Communication method and apparatus

Abstract

A communication method and apparatus. The method comprises: when the time-domain position of a second reference signal overlaps with the time-domain position of a first reference signal, an access network device shifting the time-domain position of the first reference signal, and sending an indication to a terminal device. The terminal device shifts a configured time-domain position of the first reference signal on the basis of the indication, and receives the first reference signal at the shifted time-domain position, thereby solving the problem of the time-domain position of the second reference signal overlapping or colliding with the time-domain position of the first reference signal. Further, in the method of the present application, when the time-domain position of a second reference signal overlaps with the time-domain position of a first reference signal, the time-domain position of the second reference signal is preferentially ensured, while the time-domain position of the first reference signal is shifted, thereby ensuring the sensing performance.

Description

A communication method and apparatus

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202510125225.8, filed on January 26, 2025, entitled "A Communication Method and Apparatus", the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

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

[0004] In the sensing domain, access network devices can act as sensing / detection nodes, transmitting a second reference signal (such as a sensing reference signal). When this second reference signal reaches the target, it is reflected / scattered by the target, forming an echo signal. By analyzing the echo signal, sensing results can be obtained, such as the target's position, velocity, and angle. Furthermore, as a node for terminal devices to access the network, the access network device also undertakes the function of communication with the terminal devices. For example, during downlink communication, the access network device can send a first reference signal (such as a demodulation reference signal) and downlink data to the terminal device. The first reference signal is used for channel estimation during downlink data demodulation. It can be seen that in the aforementioned sensing domain, the access network device simultaneously realizes sensing and communication functions. When a conflict / overlap occurs between the first time-domain position of the first reference signal and the second time-domain position of the second reference signal, one possible solution is to abandon the transmission of either the first or second reference signal at the overlapping time-domain position. This may result in only communication or sensing functions being possible at the overlapping time-domain position. In the above scenario, how to simultaneously realize communication and sensing functions is a research direction. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Firstly, a communication method is provided. The execution subject of this method is a first device, which may be a terminal device, a component within the terminal device (e.g., a communication module, processor, circuit, chip, or chip system), or a logic module or software capable of implementing all or part of the terminal device's functions. For example, the chip in the terminal device may be a modem chip, also known as a baseband chip, or a system-on-chip (SoC) chip containing a modem core, or a system-in-package (SIP) chip, etc. The method includes: receiving first information and second information, wherein the first information is used to configure a first time-domain position of a first reference signal, the first reference signal is used to demodulate downlink data, the first time-domain position overlaps with a second time-domain position of a second reference signal, the second reference signal is used to sense or detect a target, and the second information is used to indicate a first offset; determining a third time-domain position based on the first offset and the first time-domain position; and receiving the first reference signal at the third time-domain position.

[0006] Through the above design, when the time-domain positions of the second reference signal and the first reference signal overlap, the access network device can instruct the terminal device to shift the time-domain position of the first reference signal, such as by sending second information indicating a first time offset to the terminal device. The terminal device, according to the instruction, shifts the time-domain position of the first reference signal based on its configuration, and receives the first reference signal at the shifted time-domain position, thereby resolving the problem of overlapping or colliding time-domain positions of the second and first reference signals. Furthermore, in the method of this application, when the time-domain positions of the second and first reference signals overlap, prioritizing the preservation of the second reference signal's time-domain position and shifting the time-domain position of the first reference signal ensures sensing performance.

[0007] In conjunction with the first aspect, in one possible implementation, determining the third time-domain position based on the first offset and the first time-domain position includes: receiving first downlink control information (DCI), wherein the first DCI schedules the first device to receive first downlink data in a first time slot; determining the first time-domain position in the first time slot based on the first information; and determining the third time-domain position based on the first offset and the first time-domain position.

[0008] In conjunction with the first aspect, in one possible implementation, where the number of symbols occupied by the first reference signal is predefined or configured for the first device, the method further includes: receiving third information, the third information being used to configure the number of symbols occupied by the first reference signal.

[0009] In conjunction with the first aspect, one possible implementation further includes: sending fourth information, the fourth information being used to indicate whether the first device supports or does not support: shifting the time domain position of the first reference signal when the time domain positions of the second reference signal and the first reference signal overlap.

[0010] Through the above design, the terminal device reports whether it supports offsetting the first reference signal; the access network device can determine the configuration of the second reference signal based on the terminal device's report. If the terminal device supports offsetting the first reference signal, then when their time domain positions overlap / conflict, the access network device can send the second reference signal according to the original configuration, shifting the first reference signal. Alternatively, if the terminal device does not support offsetting the first reference signal, then when their time domain positions overlap / conflict, the access network device can avoid configuring the second reference signal at the first time domain position of the first reference signal. For example, for a type A first reference signal, the second reference signal is not configured in the third or fourth symbol of a time slot; the second reference signal can be flexibly configured according to the different capabilities reported by the terminal device.

[0011] In conjunction with the first aspect, one possible implementation also includes: receiving the second reference signal at the second time domain location.

[0012] Corresponding to the first aspect, the second aspect provides a communication method, the beneficial effects of which are described in the first aspect. The method is executed by a second device, which can be an access network device, a component within the access network device (e.g., a communication module, processor, circuit, chip, or chip system), or a logical node (e.g., CU, DU, or RU), logical module, or software capable of implementing all or part of the access network device's functions. The method includes: transmitting first information and second information, wherein the first information is used to configure a first time-domain position of a first reference signal, the first reference signal is used to demodulate downlink data, the first time-domain position overlaps with a second time-domain position of a second reference signal, the second reference signal is used to sense or detect a target, and the second information is used to indicate a first offset; determining a third time-domain position based on the first and second time-domain positions; and transmitting the first reference signal at the third time-domain position.

[0013] In conjunction with the second aspect, in one possible implementation, determining the third time domain position based on the first time domain position and the second time domain position includes: sending first downlink control information (DCI), the first DCI scheduling a first device to receive first downlink data in a first time slot; determining the first time domain position based on the first information in the first time slot; and determining the third time domain position based on the first time domain position and the second time domain position.

[0014] In conjunction with the second aspect, in one possible implementation, where the number of symbols occupied by the first reference signal is predefined or configured for the first device, the method further includes: receiving third information, the third information being used to configure the number of symbols occupied by the first reference signal.

[0015] In conjunction with the second aspect, one possible implementation further includes: receiving fourth information, the fourth information being used to indicate whether the first device supports or does not support: shifting the time domain position of the first reference signal when the time domain positions of the second reference signal and the first reference signal overlap.

[0016] In conjunction with the second aspect, one possible implementation also includes: transmitting the second reference signal at the second time domain location.

[0017] In combination with the first and second aspects, in one possible implementation, the second reference signal is periodic, and the time-domain position of the second reference signal in each period satisfies the following: taking the initial time-domain position as a reference point, the second reference signal is extended according to the period to determine the time-domain position of the second reference signal in each period, wherein the initial time-domain position is the time-domain position occupied by the second reference signal in the first period.

[0018] In combination with the first and second aspects, in one possible implementation, the period of the second reference signal is 1.25 ms, and each period contains one or more of the second reference signals.

[0019] In combination with the first and second aspects, in one possible implementation, when a period includes a second reference signal, the starting time-domain position occupies the third or fourth symbol of a time slot.

[0020] In one possible implementation, combining the first and second aspects, the second time-domain position is the starting time-domain position.

[0021] In one possible implementation, combining the first and second aspects, the first information is used to configure the first time-domain position of the first reference signal, comprising: the first information is used to configure the index of the symbol occupied by the starting time-domain position of the first reference signal in a time slot.

