSB and second-class SSB and random access resources provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0095] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram showing the correspondence between a first type of SSB, a second type of SSB, and random access resources provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0096] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram showing the correspondence between a first type of SSB, a second type of SSB, and random access resources provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0097] Figure 9 is a schematic diagram of a communication device 900 provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0098] Figure 10 is a schematic diagram of a communication device 1000 provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0099] Figure 11 is a schematic diagram of a chip system 1100 provided in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0100] The technical solutions in this application will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0101] Before introducing the scheme of this application, the following points should be noted.

[0102] (1) In this application, "instruction" can include direct instruction, indirect instruction, explicit instruction, implicit instruction, etc. When describing an instruction information as indicating A, it can be understood that the instruction information carries A, carries the identifier of A, carries B which is associated with A, carries the identifier of B which is associated with A, etc. In other words, if the receiving side of an instruction information can determine A based on the instruction information, it can be described as the instruction information indicating A, and the specific method of determination is not limited. When it is understood that the instruction information carries A, "instruction" can be replaced with "includes". In this case, a statement such as "send / receive instruction information, the instruction information indicates A" can be replaced with "send / receive A".

[0103] In this application, the information indicated by the instruction information is called the information to be instructed. In specific implementations, 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. It can also indirectly indicate the information to be instructed by indicating other information, where there is a relationship between the other information and the information to be instructed. It can also indicate only a part of the information to be instructed, while the other parts are known or pre-agreed upon. For example, the instruction of specific information can be achieved by using a pre-agreed (e.g., protocol-defined) arrangement of various pieces of information, thereby reducing instruction overhead to some extent. Furthermore, the information to be instructed can be sent as a whole or divided into multiple sub-information pieces, and the sending period and / or timing of these sub-information pieces can be the same or different.

[0104] (2) In this application, the expression " / " is used to indicate that the objects before and after are in an "or" relationship; for example, A / B can mean: A or B. The expression "and / or" is used to indicate that the objects before and after are in a relationship of either "and" or "or"; for example, A and / or B can mean the following: A exists alone, B exists alone, A and B exist simultaneously, where A and B can be single or multiple. "At least one of the following" or similar expressions are used to indicate any combination of the listed items; for example, at least one of A, B and / or C can mean the following: A exists alone, B exists alone, C exists alone, A and B exist simultaneously, B and C exist simultaneously, A and C exist simultaneously, A, B and C exist simultaneously, where A, B, and C can be single or multiple.

[0105] (3) In this application, "send" and "receive" indicate the direction of signal transmission. For example, "send information to XX" can be understood as the destination of the information being XX, which may include direct transmission via the air interface or indirect transmission by other units or modules via the air interface. "Receive information from YY" can be understood as the source of the information being YY, which may include direct reception from YY via the air interface or indirect reception from YY by other units or modules via the air interface. "Send" can also be understood as the "output" of the chip interface, and "receive" can also be understood as the "input" of the chip interface. In other words, sending and receiving can occur between devices, such as between network devices and terminal devices, or within a device, such as between components, modules, chips, software modules, or hardware modules within the device via a bus, wiring, or interface.

[0106] (4) In the various embodiments of this application, unless otherwise specified or in case of logical conflict, the terms and / or descriptions of different embodiments are consistent and can be referenced by each other. The technical features of different embodiments can be combined to form new embodiments according to their inherent logical relationship.

[0107] (5) In this application, "first" and "second" are used for descriptive convenience only to distinguish objects and are not intended to limit the scope of the embodiments of this application. They are not used to describe the order or sequence of features. It should be understood that the objects described in this way can be interchanged where appropriate so as to describe solutions other than those in the embodiments of this application.

[0108] (6) In this application, "predefined" can mean a standard protocol predefined, or it can mean a pre-agreed or pre-negotiated agreement between devices. Here, "protocol" can refer to a standard protocol in the field of communications, for example, it may include fourth-generation (4G) protocols. th Generation 4G network, fifth generation (5G) networkth This application does not limit the scope to network protocols such as 5G (generation, 5G), New Radio (NR), 5.5G, and related protocols applied in future communication networks.

[0109] (7) In this application, the configuration can be signaling configuration, such as radio resource control (RRC) messages, control information (such as downlink control information (DCI), uplink control information (UCI), or sidelink control information (SCI)), or medium access control (MAC) signaling (e.g., MAC control element (MAC CE / MAC-CE)). As an example, signaling configuration can be configured by signaling to the device. For example, when a network device configures an SSB, it can be understood that the network device instructs the terminal device on the relevant information of the SSB through signaling.

[0110] (8) In this application, the terms "exemplary," "for example," etc., are used to indicate examples, illustrations, or descriptions. Any embodiment or design described as an "example" in this application should not be construed as being more preferred or advantageous than other embodiments or designs. Specifically, the use of the term "example" is intended to present a concept in a concrete manner. In the embodiments of this application, "of," "corresponding, relevant," and "corresponding" may sometimes be used interchangeably, and it should be noted that their intended meanings are consistent unless their distinction is emphasized.

[0111] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the architecture of the communication system 10 used in an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 1, the communication system includes a radio access network (RAN) 100. Optionally, the communication system 10 may also include a core network 200 and an Internet 300.

[0112] RAN100 may include at least one RAN node (as shown in Figure 1, 110a and 110b, collectively referred to as 110), and at least one terminal (as shown in Figure 1, 120a-120j, collectively referred to as 120). RAN100 may also include other RAN nodes, such as wireless relay equipment and / or wireless backhaul equipment (not shown in Figure 1). Terminal 120 is wirelessly connected to RAN node 110. Terminals and RAN nodes can be interconnected via wired or wireless means. RAN node 110 is wirelessly or wired connected to core network 200. The core network equipment in core network 200 and RAN node 110 in RAN100 can be independent and different physical devices, or they can be the same physical device integrating some or all of the logical functions of the core network equipment and some or all of the logical functions of the RAN node.

[0113] RAN100 can be an evolved universal terrestrial radio access (E-UTRA) system, NR system, future communications system, or future radio access system as defined in the 3rd generation partnership project (3GPP), or a wireless fidelity (WiFi) system. RAN100 can also include two or more of the above-mentioned different radio access systems. RAN100 can also be an open RAN (O-RAN).

[0114] RAN nodes, also known as radio access network devices, RAN entities, or access nodes, are used to help terminals access communication systems wirelessly. In one application scenario, an RAN node can be a base station, an evolved NodeB (eNodeB), a transmission reception point (TRP), a next-generation NodeB (gNB) in a 5G mobile communication system, a next-generation base station in a future communication system, a base station in a future mobile communication system, or an access node in a WiFi system. RAN nodes can be macro base stations (as shown in Figure 1, 110a), micro base stations or indoor stations (as shown in Figure 1, 110b), relay nodes, or donor nodes.

[0115] In another application scenario, multiple RAN nodes can collaborate to help terminals achieve wireless access, with different RAN nodes implementing different functions of the base station. For example, a RAN node can be a central unit (CU), a distributed unit (DU), or a radio unit (RU). Here, the CU performs the functions of the base station's Radio Resource Control (RRC) and Packet Data Convergence Protocol (PDCP), and can also perform the functions of the Service Data Adaptation Protocol (SDAP). The DU performs the functions of the base station's Radio Link Control (RANC) and Medium Access Control (MAC) layers, and can also perform some or all of the physical layer functions. For specific descriptions of these protocol layers, refer to the relevant 3GPP technical specifications. The RU can be used to implement radio frequency signal transmission and reception. The CU and DU can be two independent RAN nodes, or they can be integrated into the same RAN node, such as within a baseband unit (BBU). RUs can be included in radio frequency equipment, such as remote radio units (RRUs) or active antenna units (AAUs). CUs can be further divided into two types of RAN nodes: CU-control plane and CU-user plane.

[0116] In different systems, RAN nodes can have different names. For example, in an O-RAN system, a CU can also be called an open CU (O-CU), a DU can also be called an open DU (O-DU), and an RU can be called an open RU (O-RU). In this application, the RAN node can be implemented through software modules, hardware modules, or a combination of software and hardware modules. For example, the RAN node can be a server loaded with the corresponding software modules. The embodiments of this application do not limit the specific technology or device form used in the RAN node. For ease of description, a network device or base station is used as an example of a RAN node below.