[0022] In one possible implementation, combining the first and second aspects, the first information configures the starting time-domain position of the first reference signal to occupy the third or fourth symbol of a time slot.

[0023] In one possible implementation, combining the first and second aspects, the first information is used to configure the first time-domain position of the first reference signal, comprising: the first information is used to configure the first reference signal to occupy the first N time-domain resources in the time-domain resources corresponding to the downlink data it demodulates, where N is an integer greater than zero.

[0024] Thirdly, an apparatus is provided capable of implementing the method described in the first aspect. For example, the apparatus includes modules, units, or components that perform the method described in the first aspect. The modules, units, or components can be implemented in hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software.

[0025] In one design, the device includes a unit that performs the method described in the first aspect.

[0026] In one design, the device includes a processor for implementing the method of the first aspect described above. Optionally, the device further includes a memory, with the processor coupled to the memory, the processor executing a computer program or instructions stored in the memory, such that the device implements the method of the first aspect described above.

[0027] In one design, the device includes a processor and an interface circuit, the interface circuit being used to receive signals from other devices outside the device and transmit them to the processor or to send signals from the processor to other devices outside the device, the processor being used to implement the method of the first aspect described above through logic circuits or executing code instructions.

[0028] In one design, the device may be the first device, or a module, unit, or component (e.g., a chip, chip system, circuit, or processor, etc.) that corresponds one-to-one with the first device to perform the methods / operations / steps / actions described in the first aspect, or a device that can be used in conjunction with the first device.

[0029] Fourthly, an apparatus is provided capable of implementing the method of the second aspect described above. For example, the apparatus includes modules, units, or components that perform the method described in the second aspect. The modules, units, or components may be implemented in hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software.

[0030] In one design, the device includes a unit that performs the method described in the second aspect.

[0031] In one design, the device includes a processor for implementing the method of the second aspect described above. Optionally, the device further includes a memory, with the processor coupled to the memory, the processor executing computer programs or instructions stored in the memory, such that the device implements the method of the second aspect described above.

[0032] In one design, the device includes a processor and an interface circuit. The interface circuit is used to receive signals from other devices outside the device and transmit them to the processor, or to send signals from the processor to other devices outside the device. The processor implements the method of the second aspect described above through logic circuits or executing code instructions.

[0033] In one design, the device can be a second device, or a module, unit, or component (e.g., a chip, chip system, circuit, or processor, etc.) that corresponds one-to-one with the method / operation / step / action described in the second aspect in the second device, or a device that can be used in conjunction with the second device.

[0034] Fifthly, a computer-readable storage medium is provided, storing a computer program or instructions that, when executed on a computer, cause the computer to implement the methods of the first or second aspect described above.

[0035] Sixthly, a computer program product is provided, comprising a computer program or instructions that, when executed by a computer, cause the methods described in the first or second aspect to be performed.

[0036] A seventh aspect provides a chip including a processor for implementing the methods of any one of the first to fourth aspects described above. Optionally, the chip further includes a memory, the processor being coupled to the memory, the processor executing computer programs or instructions stored in the memory, causing the chip to implement the methods of the first or second aspect described above.

[0037] Eighthly, a communication system is provided, comprising: a first communication device and a second communication device; wherein the first communication device is used to implement the method of the first aspect; and the second communication device is used to implement the method of the second aspect. Attached Figure Description

[0038] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a communication system applicable to this application;

[0039] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of an ORAN system applicable to this application;

[0040] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of the network element function division and protocol layer structure of an O-RAN device applicable to this application;

[0041] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of a chip used in an access network device applicable to this application;

[0042] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of a current second reference signal pattern used for speed measurement;

[0043] Figures 6a and 6b are schematic diagrams of a second reference signal pattern applicable to this application;

[0044] Figure 7 is a flowchart illustrating a communication method;

[0045] Figures 8a and 8b are schematic diagrams of shifting the first reference signal;

[0046] Figure 9 is a flowchart illustrating another communication method;

[0047] Figures 10 and 11 are schematic diagrams of the device;

[0048] Figure 12 is a schematic diagram of the chip structure. Detailed Implementation

[0049] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this application clearer, the embodiments of this application will be described in further detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The specific operating methods and functional descriptions in the method embodiments can also be applied to the device embodiments or system embodiments.

[0050] I. In the description of this application, unless otherwise specified, the number of nouns refers to "singular nouns or plural nouns," that is, "one or more." "At least one" means one or more, and "more than one" means two or more. "And / or" describes the relationship between related objects, indicating that there can be three relationships. For example, A and / or B can mean: A exists alone, A and B exist simultaneously, or B exists alone, where A and B can be singular or plural. In the textual description of this application, the character " / " generally indicates that the related objects before and after are in an "or" relationship; in the formulas of this application, the character " / " indicates that the related objects before and after are in a "division" relationship. "Including at least one of A, B, or C" or similar expressions can mean: including A; including B; including C; including A and B; including A and C; including B and C; including A, B, and C, where A, B, and C can be singular or plural.

[0051] II. In the description of this application, the various numerical designations are for ease of description and are not intended to limit the scope of the embodiments of this application. The order of the process numbers does not imply the order of execution; the execution order of each process should be determined by its function and internal logic. The ordinal numbers such as "first" and "second" used in the embodiments of this application are used to distinguish multiple objects and do not limit the size, order, timing, priority, or importance of the multiple objects.

[0052] III. In the description of this application, the numbering of steps in the various flowcharts is only for distinguishing different steps and is not intended to limit the order of steps. Furthermore, there is no limitation on the number of steps included in each flowchart; each flowchart may contain more or fewer steps than shown in the diagram, and multiple steps may be combined into one step, or one step may be broken down into multiple steps, etc. Related descriptions in different flowcharts can be referred to cross-referenced. The dashed arrows or boxes in the flowcharts indicate optional steps or optional modules.

[0053] IV. In the description of this application, "transmit" or "receive" indicates the direction of information / signal. "Transmit" or "receive" can also be understood as "input" or "output". "Transmit" or "receive" can occur between devices, for example, between a terminal device and an access network device via a wireless channel. "Transmit" or "receive" can also occur within a device, for example, between components, modules, chips, software modules, or hardware modules within the device via a bus, wiring, or interface. For example, "transmit" can also be understood as the "output" of a chip interface, and "receive" can also be understood as the "input" of a chip interface.

[0054] V. In the description of this application, "sending information (such as first information) to (e.g., a terminal device)" can be understood as the destination of the information being the terminal device. This can include sending information directly or indirectly to (e.g., a terminal device). "Receiving information (such as second or third information) from (e.g., an access network device)" can be understood as the source of the information being the access network device, and can include receiving information directly or indirectly from the access network device. Information may undergo necessary processing between the source and destination, such as format changes, but the destination can understand the valid information from the source. Similar expressions in this application can be understood in a similar way, and will not be repeated here.

[0055] VI. In the description of this application, "for indicating" can include both direct indication (or explicit indication) and indirect indication (or implicit indication). For example, when describing a certain indication information for indicating information I, it can include whether the indication information directly indicates I or indirectly indicates I, but does not necessarily mean that the indication information carries I.

[0056] VII. In the description of this application, "when," "if," and "if" all refer to the fact that the device will take corresponding actions under certain objective circumstances, and are not limited to a specific time, nor do they require the device to perform a judgment action, nor do they imply any other limitations. Unless otherwise specified, "if" and "if" are interchangeable, "when" is interchangeable with "in the case of," and "when" can also be replaced with "when," or "after," etc., and "when" can also be replaced with "if" / "if," etc. The words "exemplary" or "for example" are used to indicate that they are examples, illustrations, or explanations. Any embodiment or design that is described as "exemplary" or "for example" in this application should not be construed as being more preferred or advantageous than other embodiments or design solutions. Specifically, the use of the words "exemplary" or "for example" is intended to present the relevant concepts in a specific manner.