[0117] A terminal is a device with wireless transceiver capabilities, capable of sending signals to or receiving signals from a base station. Terminals can also be called terminal equipment, user equipment (UE), mobile station, mobile terminal, etc. Terminals can be widely used in various scenarios, such as device-to-device (D2D), vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication, machine-type communication (MTC), Internet of Things (IoT), virtual reality, augmented reality, industrial control, autonomous driving, telemedicine, smart grids, smart furniture, smart offices, smart wearables, smart transportation, smart cities, etc. Terminals can be mobile phones, tablets, computers with wireless transceiver capabilities, wearable devices, vehicles, airplanes, ships, robots, robotic arms, smart home devices, etc. The embodiments of this application do not limit the specific technology or device form used in the terminal.

[0118] Base stations and terminals can be fixed or mobile. They can be deployed on land, including indoors or outdoors, handheld or vehicle-mounted; they can also be deployed on water; and they can be deployed on aircraft, balloons, and satellites. The embodiments of this application do not limit the application scenarios of the base stations and terminals.

[0119] The roles of base stations and terminals can be relative. For example, the helicopter or drone 120i in Figure 1 can be configured as a mobile base station. For terminals 120j that access the wireless access network 100 through 120i, terminal 120i is a base station; however, for base station 110a, 120i is a terminal, meaning that 110a and 120i communicate via a wireless air interface protocol. Of course, 110a and 120i can also communicate via a base station-to-base station interface protocol. In this case, relative to 110a, 120i is also a base station. Therefore, both base stations and terminals can be collectively referred to as communication devices. 110a and 110b in Figure 1 can be called communication devices with base station functions, and 120a-120j in Figure 1 can be called communication devices with terminal functions.

[0120] Communication between base stations and terminals, between base stations, and between terminals can be conducted using licensed spectrum, unlicensed spectrum, or both simultaneously. Communication can be conducted using spectrum below 6 GHz, spectrum above 6 GHz, or both simultaneously. The embodiments of this application do not limit the spectrum resources used for wireless communication.

[0121] In the embodiments of this application, the functions of the base station can be executed by modules (such as chips) within the base station, or by a control subsystem that includes base station functions. This control subsystem, including base station functions, can be a control center in the aforementioned application scenarios such as smart grids, industrial control, intelligent transportation, and smart cities. Similarly, the functions of the terminal can be executed by modules (such as chips or modems) within the terminal, or by a device that includes terminal functions.

[0122] In this application, the base station sends downlink signals or downlink information to the terminal, with the downlink information carried on the downlink channel; the terminal sends uplink signals or uplink information to the base station, with the uplink information carried on the uplink channel. In order to communicate with the base station, the terminal needs to establish a radio connection with a cell controlled by the base station. The cell with which the terminal has established a radio connection is called the terminal's serving cell. When the terminal communicates with this serving cell, it is also subject to interference from signals from neighboring cells.

[0123] As an example, a RAN node can be a satellite base station in a non-terrestrial network (NTN) system, as illustrated below with reference to Figure 2.

[0124] In this context, an NTN system can refer to a communication network that uses airborne or space-based platforms as relay nodes or base stations for transmission equipment. Airborne or space-based platforms include, but are not limited to, drones, hot air balloons, airplanes, and satellites. An NTN system can also be called a satellite communication system. Furthermore, an NTN system can also include high-altitude platform station (HAPS) communication systems.

[0125] In practical network deployments, terrestrial networks cannot cover all areas, especially sparsely populated regions such as deserts, oceans, and the Arctic and Antarctic. Non-terrestrial networks (NTNs) offer wider coverage and are easier to deploy in sparsely populated areas, making them suitable for deployment in such locations.

[0126] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of an NTN architecture applicable to an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 2, taking satellite communication as an example, this scenario may include: a terminal, 5G access network equipment, a ground station (gateway, GW), a 5G core network, etc. The ground terminal can access the network through an air interface, which can be various types of air interfaces, such as a 5G air interface. The 5G access network equipment can be deployed on the satellite, and the satellite is connected to the ground station through a wireless link. The ground station can be connected to the ground core network through a wired or wireless link. Simultaneously, wireless links can exist between satellites. If the satellite only has a transparent transmission function (i.e., the corresponding access network equipment is deployed on the ground), then only the transparent transmission and forwarding function is implemented between satellites; if the base station or some base station functions are deployed on the satellite, then signaling interaction and user data transmission between access network equipment can be completed between satellites. The various network elements in Figure 1 and the interfaces between network elements are described as follows:

[0127] Terminal equipment: Please refer to the description of terminal equipment above. This terminal equipment can access the satellite network via the air interface and initiate services such as making calls and accessing the Internet.

[0128] 5G access network equipment: mainly provides wireless access services, allocates wireless resources to access terminals, and provides reliable wireless transmission protocols and data encryption protocols, etc.

[0129] 5G Core Network: Provides functions such as user access control, mobility management, session management, user security authentication, and billing. The 5G core network can be composed of multiple functional units (network elements), which can be divided into control plane and data plane functional entities. For example, the 5G core network includes access and mobility management (AMF) network elements, mainly responsible for user access management and control, user security authentication, and mobility management; user plane function (UPF) network elements, mainly responsible for managing user plane data transmission and traffic statistics; and session management function (SMF) network elements, mainly responsible for control plane functions such as terminal device session management.

[0130] Ground station: Responsible for forwarding signaling and service data between 5G access network equipment and 5G core network.

[0131] 5G New Radio: The wireless link between terminal equipment and 5G access network equipment.

[0132] Xn interface: The interface between 5G access network devices, mainly used for signaling interaction such as handover.

[0133] NG interface: The interface between 5G access network equipment and 5G core network equipment. It mainly interacts with the non-access stratum (NAS) signaling of the core network and user service data.

[0134] To facilitate understanding of the embodiments of this application, the following will introduce the background knowledge and concepts related to the technical solutions provided in this application:

[0135] 1. Random access (RA):

[0136] In a communication system, a terminal device completes uplink time synchronization with the base station through a random access procedure and establishes a radio resource control (RRC) connection with the base station through the same procedure. Once the terminal device and network device have established an RRC connection, uplink and downlink service data transmission can proceed. Additionally, before initiating uplink random access, the terminal device typically detects and receives downlink synchronization signals from the network device to complete downlink time and frequency synchronization. These downlink synchronization signals generally include a primary synchronization signal (PSS) and a secondary synchronization signal (SSS). For example, the PSS and SSS are carried in a synchronization signal block (SSB), which provides the UE with cell downlink synchronization and basic configuration information for the access cell.

[0137] There are two types of random access procedures: Type-1 and Type-2. Type-1 is also known as a four-step random access procedure, and Type-2 is also known as a two-step random access procedure. Depending on whether there is a conflict in the transmission of the preamble between terminal devices, Type-1 and / or Type-2 RA procedures include contention-based random access (CBRA) and contention-free random access (CFRA).

[0138] 2. Random access resources:

[0139] Random access resources are communication resources used in a communication system to implement the random access procedure. For example, random access resources can be time-frequency resources. These time-frequency resources can include resources in the time domain (i.e., time-domain resources) and resources in the frequency domain (i.e., frequency-domain resources).

[0140] In the time domain, time-domain resources can include one or more time-domain units (or time units), and a time unit can include several time-domain resources. A time-domain unit is, for example, a radio frame (RF). The time-domain resources included within a time-domain unit can be, for example, a subframe, a frame, a half-subframe or half-frame, a slot, a mini-slot, a partial slot, or an orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) symbol. Alternatively, a time-domain unit may also be a collection of one or more time-domain resources, such as one or more OFDM symbols within a time slot, for example, the number of such symbols could be 6, 7, 12, or 14. One or more time units can be continuous or discrete in time. Furthermore, the duration of a time slot can be related to the sub-carrier space (SCS) spacing. For example, when the subcarrier spacing is 15kHz, the duration of one time slot is 1 millisecond (ms); when the subcarrier spacing is 30kHz, the duration of one time slot is 0.5ms; and when the subcarrier spacing is 60kHz, the duration of one time slot is 0.25ms. Similarly, it can be deduced that when the subcarrier spacing is 15×2... μ At kHz, the duration of one time slot is 2. μ ms, μ = 0, 1, 2, ..., μ is a non-negative integer.

[0141] In the frequency domain, frequency domain resources can include one or more frequency domain units. A frequency domain unit can be a resource element (RE), a resource block (RB), a subchannel, a resource pool, a bandwidth, a bandwidth part (BWP), a carrier (CC), a channel, or an interlaced RB, etc.

[0142] 3. Random access resources are associated with SSB:

[0143] During random access, there is a relationship between random access resources and Service Stubs (SSBs). For example, taking time-domain resources as an example, there is a relationship between SSBs and random access occasions (RACH occasions, ROs), where ROs can be considered as time-frequency resources used for random access.

[0144] For example, the terminal device randomly selects a Resource Oriented (RO) associated with the selected SSB index based on the received system message and the index of the selected SSB. Here, the RO is a time-frequency resource used for transmitting a preamble sequence. The network device pre-configures the association between ROs and SSB indices; a certain RO is used to send the preamble, i.e., message 1 (Msg1). After determining the time-frequency resource (or RO), the terminal device selects a preamble sequence from the selected ROs to send.

[0145] During the Msg1 transmission process described above, the UE can select an RO (Real Estate Order) to transmit the preamble sequence based on the SSB (Security Service Bus) index. Therefore, the communication standard specifies the RO-SSB mapping relationship (one SSB index can be associated with multiple ROs, or multiple SSB indices can be associated with one RO). For example, network devices can configure the mapping relationship from N SSBs to one RO through higher-layer parameters. When N is less than 1, one SSB is associated with 1 / N ROs; when N is greater than 1, N SSBs are associated with one RO (one SSB is associated with 1 / N ROs). For instance, when N = 1 / 2, one SSB is associated with two ROs; when N = 2, one RO is associated with two SSBs. Therefore, when one SSB index is associated with multiple ROs, the UE can select one of the multiple ROs and choose the preamble sequence to transmit on that RO.

[0146] 4. Beam:

[0147] A beam is a communication resource. Different beams can be considered different resources. The same information or different information can be transmitted through different beams.

[0148] In the NR protocol, beams can be represented as spatial domain filters, or spatial filters or spatial parameters. The beam used to transmit signals can be called the transmission beam (Tx beam), and the beam used to receive signals can be called the reception beam (Rx beam).

[0149] The transmit beam can refer to the distribution of signal strength in different directions in space after a signal is transmitted through an antenna, while the receive beam can refer to the distribution of signal strength in different directions in space of a wireless signal received from an antenna.

[0150] Furthermore, the beam can be a wide beam, a narrow beam, or other types of beam. The beamforming technology can be beamforming technology or other technologies. Specifically, beamforming technology can be digital beamforming technology, analog beamforming technology, or hybrid digital / analog beamforming technology, etc.

[0151] As an example, multiple beams with the same or similar communication characteristics can be considered as a single beam.

[0152] A beam can correspond to one or more antenna ports, used for transmitting data channels, control channels, and detection signals. The one or more antenna ports corresponding to a beam can also be regarded as a set of antenna ports.

[0153] As an example, in some communication systems, random access procedures are transmitted based on beams. For instance, for a UE in the initial access phase, its transmission is primarily based on SSB beams. The network device can transmit SSBs in multiple beam directions, with SSBs in different beam directions corresponding to the same number of random access resources. The UE selects one of the received SSBs for transmission.

[0154] In existing standards, network devices broadcast cell-level information in different beam directions, indicating the content of the SSBs in the corresponding beam directions. Since the content of this cell-level information is the same across different beam directions, the SSBs in different beam directions within a cell contain identical information, except for the index they carry. For example, the number of random access resources corresponding to the SSBs in different beam directions within a cell is the same.

[0155] However, as described in the background section, in satellite communication scenarios, the service demand distribution in different beam directions of a cell is very uneven, and broadcasting the same content on different SSB beams will result in resource waste.

[0156] In view of this, this application proposes to adopt two different SSB types to meet the communication access requirements of NTN cells. This application proposes the correspondence between different SSB types and random access resources, more rationally allocating random access resources to better meet the unevenly distributed random access requirements in satellite communication scenarios. The technical solution proposed in this application achieves savings in SSB communication resources and improves communication performance in hotspot areas.

[0157] The methods provided by the embodiments of this application will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The embodiments provided by this application can be applied to the scenarios shown in the figures above, and are not limited thereto. Furthermore, the terms used below are as explained above and will not be repeated hereafter. For ease of description, terminal devices and network devices are used as examples for illustrative purposes. The terminal device can be replaced by a terminal device or a component of a terminal device (e.g., a chip, chip system, circuit, or communication module), and the network device can be replaced by a component of a network device (e.g., a chip, chip system, circuit, or communication module). Furthermore, the steps described below as being performed by a single execution entity can also be divided into steps performed by multiple execution entities, which can be logically and / or physically separated.

[0158] Referring to Figure 3, as an example, Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of a communication method 300 provided in an embodiment of this application. The communication method 300 may include the following steps. Among them, the mandatory step includes S320; the optional steps include S310 and S330.

[0159] S310, the network device is configured with Type I SSB and Type II SSB. The Type I SSB and Type II SSB can satisfy at least one of the following: the Type I SSB and Type II SSB have different beam types; the coverage area of ​​the Type I SSB and Type II SSB are different; the correspondence between the Type I SSB and random access resources is different from the correspondence between the Type II SSB and random access resources. This will be discussed in more detail later.

[0160] It should be noted that the terms "Type I SSB" and "Type II SSB" are merely names used for ease of explanation of two different types of SSBs and do not constitute any limitation on this application. Type I SSB and Type II SSB may also be referred to as "Type I SSB" and "Type II SSB," or other names; furthermore, when the physical characteristics of Type I SSB and Type II SSB differ, they may also be referred to as "wide beam" and "narrow beam," or "wide beam" and "hot spot beam," or other names.

[0161] In S320, the terminal device receives SSB#1 (also known as the first synchronization signal block); correspondingly, the network device sends SSB#1. SSB#1 belongs to either a Type I SSB or a Type II SSB.

[0162] Optionally, the terminal device receives N SSBs, including SSB#1. These N SSBs may belong to either the first type of SSB or the second type of SSB, where N is an integer greater than 1. For example, the terminal device receives N SSBs, which include at least SSB#1 and SSB#2. Specifically, SSB#1 belongs to the first type of SSB, and SSB#2 belongs to the second type of SSB; or, SSB#1 belongs to the second type of SSB, and SSB#2 belongs to the first type of SSB; or, both SSB#1 and SSB#2 belong to the second type of SSB; or, both SSB#1 and SSB#2 belong to the first type of SSB.

[0163] Optionally, method 300 further includes: the terminal device receiving indication information #1 (also referred to as first indication information); correspondingly, the network device sending indication information #1. Indication information #1 is used to indicate whether SSB #1 belongs to a first type SSB or a second type SSB.

[0164] As one possible implementation, indication information #1 can indicate the type of multiple SSBs, including SSB #1. For example, indication information #1 can indicate the type of each SSB in the cell where the network device is located. Here, the cell can refer to an area with the same physical cell identity (PCI).

[0165] It should be understood that instruction message #1 indicates the type of SSB. Instruction message #1 can directly indicate that the SSB belongs to Class I or Class II SSB, or it can indirectly indicate the type of SSB. The following explanation combines both methods.

[0166] First, let's give an example of a direct instruction.

[0167] As an example, indication information #1 can be implemented using at least one bit. For instance, if indication information #1 indicates the type of four SSBs, including SSB #1, it can be implemented using a 4-bit bitmap. Specifically, each bit (or each bit position) in the bitmap corresponds to one SSB. A first value indicates that the SSB corresponding to the current bit position belongs to the first type of SSB, and a second value indicates that the SSB corresponding to the current bit position belongs to the second type of SSB. The first and second values ​​are different; for example, the first value is "0" and the second value is "1"; or the first value is "1" and the second value is "0".

[0168] For example, suppose each bit of the bitmap corresponds to a SSB, and the bit mapping from left to right corresponds to SSB#1, SSB#2, SSB#3, and SSB#4 respectively. A bit value of "1" indicates that the SSB belongs to the first type of SSB, and a bit value of "0" indicates that the SSB belongs to the second type of SSB. If the bitmap is represented as {1100}, then it can be determined that SSB#1 and SSB#2 belong to the first type of SSB, and SSB#3 and SSB#4 belong to the second type of SSB. Therefore, the terminal device can determine the type of SSB#1, SSB#2, SSB#3, and SSB#4 based on the received bitmap.

[0169] The following are examples of indirect instructions.

[0170] As an example, indication information #1 can indicate the index of an SSB using at least one bit. The index of the SSB further indicates whether the SSB belongs to the first type or the second type of SSB. For instance, suppose the SSB index starts from 1 and increments by 1 each time; the network device and the terminal device agree in advance that the index of the first type of SSB is placed before the index of the second type of SSB; and through indication by the network device or a method agreed upon in advance by the network device and the terminal device, the terminal device knows that there are x first type SSBs in the cell, where x can be any integer greater than 1; in this case, indication information #1 indicates the index of the SSB. If the SSB's index is less than x, it indicates that the SSB belongs to the first type of SSB; otherwise, it indicates that the SSB belongs to the second type of SSB.

[0171] Optionally, method 300 further includes: the terminal device receiving indication information #2; correspondingly, the network device sending indication information #2. The indication information #2 is used to indicate the index of SSB#1.