[0057] 8. In the description of this application: the terms “system” and “network” are used interchangeably, and “according to” and “based on” are used interchangeably. The terms “comprising,” “including,” and “having,” and any variations thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, for example, a process, method, system, product, or device that includes a series of steps or units is not necessarily limited to those steps or units that are expressly listed, but may include other steps or units that are not expressly listed or that are inherent to such process, method, product, or device.

[0058] 9. In the description of this application, words such as "exemplarily," "for example," and "e.g." 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 word "example" is intended to present concepts 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.

[0059] 10. The embodiments of this application will be presented in the context of a system including multiple devices, components, modules, etc. It should be understood that the system may include other unmentioned devices, components, modules, etc., or may only include some of the devices, components, or modules mentioned in the embodiments. Optionally, the terms "component" and "part" in this application can be used interchangeably.

[0060] XI. In the description of this application, the terms "storage" or "preservation" may refer to storage in one or more memory devices. These memory devices may be separately configured or integrated into a processor or communication device. Alternatively, some memory devices may be separately configured, while others may be integrated into the processor or communication device. The type of memory can be any form of storage medium, and this is not limited.

[0061] 12. The network architecture and business scenarios described in this application are for the purpose of more clearly illustrating the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, and do not constitute a limitation on the technical solutions provided in the embodiments of this application. As those skilled in the art will know, with the evolution of network architecture and the emergence of new business scenarios, the technical solutions provided in the embodiments of this application are also applicable to similar technical problems.

[0062] Thirteen, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application can be applied to various communication systems, such as integrated sensing and communication (ISAC), universal mobile telecommunications system (UMTS), wireless local area network (WLAN), extended reality (XR) communication system, short-range wireless communication system (such as sidelink, wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi), Bluetooth, etc.), wired network, vehicle to everything (V2X) communication system, device-to-device (D2D) communication system, vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication system, 4th generation (4G) mobile communication system (such as long term evolution (LTE) system), LTE frequency division duplex (FDD) system, LTE time division duplex (TDD) system, worldwide interoperability for microwave access (WiMAX) communication system, and 5th generation (5G) mobile communication system (such as new radio (NR)). No restrictions are imposed on radio (NR) systems, future communication systems (such as 6th generation (6G) mobile communication systems), or other similar communication systems.

[0063] Figure 1 illustrates a schematic diagram of a communication system applicable to this application. The method of this application can be applied to the communication system shown in Figure 1. As shown in Figure 1, the communication system 1000 includes a radio access network (RAN) 100 and a core network (CN) 200. RAN 100 includes at least one RAN node (110a and 110b in Figure 1, collectively referred to as 110) and at least one terminal device (120a-120j in Figure 1, collectively referred to as 120). RAN 100 may also include other RAN nodes, such as wireless relay devices and / or wireless backhaul devices (not shown in Figure 1). Terminal device 120 is wirelessly connected to RAN node 110. RAN node 110 is wirelessly or wired connected to core network 200. The core network device in core network 200 and RAN node 110 in RAN 100 can be different physical devices, or they can be the same physical device integrating core network logical functions and radio access network logical functions. Optionally, the communication system 1000 also includes the Internet 300.

[0064] RAN100 can be a cellular system related to the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP), such as 4G, 5G mobile communication systems, or future-oriented communication systems (such as 6G mobile communication systems). RAN100 can also be an open RAN (O-RAN or ORAN), a cloud radio access network (CRAN), or a wireless fidelity (WiFi) system. RAN100 can also be a communication system that integrates two or more of the above systems.

[0065] RAN node 110, sometimes also referred to as access network equipment, RAN entity, or access node, constitutes part of the communication system and is used to help terminal equipment achieve wireless access. Multiple RAN nodes 110 in communication system 1000 can be of the same type or different types. In some scenarios, the roles of RAN node 110 and terminal equipment 120 are relative. For example, network element 120i in Figure 1 can be a helicopter or drone, which can be configured as a mobile base station. For terminal equipment 120j accessing RAN 100 through network element 120i, network element 120i is a base station; but for base station 110a, network element 120i is a terminal equipment. RAN node 110 and terminal equipment 120 are sometimes both referred to as communication devices. For example, network elements 110a and 110b in Figure 1 can be understood as communication devices with base station functions, and network elements 120a-120j can be understood as communication devices with terminal equipment functions.

[0066] In one possible scenario, a RAN node can be a base station, an evolved NodeB (eNodeB), an access point (AP), a transmission reception point (TRP), a next-generation NodeB (gNB), a base station in a future communication network, or an access node in a WiFi system. A RAN node can be a macro base station (as shown in Figure 1, 110a), a micro base station or indoor station (as shown in Figure 1, 110b), a relay node or donor node, or a radio controller in a CRAN scenario. Optionally, a RAN node can also be a server, wearable device, vehicle, or in-vehicle equipment. For example, the access network equipment in vehicle-to-everything (V2X) technology can be a roadside unit (RSU). All or part of the functions of the RAN node in this application can also be implemented through software functions running on hardware, or through virtualization functions instantiated on a platform (e.g., a cloud platform). The RAN node in this application can also be a logical node, logical module, or software capable of implementing all or part of the RAN node functions.

[0067] In another possible scenario, multiple RAN nodes collaborate to assist terminal devices in achieving wireless access, with different RAN nodes each implementing a portion of the base station's functions. For example, RAN nodes can be central units (CUs), distributed units (DUs), CU-control plane (CPs), CU-user plane (UPs), or radio units (RUs), etc. CUs and DUs can be set up separately or included in the same network element, such as a baseband unit (BBU). RUs can be included in radio frequency equipment or radio frequency units, such as remote radio units (RRUs), active antenna units (AAUs), or remote radio heads (RRHs).

[0068] The CU and DU can be configured according to the protocol layer functions of the wireless network they implement. For example, the CU can be configured to implement the functions of the Packet Data Convergence Protocol (PDCP) layer and above (such as the Radio Resource Control (RRC) layer and / or the Service Data Adaptation Protocol (SDAP) layer); the DU can be configured to implement the functions of protocol layers below the PDCP layer (such as one or more of the Radio Link Control (RLC) layer, Media Access Control (MAC) layer, or Physical (PHY) layer). As another example, the CU can be configured to implement the functions of protocol layers above the PDCP layer (such as the RRC and / or SDAP layers), and the DU can be configured to implement the functions of protocol layers below the PDCP layer (such as one or more of the RLC, MAC, or PHY layers).

[0069] The above CU and DU configurations are merely examples; the functions of the CU and DU can be configured as needed. For instance, the CU or DU can be configured to have more protocol layer functions, or only some protocol layer processing functions. For example, some RLC layer functions and protocol layer functions above the RLC layer can be placed in the CU, while the remaining RLC layer functions and protocol layer functions below the RLC layer can be placed in the DU. Furthermore, the functions of the CU or DU can be divided according to service type or other system requirements, such as by latency. Functions that require low latency can be placed in the DU, while functions that do not require low latency can be placed in the CU.

[0070] DU and RU can cooperate to implement the functions of the PHY layer. A DU can be connected to one or more RUs. The functions of DU and RU can be configured in various ways depending on the design. For example, a DU can be configured to implement baseband functions, and an RU can be configured to implement mid-RF functions. Another example is that a DU can be configured to implement higher-level functions in the PHY layer, and an RU can be configured to implement lower-level functions in the PHY layer, or to implement both lower-level and RF functions. Higher-level functions in the physical layer can include a portion of the physical layer's functions that are closer to the MAC layer, while lower-level functions in the physical layer can include another portion of the physical layer's functions that are closer to the mid-RF side.