[0172] The SSB index identifies the SSB; in other words, different SSBs have different indices. For example, the index of a given SSB can be unique within a certain range. As an example, this "certain range" can refer to a specific cell, such as an area with the same Physical Cell Identity (PCI). The SSB index can also be called the SSB number, SSB identifier, or SSB sequence number, etc.

[0173] As an example, indication information #2 can be implemented using at least one bit. For instance, if the network device might send four SSBs, including SSB#1, indication information #1 can be implemented using two bits. For example, if the index of SSB#1 is 1, the index of SSB#2 is 2, the index of SSB#3 is 3, and the index of SSB#4 is 4, then indication information #2 can use "00" to represent index 1 (corresponding to SSB#1); "01" to represent index 2 (corresponding to SSB#2); "10" to represent index 3 (corresponding to SSB#3); and "11" to represent index 4 (corresponding to SSB#4). Therefore, the terminal device can determine the SSB index based on the bit values ​​of the received indication information #2.

[0174] The following sections introduce several solutions, combining Type I and Type II SSBs. These solutions can be used individually or in combination.

[0175] Option 1: The beam types of Type I SSB and Type II SSB are different.

[0176] Optionally, the difference in beam types between Type I SSB and Type II SSB lies in the different physical characteristics of their beams. For example, Type I SSB may have a wide beam, while Type II SSB may have a narrow beam. For instance, the coverage area of ​​Type I SSB may be larger than that of Type II SSB; consequently, the energy dispersion of Type I SSB may be higher than that of Type II SSB; furthermore, the signal quality of Type II SSB may be higher than that of Type I SSB.

[0177] Option 2: The coverage areas of Category I SSB and Category II SSB are different.

[0178] Referring to Figure 4, as an example, Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of cell distribution of different types of SSB beams provided in an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 4, there is at least one first-type SSB and / or at least one second-type SSB in a cell, and the coverage areas of the first-type SSB and the second-type SSB may overlap. Exemplarily, the coverage area of ​​the first-type SSB includes the coverage area of ​​the second-type SSB.

[0179] As one possible implementation, the second type of SSB is configured to cover hotspot areas, while the first type of SSB is configured to cover more areas within the cell, including both hotspot and non-hotspot areas. Hotspot areas are defined as areas with high random access demand. For example, the average number of random access requests per unit area in a hotspot area over a period of time is more than twice the average number of random access requests per unit area of ​​the entire cell over the same period. Another example is that the average number of random access requests per unit area in a hotspot area over a period of time exceeds a specified threshold.

[0180] In this scenario, Type I SSBs offer wider coverage, allowing for improved cell coverage with fewer Type I SSBs. Type II SSBs, while having smaller coverage, offer better link budget and higher communication quality. Therefore, placing them in hotspot areas better meets the access needs and link performance of these areas. Setting up both types of SSBs in this way saves resources and improves performance for users in hotspot areas.

[0181] Scheme 3: The correspondence between Type I SSBs and random access resources differs from that between Type II SSBs and random access resources.

[0182] Optionally, the correspondence between the first type of SSB and random access resources differs from that between the second type of SSB and random access resources. The correspondence between SSB and random access resources is used to determine random access resources based on the SSB. For example, a specified index of SSB can be associated with a specified random access resource, allowing terminal devices within the coverage area of ​​that specified index of SSB to initiate random access requests through the specified random access resource.

[0183] Optionally, random access resources may include resources in the time domain (i.e., time domain resources) and / or resources in the frequency domain (i.e., frequency domain resources). For example, random access resources may be ROs.

[0184] Optionally, method 300 further includes: the terminal device receiving indication information #3 (also referred to as the sixth indication information); correspondingly, the network device sending indication information #3. Indication information #3 is used to indicate the correspondence between the first type of SSB and the random access resource and / or the correspondence between the second type of SSB and the random access resource.

[0185] As an example, instruction #3 can be implemented with at least one bit.

[0186] For example, indication information #3 can be implemented with 1 bit. Indication information #3 can be "0" to indicate that the correspondence between the first type of SSB and the random access resource is determined based on correspondence rule #1, and the correspondence between the second type of SSB and the random access resource is also determined based on correspondence rule #1. Indication information #3 can be "1" to indicate that the correspondence between the first type of SSB and the random access resource is determined based on correspondence rule #2, while the correspondence between the second type of SSB and the random access resource is determined based on correspondence rule #3.

[0187] For example, indication information #3 can be implemented with 1 bit. Indication information #3 can be "0" to indicate that the correspondence between the first type of SSB and the random access resource is determined based on correspondence rule #1, while the correspondence between the second type of SSB and the random access resource is determined based on correspondence rule #2; indication information #3 can be "1" to indicate that the correspondence between the first type of SSB and the random access resource is determined based on correspondence rule #3, while the correspondence between the second type of SSB and the random access resource is determined based on correspondence rule #4.

[0188] For example, indication information #3 can be implemented using 2 bits. Indication information #2 can be represented by "00" to indicate that the correspondence between the first type of SSB and the random access resource is determined based on correspondence rule #1, and the correspondence between the second type of SSB and the random access resource is also determined based on correspondence rule #1. Indication information #3 can be represented by "01" to indicate that the correspondence between the first type of SSB and the random access resource is determined based on correspondence rule #2, while the correspondence between the second type of SSB and the random access resource is determined based on correspondence rule #3. Indication information #3 can be represented by "10" and "11" to indicate that the correspondence between the first type of SSB and the random access resource is determined based on correspondence rule #4, while the correspondence between the second type of SSB and the random access resource is determined based on correspondence rule #5.

[0189] As an example, the above-mentioned correspondence rules may include limiting the number of correspondences between different SSBs and random access resources to uniform or non-uniform correspondences, such as corresponding according to a specific ratio or corresponding according to the instructions of the network device. As an example, the above-mentioned correspondence rules may include limiting the correspondence order between different SSBs and random access resources to alternating correspondences, cross correspondences, continuous correspondences, or corresponding according to the instructions of the network device.

[0190] For example, indication information #1 and / or indication information #2 and / or indication information #3 can be sent by broadcast. More exemplaryly, indication information #1 and / or indication information #2 and / or indication information #3 can be sent via periodic broadcasting or non-periodic broadcasting (such as on-demand triggered broadcasting).

[0191] It should be noted that any two of the instruction information #1, instruction information #2 and instruction information #3 can be carried in one signaling message or in different signaling messages.

[0192] As an example, a network device may send SSB#1 periodically, for example, by broadcasting it at fixed time intervals in a specific area or angle. A network device may also send multiple SSBs, including SSB#1 and SSB#2. The sending periods of SSB#1 and SSB#2 may be the same or different. Different sending periods could mean different time intervals between sending SSB#1 and SSB#2, or the same time intervals but different time windows.

[0193] Optionally, under scheme 3, method 300 further includes: S330, the terminal device performs random access based on the random access resource corresponding to SSB#1.

[0194] For example, the terminal device selects the random access resource corresponding to the received SSB to initiate random access. For instance, the terminal device randomly selects the RO associated with the received SSB index and type, and then transmits a preamble on the selected RO to begin the random access procedure.

[0195] The following will describe in detail, with reference to the accompanying drawings, the correspondence between the first type of SSB and the second type of SSB provided in the embodiments of this application and the random access resources.

[0196] As one possible implementation, the first type of SSB corresponds to M random access resources, and the second type of SSB corresponds to both the M random access resources and N random access resources. Here, the N random access resources are different from the M random access resources, and M and N are integers greater than or equal to 1.

[0197] Referring to Figures 5 and 6, as examples, Figure 5 is a schematic diagram illustrating the correspondence between a first type of SSB, a second type of SSB, and random access resources according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 6 is a schematic diagram illustrating another correspondence between a first type of SSB, a second type of SSB, and random access resources according to an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 5 or Figure 6, there are four SSBs, where SSB0 belongs to the first type of SSB, and SSB1, SSB2, and SSB3 all belong to the second type of SSB. There are two sets of random access resources, where the first set of random access resources (equivalent to the aforementioned M random access resources) corresponds to all four SSBs; the second set of random access resources (equivalent to the aforementioned N random access resources) corresponds only to the three SSBs belonging to the second type of SSB.

[0198] It should be noted that, for ease of explanation, Figure 5 or Figure 6 uses the example of one SSB corresponding to multiple random access resources, which does not constitute a limitation of this application. Multiple SSBs can correspond to one random access resource, or one SSB can correspond to one random access resource. For details, please refer to the section on the association between random access resources and SSBs in the conceptual introduction; it will not be repeated here. The same principle applies to the correspondence between other SSBs and random access resources mentioned below, and will not be repeated here.