[0071] In different systems, CU (or CU-CP and CU-UP), DU, or RU may have different names, but those skilled in the art will understand their meaning. For example, in an ORAN system, CU can also be called O-CU (open CU), DU can also be called O-DU, CU-CP can also be called O-CU-CP, CU-UP can also be called O-CU-UP, and RU can also be called O-RU. For ease of description, this application uses CU, CU-CP, CU-UP, DU, and RU as examples. Any of the units among CU (or CU-CP, CU-UP), DU, and RU in this application can be implemented through software modules, hardware modules, or a combination of software and hardware modules.

[0072] Terminal devices can also be called terminals, user equipment (UE), mobile stations, mobile terminal devices, etc. They can be widely used in various scenarios, such as device-to-device (D2D), vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication, machine-type communication (MTC), the Internet of Things (IoT), virtual reality, augmented reality, industrial control, autonomous driving, telemedicine, smart grids, smart furniture, smart offices, smart wearables, smart transportation, and smart cities. Terminal devices can include mobile phones, tablets, computers with wireless transceiver capabilities, wearable devices, vehicles, drones, helicopters, airplanes, ships, robots, robotic arms, and smart home devices.

[0073] Currently, some examples of terminal devices include: mobile phones, satellite mobile terminal devices, cellular phones, smartphones, tablets, laptops, PDAs, mobile internet devices (MIDs), wearable devices (such as smartwatches, smart bracelets, pedometers, smart glasses, etc.), in-vehicle devices (such as cars, bicycles, electric vehicles, airplanes, ships, trains, high-speed trains, etc.), satellite terminal devices, virtual reality (VR) devices, augmented reality (AR) devices, smart point-of-sale (POS) machines, customer-premises equipment (CPE), wireless terminal devices in industrial control, wireless terminal devices in self-driving cars, wireless terminal devices in remote medical surgery, wireless terminal devices in smart grids, wireless terminal devices in transportation safety, wireless terminal devices in smart cities, and smart homes. Wireless terminal devices in the home (e.g., refrigerators, televisions, air conditioners, electricity meters, etc.), intelligent robots, robotic arms, cellular phones, cordless phones, session initiation protocol (SIP) phones, wireless local loop (WLL) stations, personal digital assistants (PDAs), handheld devices with wireless communication capabilities, computing devices or other processing devices connected to a wireless modem, flying devices (e.g., intelligent robots, hot air balloons, drones, airplanes), terminal devices in 5G networks, or terminal devices in future evolved public land mobile networks (PLMNs), etc. The embodiments of this application do not limit the device form of the terminal devices.

[0074] RAN node 110 and terminal device 120 can be fixed or mobile. RAN node 110 and terminal device 120 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 in the air on aircraft, balloons, and satellites. This application embodiment does not limit the application scenarios of RAN node 110 and terminal device 120. RAN node 110 and terminal device 120 can be deployed in the same or different scenarios. For example, RAN node 110 and terminal device 120 can be deployed simultaneously on land; or RAN node 110 can be deployed on land and terminal device 120 can be deployed on water, etc., and so on.

[0075] RAN node 110 and terminal device 120 can communicate via licensed spectrum, unlicensed spectrum, or both simultaneously. For example, RAN node 110 and terminal device 120 can communicate via 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.

[0076] It is understood that RAN nodes are used to help terminal devices achieve wireless access, and they can also be referred to in other different ways, such as RAN entity, ORAN device, access node, access network device, etc. In the following description of the embodiments of this application, unless otherwise specified, the node or device that helps the terminal device achieve wireless access will be described as "access network device".

[0077] The core network 200 includes at least a sensing function (SF) network element, or contains one network element that can simultaneously perform sensing and positioning functions. For example, this network element can simultaneously perform the functions of an SF network element and a Location Management Function (LMF) network element. This network element can be considered as a network element that combines SF and LMF network elements. It can be understood that an SF network element refers to a device or component deployed in the core network to provide sensing functions for the network; it can also be called a Sensing Management Function (SMF), or other names, without limitation. An LMF network element is a device or component deployed in the core network to provide positioning functions for terminal devices. Taking an SF network element as an example, the process of an SF network element implementing sensing functions is as follows:

[0078] 1. SF network elements receive sensing requests, such as those sent by application function (AF) network elements or operation administration and maintenance (OAM) network elements.

[0079] 2. Based on the sensing request, the SF network element configures the access network equipment to perform sensing services.

[0080] 3. The access network equipment performs detection / sensing based on the configuration, obtains sensing data, and reports the sensing data to the SF network element.

[0081] 4. SF network elements analyze and process the sensing data to obtain sensing results;

[0082] 5. The SF network element reports the sensing results, such as reporting the sensing results to the AF network element or the OAM network element.

[0083] Optionally, the core network may also include other network elements, such as access and mobility management function (AMF) network elements, session management function (SMF) network elements, network exposure function (NEF) network elements, or application function (AF) network elements.

[0084] It is understood that terminal equipment, access network equipment, or core network elements can sometimes be referred to as communication devices. For example, a terminal device can be understood as a communication device with terminal equipment functions, an access network device can be understood as a communication device with access network equipment functions, and a core network element can be understood as a communication device with core network functions. In the method of this application, the functions of the access network equipment can also be performed by modules, units, or components (such as chips) within the access network equipment, or by a control subsystem containing access network equipment functions. This control subsystem containing access network equipment functions can be a control center in the aforementioned application scenarios such as smart grids, industrial control, intelligent transportation, and smart cities. The functions of the terminal equipment can also be performed by modules, units, or components (such as chips or modems) within the terminal equipment, or by a device containing terminal equipment functions.

[0085] Figure 2 illustrates a schematic diagram of an ORAN system applicable to this application. The method described in this application can be applied to the ORAN system shown in Figure 2. The ORAN system may include components other than those shown in Figure 2. As shown in Figure 2, the ORAN system includes: core network equipment, access network equipment, and terminal equipment. The access network equipment communicates with the core network equipment via a backhaul link and with the terminal equipment via an air interface.

[0086] Specifically, access network equipment includes BBU and RU. BBU communicates with core network equipment via backhaul links, and RU communicates with terminal equipment via air interfaces. BBU communicates with at least one RU via fronthaul links. BBU and RU may or may not be co-located. BBU includes at least one CU and at least one DU, which can communicate via at least one midhaul link.

[0087] There is an interface between the DU and RU. Depending on the functions of the DU and RU, and / or the different switching methods, the interface between the DU and RU can be a common public radio interface (CPRI) or an enhanced common public radio interface (eCPRI).

[0088] Figure 3 shows a schematic diagram of the network element function division and protocol layer structure of an O-RAN device applicable to this application. The term "access network device" in the method of this application can be replaced by O-RAN device. The O-RAN device can adopt the network element function division and protocol layer structure shown in Figure 3.

[0089] In this context, O-RAN equipment can be understood as access network equipment using the O-RAN architecture, used to enable wireless access for terminal devices. It is understood that communication between O-RAN equipment and terminal devices follows a specific protocol layer structure. This protocol layer structure can include a control plane protocol layer structure and a user plane protocol layer structure. For example, the control plane protocol layer structure can include the functions of protocol layers such as Radio Resource Control (RRC), Packet Data Convergence Protocol (PDCP), Radio Link Control (RLC), Media Access Control (MAC), and the physical layer. Similarly, the user plane protocol layer structure can include the functions of protocol layers such as PDCP, RLC, MAC, and the physical layer. In one possible implementation, a Service Data Adaptation Protocol (SDAP) layer can be added above the PDCP layer.

[0090] As shown in Figure 3, the O-RAN equipment includes logical nodes such as CU, DU, and RU. The CU can connect to the core network via an interface, for example, the E2 interface. Optionally, the CU can have some core network functions. The CU can control at least one DU, and the CU can connect to the DU via an interface, for example, the F1 interface. Further, the control plane (CP) interface can be called F1-C, and the user plane (UP) interface can be called F1-U. The DU can control at least one RU, and the DU can connect to the RU via an interface, for example, the fronthaul interface.

[0091] 1. CU

[0092] A CU can be a logical node that carries the RRC layer, SDAP layer, PDCP layer, and other control functions. In other words, a CU can implement the functions of the RRC layer, SDAP layer, PDCP layer, and certain control functions.

[0093] Furthermore, the CU can be divided into CU-CP and CU-UP. Referring to Figure 3, CU-CP is a logical node carrying the control plane (control plane part of PDCP, PDCP-C) of the RRC and PDCP layers, used to implement the CU's control plane functions. CU-CP can interact with network elements in the core network used to implement control plane functions. These network elements in the core network can be access and mobility function network elements, such as the access and mobility management function (AMF) in a 5G communication system. Continuing to refer to Figure 3, CU-UP is a logical node carrying the data plane (user plane part of PDCP, PDCP-U) of the SDAP and PDCP layers, used to implement the CU's user plane functions. CU-UP can interact with network elements in the core network used to implement user plane functions, such as the user plane function (UPF) in a 5G communication system.

[0094] 2. DU

[0095] A DU can be a logical node that carries the RLC layer, MAC layer, higher physical layer (Higher PHY) layer, and other functions. For example, the higher physical layer may include some of the processing functions of the PHY layer, such as forward error correction (FEC) encoding and decoding, scrambling, modulation, and demodulation. In other words, a DU can implement the functions of the RLC layer, MAC layer, higher physical layer, and other functions.

[0096] It is understood that the above CU and DU configurations are merely examples, and the functions of the CU and DU can be configured as needed. For instance, the CU or DU can be configured to have more protocol layer functions, or it can be configured to have only some protocol layer processing functions. For example, some functions of the RLC layer and the protocol layer functions above the RLC layer can be placed in the CU, while the remaining functions of the RLC layer and the protocol layer functions below the RLC layer can be placed in the DU. Furthermore, the functions of the CU or DU can be divided according to service type or other system requirements, such as by latency, placing functions that need to meet low latency requirements in the DU and functions that do not need to meet such latency requirements in the CU.

[0097] 3. RU

[0098] An RU can be a logical node that carries both lower physical layer (PHY) and radio frequency (RF) chain processing. For example, the lower physical layer includes some of the processing functions of the physical layer, such as fast Fourier transform (FFT), inverse fast Fourier transform (IFFT), digital beamforming, and filtering. In other words, an RU can implement both physical layer and RF functions.

[0099] In one possible implementation, the RU can be a 3GPP transmission reception point (TRP), a remote radio head (RRH), or other similar entity. The RU communicates with one or more terminal devices via a wireless link.

[0100] The DU and RU can be co-located or non-co-located, without restriction. Referring to Figure 3, the O-RAN control user and synchronization (CUS-Plane) and management plane (M-Plane) can be included between the DU and RU. The O-RAN CUS plane can be simply referred to as the CUS plane, and the O-RAN management plane can be simply referred to as the management plane. Further, the CUS plane can be divided into a control plane (C-Plane) and a user plane (U-Plane). Optionally, the control plane refers to the real-time control plane between the DU and RU. The management plane refers to the non-real-time management operations between the DU and RU.

[0101] Referring to Figure 3, the DU and RU exchange control plane and user plane information via the lower-layer split CUS-Plane (LLS-CUS) interface through the fronthaul link. Furthermore, the LLS-CUS interface may include an LLS-C interface corresponding to the control plane and an LLS-U interface corresponding to the user plane. The DU and RU exchange management plane information through the LLS-M interface of the fronthaul link. Referring to Figure 3, the LLS-M interface can also connect to an external management system.

[0102] Figure 4 shows a schematic diagram of the chip of the access network device applicable to this application. As in the method of this application, the function of the access network device can be implemented by the access network device chip (such as called RAN chip), and the RAN chip can adopt the network architecture shown in Figure 4.

[0103] As shown in Figure 4, the RAN chip includes a CU, a DU, and a RU. The CU can perform layer 2 (L2) and layer 3 (L3) functions, etc.; the DU can perform layer 1 (L1) functions and some L2 functions, etc.; the RU can perform L1 computation and radio frequency (RF) digital functions, etc. The CU communicates with the core network equipment through a backhaul interface, which carries the traffic between the CU and the core network equipment. The CU may include a central processing unit (CPU) based on x86 architecture or advanced instruction set computing (RISC) machine (ARM) architecture, as well as field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), graphics processing units (GPUs), or other accelerators, etc. The CPU can communicate with the FPGA, GPU, or other accelerators through a peripheral component interconnect express (PCIe) interface.

[0104] The CU and DU communicate via a midhaul interface, which carries the traffic between the CU and DU. The DU may include an x86 or ARM architecture CPU, as well as FPGAs, GPUs, or other accelerators, which can communicate with the FPGA, GPU, or other accelerators via a PCIe interface.

[0105] The DU and RU communicate via a fronthaul interface, which carries the traffic between the DU and RU. If the access network equipment uses an integrated DU, the integrated DU can include the functions of both the DU and RU, and the RAN may no longer need to include a separate RU. The RU may include a RAN fronthaul processing unit, a digital processing unit, and an RF processing unit. The RAN fronthaul processing unit is implemented, for example, using an FPGA or an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC). The digital processing unit is also implemented, for example, using an FPGA or an ASIC. The RU can be connected to an antenna to communicate with terminal equipment.

[0106] For ease of description, some communication terms or terminology used in this application are explained. It is understood that these explanations are for understanding the methods of this application and are not intended to limit the scope of this application.

[0107] 1. First reference signal

[0108] The first reference signal is used to demodulate downlink data, as if the downlink data were carried on the physical downlink shared channel (PDSCH). The function of the first reference signal can be replaced by: channel estimation during demodulation. There are no restrictions on the name of the first reference signal. For example, it can be called the demodulation reference signal (DMRS).

[0109] Understandably, before the access network device sends downlink data to the terminal device, the downlink data is carried on the PDSCH. The access network device first sends a first reference signal (DMRS) to the terminal device. The channel characteristics experienced by the DMRS can be considered to be consistent with or close to the channel characteristics experienced by the downlink data carried on the PDSCH. The terminal device can determine the equivalent channel H based on the DMRS; and demodulate the downlink data carried on the PDSCH based on the equivalent channel H.

[0110] There are two types of first reference signals (DMRS): type A and type B. For type A DMRS, the starting time domain position can occupy the 3rd or 4th symbol of a time slot, with the time slot as the reference point. For type B DMRS, the starting time domain position of the PDSCH is the Nth symbol of the PDSCH, where N is a positive integer. Unless otherwise specified, the DMRS referred to in this application can refer to the pre-DMRS.