[0199] Optionally, the M random access resources (i.e., the first set of random access resources) are periodically distributed in the time domain, and the N random access resources (i.e., the second set of random access resources) are aperiodically distributed in the time domain.

[0200] Optionally, M random access resources are periodically distributed in the time domain, and N random access resources are periodically distributed in the time domain.

[0201] As one possible implementation, the M random access resources and N random access resources satisfy at least one of the following: different time periods, different start times, and different frequency domain distributions.

[0202] The following explanations will be based on examples from Figure 5 or Figure 6.

[0203] The time periods of the first set of random access resources and the second set of random access resources are different. For example, as shown in Figure 5 or Figure 6, the time interval between two consecutive resources in the first set of random access resources is a first duration; the time interval between two consecutive resources in the second set of random access resources is a second duration, and the first duration is shorter than the second duration.

[0204] The first and second sets of random access resources have different start times. For example, as shown in Figure 5, taking the first random access resource on the left as the starting point, the start time of the first set of random access resources is earlier than the start time of the second set of random access resources. Further exemplarily, because the start times of the first and second sets of random access resources are different, their time windows are also different; that is, any given time point belongs to only one of the first or second sets of random access resources.

[0205] The frequency domain distributions of the first set of random access resources and the second set of random access resources are different. For example, as shown in Figure 6, the vertical direction is the frequency domain direction. It can be seen that the frequency domain position of the first set of random access resources is different from that of the second set of random access resources.

[0206] Optionally, the M random access resources corresponding to the first type of SSB and the second type of SSB (i.e., the first set of random access resources) are distributed alternately in location, and the N random access resources corresponding to the second type of SSB (i.e., the second set of random access resources) are also distributed alternately in location. Alternating distribution means that among the multiple random access resources corresponding to the same SSB, at least two random access resources exist alongside another random access resource corresponding to a different SSB. For example, alternating distribution could mean that random access resources corresponding to different SSBs are distributed in turn according to the SSB index.

[0207] For example, consider SSB0, SSB1, and SSB2. SSB0 belongs to the first type of SSB and corresponds to random access resources r1 and r2 in the first set of random access resources. SSB1 belongs to the second type of SSB and corresponds to random access resources r3 and r4 in the first set of random access resources, and random access resources r1 and r2 in the second set of random access resources. SSB3 belongs to the second type of SSB and SSB2 corresponds to random access resources r5 and r6 in the first set of random access resources, and random access resources r3 and r4 in the second set of random access resources. Then, the location distribution order of the first set of random access resources is r1, r3, r5, r2, r4, r6; and the location distribution order of the second set of random access resources is R1, R3, R2, R4.

[0208] For example, the alternating distribution in position can be an alternating distribution in the time domain, an alternating distribution in the frequency domain, or an alternating distribution in both the time domain and the frequency domain.

[0209] As one possible implementation, the network device is configured with K SSBs (including Type 1 SSBs and / or Type 2 SSBs) and two sets of random access resources, namely the first set of random access resources and the second set of random access resources. Wherein, if the K SSBs do not include Type 2 SSBs, the second set of resources is inactive, and K is an integer greater than 0. The K SSBs are mapped to the first set of random access resources in turn according to their indices; if Type 2 SSBs exist, the Type 2 SSBs among the K SSBs are then mapped to the second set of random access resources in turn according to their indices.

[0210] In one possible implementation, after receiving an SSB, if the SSB is a first-type SSB, the terminal device determines its corresponding random access resource in the first set of random access resources according to the SSB index, and the terminal device can initiate random access in one or more of the determined random access resources; if the SSB is a second-type SSB, the terminal device determines its corresponding random access resource in the first set of random access resources and the second set of random access resources respectively according to the SSB index, and the terminal device can initiate random access in one or more of the random access resources determined in the first set of random access resources, or in one or more of the random access resources determined in the second set of random access resources.

[0211] For example, there exists a first set of random access resources in positional order: r1, r2, r3, r4, r5, r6, and a second set of random access resources: R1, R2, R3, R4. When a terminal device receives an SSB, if there are a total of 3 SSBs, and the SSB's index is 0 (starting from 0) and belongs to the first type of SSB, then the corresponding random access resources are r1 and r4, and the terminal device can choose one of them to initiate random access. If the SSB's index is 1 (starting from 0) and belongs to the second type of SSB, then the corresponding random access resources are r2, r5, R1, and R3, and the terminal device can choose one of them to initiate random access.

[0212] Optionally, method 300 further includes: the terminal device receiving indication information #4 (also referred to as second indication information); correspondingly, the network device sending indication information #4. Indication information #4 is used to indicate M random access resources (i.e., the first set of random access resources) and N random access resources (i.e., the second set of random access resources).

[0213] As one possible implementation, instruction information #4 can directly indicate the first set of random access resources and the second set of random access resources to the terminal device, or it can directly indicate one of the first set of random access resources and the second set of random access resources to the terminal device, while the other set of resources can be determined or derived based on the directly indicated set of resources, or the other set of resources can be determined by the network device and the terminal device through a pre-agreed method.

[0214] Furthermore, by way of example, the indication information, including indication information #4, proposed in this application embodiment can indicate random access resources. The indication method can be to directly indicate the time-domain and / or frequency-domain distribution location of the random access resources, or it can indicate the information needed to derive the time-domain and / or frequency-domain distribution location of the random access resources. For example, the period and start time of the random access resources in the time domain.

[0215] For example, indication message #4 can be sent via broadcast. More specifically, indication message #4 can be sent via periodic broadcast or non-periodic broadcast (such as broadcast triggered on demand).

[0216] It should be noted that any two of the instruction information #1, instruction information #2, instruction information #3 and instruction information #4 can be carried in one signaling message or in different signaling messages.

[0217] As one possible implementation, one SSB of the first type corresponds to x random access resources out of L random access resources, and one SSB of the second type corresponds to y random access resources out of L random access resources, where y is k times x, k is greater than 1, and L is an integer greater than 1.

[0218] Referring to Figure 7, as an example, Figure 7 is a schematic diagram illustrating the correspondence between a first type of SSB, a second type of SSB, and random access resources provided in an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 7, there are four SSBs, where SSB0 belongs to the first type of SSB, and SSB1, SSB2, and SSB3 all belong to the second type of SSB. There are 14 random access resources, with SSB0 corresponding to 2 of them, and SSB1, SSB2, and SSB3 each corresponding to 4 of them. The ratio of the number of random access resources corresponding to SSB0, SSB1, SSB2, and SSB3 is 1:2:2:2, that is, k is 2.

[0219] Optionally, method 300 further includes: the terminal device receiving indication information #5 (also referred to as third indication information); correspondingly, the network device sending indication information #5. Indication information #5 is used to indicate the value of k.

[0220] For example, multiple SSBs in the same cell take turns corresponding to random access resources. One SSB of the first type corresponds to x1 random access resources each time, and one SSB of the second type corresponds to y1 random access resources each time, where y1 is k times x1, and k is greater than 1. As an example, as shown in Figure 7, SSB0 corresponds to 1 random access resource each time, while SSB1, SSB2, and SSB3 correspond to 2 random access resources each time. Optionally, x1 and y1 can be indicated by the network device to the terminal device, or they can be agreed upon in advance by the network device and the terminal device.

[0221] Optionally, instruction #5 may indicate the value of k indirectly. As an example, instruction #5 indicates at least one of the values ​​of x1 and y1, and the value of k can be derived from the values ​​of x1 and y1.

[0222] For example, instruction #5 indicates the values ​​of x1 and y1; as another example, instruction #5 indicates the values ​​of x1 and k, then the value of y1 can be derived from the values ​​of x1 and k; as another example, instruction #5 indicates the value of x1, and the value of k is agreed upon in advance by the network device and the terminal device, then the value of y1 can be derived from the values ​​of x1 and k; as another example, instruction #5 indicates the value of k, and the value of x1 is agreed upon in advance by the network device and the terminal device, then the value of y1 can be derived from the values ​​of x1 and k.

[0223] For example, indication message #5 can be sent via broadcast. More specifically, indication message #5 can be sent via periodic broadcast or non-periodic broadcast (such as broadcast triggered on demand).

[0224] It should be noted that any two of the instruction information #1, instruction information #2, instruction information #3 and instruction information #5 can be carried in one signaling message or in different signaling messages.