[0111] 2. Second reference signal

[0112] The second reference signal is used to sense or detect targets. The name of the second reference signal is not limited; it can be called a sensing reference signal, integrated sensing and communication-reference signal (ISAC-RS), sensing signal, detection signal, electromagnetic wave, radar signal, radar sensing signal, radar detection signal, or environmental sensing signal, etc. For example, access network equipment acts as a sensing and measurement node / device. The access network equipment sends out the second reference signal. When this second reference signal reaches the target, it is reflected / scattered by the target, forming an echo signal, which is received by the access network equipment or terminal equipment. By analyzing the information carried by the echo signal, the sensing result can be determined. The sensing result may include information such as the target's position, speed, angle, or trajectory. For example, speed measurement works by analyzing the Doppler information carried in the echo signal to calculate the speed. When the access network equipment sends out the second reference signal (such as an electromagnetic wave), the frequency of the wave reflected / scattered back by the moving object changes (Doppler shift). By detecting this frequency change, the speed of the object can be inferred.

[0113] 3. Time slots and symbols

[0114] The length of a time slot varies depending on the sub-carrier spacing (SCS). For example, a time slot of 15 kHz can be 1 millisecond (ms), while a time slot of 30 kHz can be 0.5 ms. A time slot contains one or more symbols; for instance, a time slot under a normal cyclic prefix (CP) can contain 14 symbols, and a time slot under an extended CP can contain 12 symbols. In this application, an example of a time slot containing 14 symbols is used. Symbols can be referred to as time-domain symbols, such as orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) symbols.

[0115] In this application, the access network device acts as a sensing / detection node, periodically transmitting sensing reference signals to achieve sensing functionality. The sensing reference signals reach the target and, after reflection / scattering by the target, form echo signals. By analyzing the echo signals of at least one cycle, sensing results, such as the target's velocity, position, or angle, can be obtained.

[0116] Taking velocity measurement as an example, the current period of the sensing reference signal is 1.25ms. For instance, when the subcarrier spacing is 30kHz, one time slot occupies 0.5ms. Each time slot contains 14 symbols, so a period of 1.25ms corresponds to 35 symbols (i.e., 2.5 time slots). Referring to Figure 5, the starting time domain position of the sensing reference signal occupies the 5th symbol of the first time slot (slot 0). Each period contains one sensing reference signal. Then, by delaying according to the 1.25ms period, the time domain position of the sensing reference signal in each period can be determined.

[0117] Time slots can be configured according to the pattern "DDDSUDDSUU". For example, they can be grouped into sets of 10 slots, with the configuration for each group of 10 slots being "DDDSUDDSUU". Here, "D" represents downlink, indicating that the corresponding time slot is used for downlink transmission, and all symbols in this time slot are downlink symbols, which can be represented as D symbols. "U" represents uplink, indicating that the corresponding time slot is used for uplink transmission, and all symbols in this time slot are uplink symbols, which can be represented as U symbols. "S" represents a special time slot, indicating that the corresponding time slot is used for both downlink and uplink transmission, and this time slot includes both downlink and uplink symbols. Optionally, a gap (GAP) exists between downlink and uplink symbols.

[0118] For example, referring to Figure 5, the indices of the 10 time slots are 0 to 9 in sequence. According to the configuration of the pattern "DDDSUDDSUU", time slots 0 to 2 are downlink time slots D, time slot 3 is a special time slot S, time slot 4 is an uplink time slot U, time slots 5 and 6 are downlink time slots D, time slot 7 is a special time slot S, and time slots 8 and 9 are uplink time slots U.

[0119] Referring again to Figure 5, the starting time domain position of the sensing reference signal (which can be considered as the sensing reference signal of the first cycle) occupies the 5th symbol of time slot 0. With a periodic delay of 1.25 ms, the sensing reference signal of the second cycle occupies the 12th symbol of time slot 2. Similarly, the sensing reference signal of the third cycle occupies the 5th symbol of time slot 5, and the sensing reference signal of the fourth cycle occupies the 12th symbol of time slot 7. As previously explained, time slot 7 is a special time slot S, where some symbols are configured as uplink U symbols and others as downlink D symbols. For example, the first 11 symbols of special time slot S (symbols 1 to 11) are downlink D symbols, and the last 3 symbols (symbols 12 to 14) are uplink U symbols. In the method of Figure 5, the sensing reference signal of the fourth cycle occupies the 12th symbol of time slot 7. Time slot 7 is a special time slot S, and the 12th symbol is the uplink symbol U. The configuration shown in Figure 5 results in the sensing reference signal occupying the uplink symbol. The sensing reference signal is a downlink signal sent by the access network device. Since the access network device cannot occupy the uplink symbol U to send the sensing reference signal, it affects sensing performance.

[0120] Therefore, it is proposed that the starting time domain position of the sensing reference signal (i.e., the sensing reference signal within the first period) should occupy as early as possible the symbols in the first time slot (e.g., time slot 0), thereby avoiding the sensing reference signal occupying the uplink symbol U in the S time slot. Specifically:

[0121] As shown in Figure 6a, the initial time-domain position of the sensing reference signal occupies the third symbol of time slot 0. It is extended according to a period of 1.25 ms. At this time, the sensing reference signal of the fourth cycle occupies the tenth symbol in time slot 7 (special time slot S).

[0122] Alternatively, as shown in Figure 6b, the initial time-domain position of the sensing reference signal occupies the 4th symbol of time slot 0. It is extended with a period of 1.25 ms. In this case, the sensing reference signal of the fourth cycle occupies the 11th symbol in time slot 7 (special time slot S).

[0123] According to the design of using the first 11 symbols of a special time slot as downlink symbols and the last 3 symbols as uplink symbols, the 10th or 11th symbol of the aforementioned time slot 7 is a downlink symbol, which can be used to transmit sensing reference signals, thereby ensuring sensing performance.

[0124] One interpretation is as follows: Since the first part of the symbols in a special time slot S is downlink symbols and the second part is uplink symbols, the sensing reference signal can be configured within the special time slot S. Therefore, to ensure sensing performance, it is desirable for the sensing reference signal to occupy the first part of the symbols in the special time slot S. The sensing reference signal is extended from its initial time domain position with a period of 1.25ms. Therefore, the fact that the initial time domain position of the sensing reference signal occupies a symbol position near the beginning of a time slot can, to a certain extent, ensure that the sensing reference signal occupies the first part of the uplink symbols in the special time slot S.

[0125] For a Type A DMRS, its starting time-domain position can be configured in the 3rd or 4th symbol of a time slot. In the method shown in Figure 6a or Figure 6b, the sensing reference signal also occupies the 3rd or 4th symbol in the first time slot (time slot 0), which may cause conflict / overlap / collision between the sensing reference signal and the time-domain position of the DMRS.

[0126] In view of the above, this application provides a communication method and apparatus. In this method: when the second time-domain position of a sensing reference signal (hereinafter referred to as the second reference signal) overlaps with the first time-domain position configured for the DMRS (hereinafter referred to as the first reference signal), the access network device re-determines a time-domain position for the DMRS (which may be referred to as the third time-domain position), and indicates the time-domain offset (i.e., the first offset) between the third time-domain position and the first time-domain position to the terminal device. The terminal device determines the third time-domain position of the DMRS according to the above indication and the first time-domain position configured for the DMRS, and receives the DMRS at the determined third time-domain position, thereby solving the problem of overlap or collision between the time-domain positions of the sensing reference signal and the DMRS. Furthermore, in the method of this application, when the time-domain positions of the sensing reference signal and the DMRS overlap, the time-domain position of the sensing reference signal is prioritized, and the time-domain position of the DMRS is shifted to ensure sensing performance.

[0127] It is understood that in the following description of the method, the executing entity can be a first device and a second device. The first device can be a terminal device, a component within the terminal device (e.g., a communication module, processor, circuit, chip, or chip system), or a logic module or software capable of implementing all or part of the terminal device's functions. For example, the first device can be a communication module within the terminal device, or a circuit, chip, or chip system responsible for communication functions within the terminal device, such as a modem chip (also known as a baseband chip), or a system-on-chip (SoC) chip or system-in-package (SIP) chip containing a modem core. The second device can be an access network device, or a component within the access network device (e.g., a communication module, processor, circuit, chip, or chip system), or a logic module / node or software capable of implementing all or part of the access network device's functions (e.g., a CU, DU, or RU). For ease of understanding and description, the following description uses the example of a terminal device as the first device and an access network device as the second device to illustrate the method of this application.

[0128] Figure 7 provides a flowchart of a communication method, which includes:

[0129] Step 710: The access network device sends the first information and the second information to the terminal device.

[0130] Accordingly, the terminal device receives first information and second information from the access network device.

[0131] The execution entity of step 710 can also be a module of the access network device or a terminal of the terminal device. The description of step 710 above can also be replaced by: the module of the access network device sending first information and second information to the terminal device. Correspondingly, the module of the terminal device receives the first information and second information from the access network device. Here, the module of the access network device can be understood as one of CU, DU, or RU, or a chip of the access network, or a radio frequency module or transceiver module of the access network. The module of the terminal device can be understood as a chip, processor, radio frequency module, or transceiver module of the terminal device.

[0132] The first information is used to configure the first time-domain position of the first reference signal. The terminal device can determine the first time-domain position of the first reference signal based on the first information. The type of the first reference signal is not limited.

[0133] As described in this application, DMRS is used as an example. DMRS can be divided into Type A and Type B according to the mapping type. The following mainly uses Type A and Type B as examples of the first reference signal. It can be understood that the first reference signal involved in this application can be a front-loaded reference signal, such as a front-loaded DMRS. The full English name of front-loaded DMRS is Front-loaded DMRS.

[0134] If the type of the first reference signal is Type A, the first information is used to configure the first time-domain position of the first reference signal, including: the index of the symbol occupied by the starting time-domain position of the first reference signal in a time slot. For example, the first information configures the starting time-domain position of the first reference signal to occupy the third or fourth symbol of a time slot. If the first information can be carried in a system message, the system message can be a master information block (MIB) or other system messages without restriction. If the MIB contains a cell, this cell can be used to indicate that the starting time-domain position of the first reference signal of type A occupies the third or fourth symbol of a time slot. If the name of this cell can be the DMRS position of type A (dmrs-TypeA-Position), the value of this cell can be pos2 or pos3. Here, pos2 indicates that the starting time-domain position of the first reference signal of type A occupies the third symbol of a time slot, and pos3 indicates that the starting time-domain position of the first reference signal of type A occupies the fourth symbol of a time slot. For example, if a time slot contains 14 symbols, numbered starting from 0, then the indices of these 14 symbols can be sequentially 0 to 13. Therefore, the index corresponding to the third symbol mentioned above is 2 (corresponding to pos2), and the index corresponding to the fourth symbol is 3 (corresponding to pos3). It can be understood that in addition to the DMRS position information element of type A mentioned above, the MIB may also contain other information elements. For example, in a specific example, as shown below, the MIB contains the following information elements: system frame number, common subcarrier spacing, SSB subcarrier offset, DMRS position of type A, SIB1 for configuring PDCCH, cell barred, intraFreqReselection, and spare information elements, etc.

[0135] Furthermore, the number of symbols occupied by the first reference signal of type A can be one or more, without limitation. The number of symbols occupied by the first reference signal of type A (e.g., 1) can be predefined, such as that predefined by the protocol. Alternatively, it can be configured by the access network device to the terminal device. For example, the access network device sends third information to the terminal device, which is used to configure the number of symbols occupied by the first reference signal. This third information can be carried in an RRC message used to configure the first reference signal, such as an RRC message named Downlink DMRS Configuration. This RRC message contains an information element used to configure the number of symbols occupied by the first reference signal. For example, if the name of this information element is maximum length (maxLength), and its corresponding value is 2, it means that the number of symbols occupied by the first reference signal is at most 2. In the description of this application, the information element can also be replaced by a field.

[0136] For example, the type of the first reference signal is type B. The first information is used to configure the first time-domain position of the first reference signal, including: the first information is used to configure the first reference signal to occupy the first N time-domain resources corresponding to the demodulated downlink data, where N is a positive integer. Specifically, the first information can be used to configure the type of the downlink reference signal as type B. When the type of the first reference signal is type B, the terminal device can determine the time-domain position of the type B first reference signal based on the time-domain resource position of the downlink data or PDSCH corresponding to the first reference signal. For example, the type B first reference signal occupies the first symbol of its demodulated PDSCH or downlink data. Of course, for the type B first reference signal, it can also occupy multiple symbols, in which case the value of N is greater than 1. The number of symbols occupied by the type B first reference signal can be predefined, or configured or indicated to the terminal device by the access network device, such as the access network device sending third information to the terminal device to indicate the number of symbols.

[0137] In one possible implementation, the access network device may send indication information to the terminal device to indicate the type of a first reference signal. This indication information may be carried in an RRC message configuring the first reference signal. The indication information may indicate whether the type of the first reference signal is type A. If the indication information indicates that the type of the first reference signal is type A, the terminal device may determine the starting time domain position of the first reference signal of type A based on the indication of a system message (e.g., the MIB may indicate the symbol index of the starting time domain position of the first reference signal of type A within a time slot). Further, based on the aforementioned starting time domain position and the number of symbols occupied by the first reference signal of type A, the first time domain position of the first reference signal of type A is determined. Alternatively, if the indication information indicates that the type of the first reference signal is type B, the terminal device may determine the first time domain position of the first reference signal of type B based on the time domain position of the PDSCH corresponding to the first reference signal. For example, the first reference signal of type B occupies the first symbol of the PDSCH. Of course, if the first reference signal of type B occupies multiple symbols, the number of symbols occupied by the first reference signal of type B may be predefined or indicated to the terminal device.

[0138] The first time-domain position of the first reference signal overlaps with the second time-domain position of the second reference signal. This overlap can be complete or partial. Optionally, the overlap can refer to symbol overlap, that is, the symbols occupied by the first reference signal and the symbols occupied by the second reference signal overlap. For example, if the first reference signal occupies the third symbol of a time slot, and the second reference signal also occupies the third symbol of the same time slot, then they are considered to overlap. Or, if the first reference signal occupies the fourth symbol of a time slot, and the second reference signal also occupies the fourth symbol of the same time slot, then they are considered to overlap. For information on the first and second reference signals, please refer to sections 1 and 2 of the Communication Terminology or Definitions.

[0139] The second information is used to indicate a first offset, which can be considered as an offset relative to the time-domain position (i.e., the first time-domain position) of the configured first reference signal. The name of the first offset is not limited; it can also be called a shift, DMRS shift, etc. It can be indicated in "symbols," specifically indicating the number of symbols offset. For example, the first offset can specifically indicate the number of symbols offset within a time slot. The value of the first offset can be any integer between 0 and 12 (inclusive), meaning the second information can specifically indicate any integer between 0 and 12. In the description of this application, offset and shift are not specifically distinguished, and the two can be used interchangeably. For example, the second information can be carried in higher-layer signaling used to configure the first reference signal. This higher-layer signaling can be an RRC message, and the name of the RRC message is not limited; for example, the name of the RRC message could be DMRS Downlink Configuration. Furthermore, the higher-layer signaling or RRC message includes a cell indicating the first offset. This cell could be named DMRS-shift, and its value could be any integer from 0 to 12. This cell can be considered a possible implementation of the second information. It is understood that the aforementioned RRC message, DMRS DownlinkConfig, may contain other cells besides the DMRS-shift cell indicating the first offset. For example, in a specific instance, the DMRS downlink configuration (DMRS-DownlinkConfig) includes the following information elements: DMRS type (dmrs-Type), additional DMRS position (dmrs-AdditionalPosition), maximum length (maxLength), scrambling ID0 (scramblingID0), scrambling ID1 (scramblingID1), phase tracking reference signal (phaseTrackingRS), DMRS downlink version 16 (dmrs-Downlink-r16), enhanced DMRS type version 18 (dmrs-TypeEnh-r18), and DMRS shift (dmrs-shift). It should be noted that the DMRS type (dmrs-Type) information element is used to configure the frequency type of the DMRS, such as the frequency domain type of the DMRS being type 2 (type2). This differs from types A and B in this application, which refer to the time domain type of the DMRS. The aforementioned other DMRS location information cells are used to configure the time-domain location of other DMRSs. Unless otherwise specified, the DMRSs involved in this application refer to the preceding DMRS. The preceding DMRS is usually located before the time-domain location of its demodulated PDSCH, unlike other DMRSs.