[0225] Optionally, the L random access resources are periodically distributed in terms of location, and the L random access resources satisfy at least one of the following conditions in terms of location:

[0226] 1. In the first type of SSB, the random access resources corresponding to different SSBs are distributed alternately in location;

[0227] For example, there are two types of SSBs: SSB0 and SSB1. SSB0 corresponds to random access resources r1 and r2 among L random access resources; SSB1 corresponds to random access resources r3 and r4 among L random access resources. The distribution order of the above random access resources in terms of location is r1, r3, r2, r4.

[0228] 2. In the second type of SSB, the random access resources corresponding to different SSBs are distributed alternately in location;

[0229] For example, there are two types of SSBs: SSB2 and SSB3. SSB2 corresponds to random access resources r5, r6, r7 and r8 out of L random access resources; SSB3 corresponds to random access resources r9, r10, r11 and r12 out of L random access resources. The distribution order of the above random access resources in terms of location is r5, r9, r6, r10, r7, r11, r8, r12.

[0230] 3. The random access resources corresponding to SSBs in the first type of SSB and the random access resources corresponding to SSBs in the second type of SSB are distributed alternately in location;

[0231] For example, there exist first-class SSBs: SSB0 and SSB1, and second-class SSBs: SSB2 and SSB3. SSB0 and SSB1 correspond to random access resources r1, r2, r3, and r4 out of L random access resources; SSB2 and SSB3 correspond to random access resources r5, r6, r7, r8, r9, r10, r11, and r12 out of L random access resources. Then, the distribution order of the above random access resources in terms of location is r1, r5, r6, r2, r7, r8, r3, r9, r10, r4, r11, r12.

[0232] 4. The random access resources corresponding to different SSBs among the W SSBs are distributed alternately in location. The W SSBs are first-type SSBs and second-type SSBs, and W is an integer greater than 1.

[0233] For example, given SSB0, SSB1, SSB2, and SSB3, where SSB0 corresponds to random access resources r1 and r2 out of L random access resources; SSB1 corresponds to random access resources r3 and r4 out of L random access resources; SSB2 corresponds to random access resources r5, r6, r7, and r8 out of L random access resources; and SSB3 corresponds to random access resources r9, r10, r11, and r12 out of L random access resources, the positional distribution order of these random access resources is r1, r3, r5, r6, r9, r10, r2, r3, r7, r8, r11, r12.

[0234] Alternating distribution refers to a situation where, among multiple random access resources corresponding to the same SSB, at least two random access resources exist alongside another random access resource corresponding to the same SSB. For example, alternating distribution can be a distribution of random access resources corresponding to different SSBs in turn according to the SSB index.

[0235] For example, a periodic distribution in position can be a periodic distribution in the time domain, a periodic distribution in the frequency domain, or a periodic distribution in both the time and frequency domains. Furthermore, an alternating distribution in position can be an alternating distribution in the time domain, an alternating distribution in the frequency domain, or an alternating distribution in both the time and frequency domains.

[0236] Optionally, method 300 further includes: the terminal device receiving indication information #6 (also referred to as fourth indication information); correspondingly, the network device sending indication information #6. Indication information #6 indicates the random access resource corresponding to the first type SSB among the L random access resources and / or the random access resource corresponding to the second type SSB among the L random access resources.

[0237] Referring to Figure 8, as an example, Figure 8 is a schematic diagram illustrating the correspondence between a first type of SSB, a second type of SSB, and random access resources according to an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 8, among the L random access resources, the dark-colored random access resources are indicated by the network device to the first type of SSB, therefore, the dark-colored random access resources correspond to SSB0, which belongs to the first type of SSB. The remaining random access resources among the L random access resources are evenly assigned to SSB1, SSB2, and SSB3, which belong to the second type of SSB.

[0238] It should be noted that Figure 8 is merely an example for illustrative purposes. Instruction information #6 can also indicate the random access resources corresponding to the second type of SSB, in which case the specified random access resources are evenly allocated to the second type of SSB, while the remaining random access resources are evenly allocated to the first type of SSB; alternatively, instruction information #6 can also indicate both the random access resources corresponding to the first type of SSB and the random access resources corresponding to the second type of SSB.

[0239] For example, indication information #6 can be sent via broadcast. More exemplaryly, indication information #6 can be sent via periodic broadcast or non-periodic broadcast (such as broadcast triggered on demand).

[0240] It should be noted that any two of the instruction information #1, instruction information #2, instruction information #3 and instruction information #6 can be carried in one signaling message or in different signaling messages.

[0241] Optionally, method 300 further includes: the terminal device receiving indication information #7 (also referred to as the fifth indication information); correspondingly, the network device sending indication information #7. Indication information #7 indicates the random access resources corresponding to a portion of the SSBs in the second type of SSB.

[0242] For example, indication information #7 may include target indication and resource indication. The target indication is used to indicate H SSBs, where H is an integer greater than 1, and the random access resources of these SSBs are indicated by indication information #7. The resource indication is used to indicate the random resources corresponding to the H SSBs. For example, when different SSBs are mapped to random access resources in turn according to their indices, the resource indication in indication information #7 may indicate that the number of random resources corresponding to the H SSBs each time is z1; or, the resource indication in indication information #7 may indicate the relationship between the number of random resources corresponding to the H SSBs each time and the number of random resources corresponding to the first type of SSBs each time; or, the resource indication in indication information #7 may indicate the relationship between the number of random resources corresponding to the H SSBs each time and the number of random resources corresponding to the remaining second type of SSBs each time, etc.

[0243] Based on the above scheme, the random access resources allocated to a portion of the second-type SSBs are determined through direct instruction. This allows for dynamic adjustment of the random access resource allocation method among each synchronization signal block as needed, thereby better meeting uneven random access requirements and improving communication performance. For example, where there are significant differences in random access requirements among multiple hotspot areas, with super-hotspot areas and sub-hotspot areas existing, this scheme can also be used to flexibly allocate resources to meet uneven demands.

[0244] For example, when the configuration of SSBs in a cell changes, the network device retransmits at least one of indication information #1, indication information #2, indication information #3, indication information #4, indication information #5, indication information #6, and indication information #7. For instance, when the cell coverage area is adjusted (e.g., expanded, shrunken, or moved), all or part of the number, type, and coverage method of the SSB beams may also need to be adjusted accordingly. In this case, the correspondence between SSBs and random access resources may need to be redefined. Accordingly, the network device retransmits at least one of indication information #1, indication information #2, indication information #3, indication information #4, indication information #5, indication information #6, and indication information #7 to the terminal device, so that the terminal device can determine the available random access resources based on the updated correspondence between SSBs and random access resources.

[0245] The method provided by the embodiments of this application has been described in detail above with reference to Figures 3 to 8. The apparatus provided by the embodiments of this application will be described in detail below with reference to Figures 9 to 11. It should be understood that the description of the apparatus embodiments corresponds to the description of the method embodiments. Therefore, any content not described in detail can be referred to the method embodiments above, and for the sake of brevity, will not be repeated here.

[0246] Referring to Figure 9, which is a schematic diagram of a communication device 900 provided in an embodiment of this application, the communication device 900 includes a transceiver unit 910 and a processing unit 920. The transceiver unit 910 can be used to implement corresponding communication functions. The transceiver unit 910 can also be referred to as a communication interface or a communication unit. The processing unit 920 can be used to perform processing, such as determining the random access resource corresponding to SSB#1.

[0247] Optionally, the device 900 may further include a storage unit, which can be used to store instructions and / or data, and the processing unit 920 can read the instructions and / or data in the storage unit to enable the device to implement the aforementioned method embodiments.

[0248] In a first possible design, the device 900 can be the terminal device in the foregoing embodiments, which can implement the steps or processes corresponding to those executed by the terminal device in the above method embodiments. Specifically, the transceiver unit 910 can be used to perform transceiver-related operations (such as sending and / or receiving data or messages) of the terminal device in the above method embodiments, and the processing unit 920 can be used to perform processing-related operations of the terminal device in the above method embodiments, or operations other than transceiver (such as operations other than sending and / or receiving data or messages).

[0249] One possible implementation is that the transceiver unit 910 is used to receive a first synchronization signal block; the transceiver unit 910 is also used to perform random access based on the random access resources corresponding to the first synchronization signal block, wherein the first synchronization signal block belongs to a first type of synchronization signal block or a second type of synchronization signal block, and the correspondence between the first type of synchronization signal block and the random access resources is different from the correspondence between the second type of synchronization signal block and the random access resources; and the processing unit 920 is used to determine the random access resources corresponding to the first synchronization signal block according to the correspondence between the first type of synchronization signal block and the random access resources or the correspondence between the second type of synchronization signal block and the random access resources.

[0250] Optionally, the transceiver unit 910 is further configured to receive first indication information, which indicates that the first synchronization signal block belongs to the first type of synchronization signal block or the second type of synchronization signal block.

[0251] Optionally, the transceiver unit 910 is further configured to receive second indication information, which indicates M random access resources and / or N random access resources. The first type of synchronization signal block corresponds to the M random access resources, and the second type of synchronization signal block corresponds to the M random access resources and the N random access resources. The N random access resources are different from the M random access resources, and M and N are integers greater than or equal to 1.

[0252] Optionally, the transceiver unit 910 is further configured to receive third indication information, which indicates the value of k. Here, one synchronization signal block in the first type of synchronization signal block corresponds to x random access resources out of L random access resources, and one synchronization signal block in the second type of synchronization signal block corresponds to y random access resources out of the L random access resources, where y is k times x, k is greater than 1, and L is an integer greater than 1.

[0253] Optionally, the transceiver unit 910 is further configured to receive fourth indication information, which indicates the random access resource corresponding to the first type of synchronization signal block in the L random access resources and / or the random access resource corresponding to the second type of synchronization signal block in the L random access resources.

[0254] Optionally, the transceiver unit 910 is also configured to receive fifth indication information, which indicates the random access resources corresponding to a portion of the synchronization signal blocks in the second type of synchronization signal block.

[0255] Optionally, the transceiver unit 910 is further configured to receive sixth indication information, which indicates the correspondence between the first type of synchronization signal block and the random access resource and / or the correspondence between the second type of synchronization signal block and the random access resource.

[0256] In a second possible design, the device 900 can be a network device as described in the foregoing embodiments. This device 900 can implement the steps or processes performed by the network device corresponding to those described in the method embodiments above. Specifically, the transceiver unit 910 can be used to perform transceiver-related operations (such as sending and / or receiving data or messages) of the network device described in the method embodiments above, and the processing unit 920 can be used to perform processing-related operations of the network device described in the method embodiments above, or operations other than transceiver operations (such as operations other than sending and / or receiving data or messages).

[0257] One possible implementation is a transceiver unit 910, which is used to transmit a first synchronization signal block, which belongs to the first type of synchronization signal block or the second type of synchronization signal block, and the correspondence between the first type of synchronization signal block and the random access resource is different from the correspondence between the second type of synchronization signal block and the random access resource; and a processing unit 920, which is used to configure the first type of synchronization signal block and / or the second type of synchronization signal block.

[0258] Optionally, the processing unit 920 is further configured to configure the correspondence between the first type of synchronization signal block and the random access resource and / or the correspondence between the second type of synchronization signal block and the random access resource.

[0259] Optionally, the transceiver unit 910 is also configured to send first indication information, which indicates that the first synchronization signal block belongs to the first type of synchronization signal block or the second type of synchronization signal block.

[0260] Optionally, the transceiver unit 910 is further configured to transmit second indication information, which indicates M random access resources and / or N random access resources. The first type of synchronization signal block corresponds to the M random access resources, and the second type of synchronization signal block corresponds to both the M random access resources and the N random access resources. The N random access resources are different from the M random access resources, and M and N are integers greater than or equal to 1.

[0261] Optionally, the transceiver unit 910 is further configured to send third indication information, which indicates the value of k. Here, one synchronization signal block in the first type of synchronization signal block corresponds to x random access resources out of L random access resources, and one synchronization signal block in the second type of synchronization signal block corresponds to y random access resources out of the L random access resources, where y is k times x, k is greater than 1, and L is an integer greater than 1.

[0262] Optionally, the transceiver unit 910 is further configured to transmit fourth indication information, which indicates the random access resource corresponding to the first type of synchronization signal block in the L random access resources and / or the random access resource corresponding to the second type of synchronization signal block in the L random access resources.

[0263] Optionally, the transceiver unit 910 is also used to send fifth indication information, which indicates the random access resources corresponding to a portion of the synchronization signal blocks in the second type of synchronization signal block.

[0264] Optionally, the transceiver unit 910 is further configured to transmit a sixth indication information, which indicates the correspondence between the first type of synchronization signal block and the random access resource and / or the correspondence between the second type of synchronization signal block and the random access resource.

[0265] Referring to Figure 10, as an example, Figure 10 is a schematic diagram of another communication device 1000 provided in an embodiment of this application. The device 1000 includes a processor 1010, which is coupled to a memory 1020. The memory 1020 is used to store computer programs or instructions and / or data. The processor 1010 is used to execute the computer programs or instructions stored in the memory 1020, or to read the data stored in the memory 1020, in order to execute the methods in the above method embodiments.

[0266] Optionally, there may be one or more processors 1010.

[0267] Optionally, the memory 1020 may be one or more.

[0268] Alternatively, the memory 1020 can be integrated with the processor 1010, or it can be set separately.

[0269] Optionally, as shown in FIG10, the device 1000 further includes a transceiver 1030 for receiving and / or transmitting signals. For example, the processor 1010 is used to control the transceiver 1030 to receive and / or transmit signals.

[0270] As an example, processor 1010 may have the functions of processing unit 920 shown in FIG9, memory 1020 may have the functions of storage unit, and transceiver 1030 may have the functions of transceiver unit 910 shown in FIG9.

[0271] As one option, the device 1000 is used to implement the operations performed by a communication device (such as a terminal device or a network device) in the various method embodiments described above.

[0272] For example, processor 1010 is used to execute computer programs or instructions stored in memory 1020 to implement the relevant operations of the communication device in the various method embodiments described above.

[0273] It should be understood that the processor mentioned in the embodiments of this application can be a central processing unit (CPU), or other general-purpose processors, digital signal processors (DSPs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), or other programmable logic devices, discrete gate or transistor logic devices, discrete hardware components, etc. A general-purpose processor can be a microprocessor or any conventional processor.

[0274] It should also be understood that the memory mentioned in the embodiments of this application can be volatile memory and / or non-volatile memory. Non-volatile memory can be read-only memory (ROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), or flash memory. Volatile memory can be random access memory (RAM). For example, RAM can be used as an external cache. By way of example and not limitation, RAM includes the following forms: static random access memory (SRAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), synchronous dynamic random access memory (SDRAM), double data rate synchronous dynamic random access memory (DDR SDRAM), enhanced synchronous dynamic random access memory (ESDRAM), synchronous linked dynamic random access memory (SLDRAM), and direct rambus RAM (DR RAM).

[0275] It should be noted that when the processor is a general-purpose processor, DSP, ASIC, FPGA, or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic device, or discrete hardware component, the memory (storage module) can be integrated into the processor.

[0276] It should also be noted that the memory described herein is intended to include, but is not limited to, these and any other suitable types of memory.

[0277] Referring to Figure 11, as an example, Figure 11 is a schematic diagram of a chip system 1100 provided in an embodiment of this application. The chip system 1100 (or may also be referred to as a processing system) includes logic circuitry 1110 and an input / output interface 1120.

[0278] The logic circuit 1110 can be a processing circuit in the chip system 1100. The logic circuit 1110 can be coupled to a memory unit, calling instructions from the memory unit, enabling the chip system 1100 to implement the methods and functions of the embodiments of this application. The input / output interface 1120 can be an input / output circuit in the chip system 1100, outputting processed information from the chip system 1100, or inputting data or signaling information to be processed into the chip system 1100 for processing.

[0279] As one approach, the chip system 1100 is used to implement operations performed by communication devices (such as terminal devices or network devices) in the various method embodiments described above.

[0280] For example, logic circuit 1110 is used to implement processing-related operations performed by a communication device (such as a terminal device or a network device) in the above method embodiments; input / output interface 1120 is used to implement sending and / or receiving-related operations performed by a communication device (such as a terminal device or a network device) in the above method embodiments.

[0281] This application also provides a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program or instructions for implementing the methods executed by a communication device (such as a terminal device or a network device) in the above-described method embodiments. For example, when the computer program or instructions are run on the communication device, the communication device (such as a terminal device or a network device) performs the above-described methods (such as method 300).

[0282] This application also provides a computer program product comprising instructions that, when executed by a computer, implement the methods described above as performed by a communication device (such as a terminal device or a network device). For example, when the computer program or instructions are run on the communication device, the communication device (such as a terminal device or a network device) performs the methods described above (such as method 300).

[0283] The explanations and beneficial effects of the relevant contents in any of the devices provided above can be found in the corresponding method embodiments provided above, and will not be repeated here.

[0284] In the several embodiments provided in this application, it should be understood that the disclosed apparatus and methods can be implemented in other ways. For example, the apparatus embodiments described above are merely illustrative; for instance, the division of units is only a logical functional division, and in actual implementation, there may be other division methods. For example, multiple units or components may be combined or integrated into another system, or some features may be ignored or not executed. Furthermore, the mutual coupling or direct coupling or communication connection shown or discussed may be through some interfaces, and the indirect coupling or communication connection of apparatus or units may be electrical, mechanical, or other forms.

[0285] In the above embodiments, implementation can be achieved entirely or partially through software, hardware, firmware, or any combination thereof. When implemented using software, it can be implemented entirely or partially in the form of 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 the embodiments of this application are generated. The computer can be a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, a computer network, or other programmable device. For example, the computer can be a personal computer, a server, or a network device, etc. 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 (DSL)) or wireless (e.g., infrared, wireless, microwave, etc.) means. The computer-readable storage medium can be any available medium that a computer can access or a data storage device such as a server or data center that integrates one or more available media. The available media can be magnetic media (e.g., floppy disks, hard disks, magnetic tapes), optical media (e.g., DVDs), or semiconductor media (e.g., solid-state disks, SSDs). For example, the aforementioned available media include, but are not limited to, USB flash drives, portable hard drives, read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic disks, or optical disks, and other media capable of storing program code.

[0286] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A communication method, characterized in that, Applied to satellite communications, the method includes: Receive the first synchronization signal block; Random access is performed based on the random access resources corresponding to the first synchronization signal block. The first synchronization signal block belongs to either the first type of synchronization signal block or the second type of synchronization signal block. The correspondence between the first type of synchronization signal block and the random access resources is different from the correspondence between the second type of synchronization signal block and the random access resources.

2. The method as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The method further includes: Receive first indication information, which indicates that the first synchronization signal block belongs to the first type of synchronization signal block or the second type of synchronization signal block.

3. The method as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The first type of synchronization signal block corresponds to M random access resources, and the second type of synchronization signal block corresponds to the M random access resources and N random access resources. The N random access resources are different from the M random access resources, and M and N are integers greater than or equal to 1.

4. The method as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The M random access resources are periodically distributed in the time domain. The N random access resources are aperiodicly distributed in the time domain; or... The N random access resources are periodically distributed in the time domain, and the M random access resources and the N random access resources satisfy at least one of the following: different time periods, different start times, and different frequency domain distributions.

5. The method as described in claim 3 or 4, characterized in that, The method further includes: Receive second indication information, which indicates the M random access resources and / or the N random access resources.

6. The method as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, One synchronization signal block of the first type corresponds to x random access resources out of L random access resources, and one synchronization signal block of the second type corresponds to y random access resources out of the L random access resources, where y is k times x, k is greater than 1, and L is an integer greater than 1.

7. The method as described in claim 6, characterized in that, The L random access resources are periodically distributed in location, and the L random access resources satisfy at least one of the following conditions in location: In the first type of synchronization signal block, the random access resources corresponding to different synchronization signal blocks are distributed alternately in location; In the second type of synchronization signal block, the random access resources corresponding to different synchronization signal blocks are distributed alternately in location; The random access resources corresponding to the synchronization signal blocks in the first type of synchronization signal blocks and the random access resources corresponding to the synchronization signal blocks in the second type of synchronization signal blocks are distributed alternately in location; The random access resources corresponding to different synchronization signal blocks in the W synchronization signal blocks are distributed alternately in location. The W synchronization signal blocks are the first type of synchronization signal blocks and the second type of synchronization signal blocks, and W is an integer greater than 1.

8. The method as described in claim 6 or 7, characterized in that, The method further includes: Receive a third indication message, which indicates the value of k.

9. The method according to any one of claims 6 to 8, characterized in that, The method further includes: Receive fourth indication information, which indicates the random access resource corresponding to the first type of synchronization signal block among the L random access resources and / or the random access resource corresponding to the second type of synchronization signal block among the L random access resources.

10. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that, The method further includes: Receive the fifth indication information, which indicates the random access resources corresponding to a portion of the synchronization signal blocks in the second type of synchronization signal blocks.

11. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that, The method further includes: Receive a sixth indication message, which indicates the correspondence between the first type of synchronization signal block and the random access resource and / or the correspondence between the second type of synchronization signal block and the random access resource.

12. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that, The first type of synchronization signal block and the second type of synchronization signal block satisfy at least one of the following: The beam types of the first type of synchronization signal block and the second type of synchronization signal block are different; The coverage area of ​​the first type of synchronization signal block includes the coverage area of ​​the second type of synchronization signal block.

13. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that, The method further includes: Receive the second synchronization signal block; Wherein, the first synchronization signal block belongs to the first type of synchronization signal block, and the second synchronization signal block belongs to the second type of synchronization signal block; or, The first synchronization signal block belongs to the second type of synchronization signal block, and the second synchronization signal block belongs to the first type of synchronization signal block.

14. A communication method, characterized in that, Applied to satellite communications, the method includes: Send a first synchronization signal block, which belongs to either the first type of synchronization signal block or the second type of synchronization signal block. The correspondence between the first type of synchronization signal block and the random access resource is different from the correspondence between the second type of synchronization signal block and the random access resource.

15. The method as described in claim 14, characterized in that, The method further includes: Send a first indication message, which indicates that the first synchronization signal block belongs to the first type of synchronization signal block or the second type of synchronization signal block.

16. The method as described in claim 14 or 15, characterized in that, The first type of synchronization signal block corresponds to M random access resources, and the second type of synchronization signal block corresponds to the M random access resources and N random access resources. The N random access resources are different from the M random access resources, and M and N are integers greater than or equal to 1.

17. The method as described in claim 16, characterized in that, The M random access resources are periodically distributed in the time domain. The N random access resources are aperiodicly distributed in the time domain; or... The N random access resources are periodically distributed in the time domain, and the M random access resources and the N random access resources satisfy at least one of the following: different time periods, different start times, and different frequency domain distributions.

18. The method as described in claim 16 or 17, characterized in that, The method further includes: Send a second indication message, which indicates the M random access resources and / or the N random access resources.

19. The method as described in claim 14 or 15, characterized in that, One synchronization signal block of the first type corresponds to x random access resources out of L random access resources, and one synchronization signal block of the second type corresponds to y random access resources out of the L random access resources, where y is k times x, k is greater than 1, and L is an integer greater than 1.

20. The method as described in claim 19, characterized in that, The L random access resources are periodically distributed in location, and the L random access resources satisfy at least one of the following conditions in location: In the first type of synchronization signal block, the random access resources corresponding to different synchronization signal blocks are distributed alternately in location; In the second type of synchronization signal block, the random access resources corresponding to different synchronization signal blocks are distributed alternately in location; The random access resources corresponding to the synchronization signal blocks in the first type of synchronization signal blocks and the random access resources corresponding to the synchronization signal blocks in the second type of synchronization signal blocks are distributed alternately in location; The random access resources corresponding to different synchronization signal blocks in the W synchronization signal blocks are distributed alternately in location. The W synchronization signal blocks are the first type of synchronization signal blocks and the second type of synchronization signal blocks, and W is an integer greater than 1.

21. The method as described in claim 19 or 20, characterized in that, The method further includes: Send a third indication message, which indicates the value of k.

22. The method according to any one of claims 19 to 21, characterized in that, The method further includes: Send a fourth indication message, which indicates the random access resource corresponding to the first type of synchronization signal block among the L random access resources and / or the random access resource corresponding to the second type of synchronization signal block among the L random access resources.

23. The method according to any one of claims 14 to 22, characterized in that, The method further includes: Send a fifth indication message, which indicates the random access resources corresponding to a portion of the synchronization signal blocks in the second type of synchronization signal blocks.

24. The method according to any one of claims 14 to 23, characterized in that, The method further includes: Send a sixth indication message, which indicates the correspondence between the first type of synchronization signal block and the random access resource and / or the correspondence between the second type of synchronization signal block and the random access resource.

25. The method according to any one of claims 14 to 24, characterized in that, The first type of synchronization signal block and the second type of synchronization signal block satisfy at least one of the following: The beams of the first type of synchronization signal block and the second type of synchronization signal block are different; The coverage area of ​​the first type of synchronization signal block includes the coverage area of ​​the second type of synchronization signal block.

26. The method according to any one of claims 14 to 25, characterized in that, The method further includes: Send the second synchronization signal block; Wherein, the first synchronization signal block belongs to the first type of synchronization signal block, and the second synchronization signal block belongs to the second type of synchronization signal block; or, The first synchronization signal block belongs to the second type of synchronization signal block, and the second synchronization signal block belongs to the first type of synchronization signal block.

27. A communication device, characterized in that, Includes modules or units for performing the method according to any one of claims 1 to 26.

28. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The computer-readable storage medium stores a computer program or instructions that, when executed on a communication device, cause the communication device to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 26.

29. A computer program product, characterized in that, The computer program product includes a computer program or instructions for performing the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 26.

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