[0140] The maximum length cell can be used to configure the number of symbols occupied by the DMRS (such as the pre-DMRS), and its value can be 2.

[0141] It is understandable that when the value of the first offset indicated by the second information is 0, the time-domain offset of the first time-domain position is equal to 0; essentially, no offset is made to the first time-domain position. The access network device transmits the first reference signal at the first time-domain position; correspondingly, the terminal device receives the first reference signal at the first time-domain position. When the value of the first offset indicated by the second indication information is greater than 0, it can be considered that the first time-domain position is used as a reference point, and the second time-domain position is determined by offsetting the corresponding number of symbols in the direction of increasing time domain according to the indication of the first offset.

[0142] The first and second information can be carried in the same message or in different messages. For example, the first and second information can be carried simultaneously in higher-level information, such as an RRC message, which can be used to configure the first reference signal to the terminal device. Alternatively, the first information can be carried in a system message, such as a MIB, and the second information can be carried in higher-level signaling, such as an RRC message.

[0143] Step 720a: The access network device determines the third time domain position based on the first time domain position and the second time domain position.

[0144] The entity executing step 720a can also be a module of the access network device. The description of step 720a above can also be replaced by: the module of the access network device determines the third time domain position based on the first time domain position and the second time domain position.

[0145] For example, the access network device can determine the overlapping time domain position based on the first and second time domain positions; the access network device then determines the third time domain position based on the overlapping time domain position. Of course, the aforementioned third time domain position needs to avoid the overlapping time domain position. It can be understood that the third time domain position and the first time domain position can be used to determine the first offset. For example, the first offset is the number of symbols separating the third time domain position from the first time domain position. For instance, if the first time domain position is the 3rd symbol in a time slot, and the third time domain position is the 5th symbol in a time slot, then the first offset is 2 symbols.

[0146] Step 720b: The terminal device determines the third time domain position based on the first time domain position and the first offset.

[0147] The execution entity of step 720b can also be a module in the terminal device. The description of step 720b above can also be replaced by: the module of the terminal device determines the third time domain position based on the first time domain position and the first offset.

[0148] For example, if an access network device sends first downlink control information (DCI) to a terminal device, the terminal device receives the first DCI from the access network device. The first DCI schedules the terminal device to receive first downlink data in a first timeslot. The first downlink data is carried in the first PDSCH. The function of the first DCI can be alternatively described as follows: the first DCI is used to schedule the first PDSCH. It can be understood that the first DCI can indicate the time domain position where the terminal device receives the first PDSCH or the first downlink data, such as receiving the first PDSCH or the first downlink data on a certain symbol in the first timeslot. Furthermore, the first DCI can also indicate the frequency domain location of the first PDSCH or the first downlink data, and can also indicate the parameters (such as modulation and coding scheme, MCS) used by the terminal device to receive the first downlink data or the first PDSCH. Since the first reference signal is located in the same time slot as its demodulated first downlink data or the first PDSCH, if the first DCI indicates that the first PDSCH or the first downlink data is received in the first time slot, the first reference signal is also transmitted in the first time slot. The terminal device can determine the first time domain location in the first time slot according to the configuration of the first information; further, it can determine the third time domain location according to the first offset and the first time domain location.

[0149] For example, the first DCI scheduling terminal device receives the first downlink data in time slot 0. If the first reference signal is of type A, the first information is used to configure the first reference signal to occupy the third symbol of one time slot. If the first reference signal occupies one symbol, then the first time domain position can specifically be the third symbol of time slot 0. The above-mentioned first time domain position is offset in the direction of increasing time domain according to the indication of the first offset. If the first offset is one symbol, then the third time domain position is the fourth symbol of time slot 0.

[0150] Step 730: The access network device sends a first reference signal to the terminal device at the third time domain location.

[0151] Accordingly, the terminal device receives the first reference signal from the access network device at the third time domain location.

[0152] The entity executing step 730 can also be a module of the access network device or a module of the terminal device. The description of step 730 above can also be replaced by: the module of the access network device sending a first reference signal to the terminal device at a third time domain location. Correspondingly, the module of the terminal device receiving the first reference signal from the access network device at a third time domain location.

[0153] The second reference signal is periodic. The time-domain position of the second reference signal in each period satisfies the following: taking the initial time-domain position as a reference point, the time-domain position of the second reference signal in each period is determined by extension according to the period of the second reference signal. The initial time-domain position is the time-domain position occupied by the second reference signal in the first period. Optionally, the period of the second reference signal is 1.25ms, and each period contains one or more second reference signals.

[0154] For example, the period of the second reference signal is 1.25 ms. With a subcarrier spacing of 30 kHz, this 1.25 ms period corresponds to 35 symbols. The period of the second reference signal can also be referred to as 35 symbols.

[0155] In one possible implementation, each period includes a second reference signal, and the starting time-domain position occupies the third symbol of a time slot. For example, the aforementioned time slot could refer to time slot 0, meaning that the starting time-domain position (i.e., the second reference signal within the first period) occupies the third symbol of time slot 0. Optionally, time slot 0 could refer to a time slot used for frame synchronization.

[0156] Referring to Figure 6a, the sensing reference signal shown in Figure 6a can be considered as the second reference signal described here. The starting time-domain position of the second reference signal is the third symbol in time slot 0. Using the third symbol in time slot 0 as a reference point, the time-domain position of the second reference signal in each period is determined by extension with a period of 1.25 ms. It can be understood that the aforementioned starting time-domain position, the third symbol in time slot 0, can be considered as the time-domain position of the second reference signal in the first period. Extending with a period of 1.25 ms, the time-domain position of the second reference signal in the second period can be determined as the tenth symbol in time slot 3, the second symbol in the third period as the second symbol in time slot 5, the second symbol in the fourth period as the tenth symbol in time slot 7, and so on, without further examples.

[0157] Each cycle contains a second reference signal. The starting time domain position occupies the 4th symbol of a time slot. For example, if a time slot is time slot 0, then the starting time domain position occupies the 4th symbol of time slot 0.

[0158] Referring to Figure 6b, the sensing reference signal shown in Figure 6b can be considered as the second reference signal described here. The starting time-domain position of the second reference signal is the 4th symbol in time slot 0. Using the 4th symbol in time slot 0 as a reference point, the time-domain position of the second reference signal in each period is determined by extension with a period of 1.25 ms. It can be understood that the aforementioned starting time-domain position, the 4th symbol in time slot 0, can be considered as the time-domain position of the second reference signal in the first period. Extending with a period of 1.25 ms, the time-domain position of the second reference signal in the second period can be determined as the 11th symbol in time slot 3, the time-domain position of the second reference signal in the third period as the 4th symbol in time slot 5, the time-domain position of the second reference signal in the fourth period as the 11th symbol in time slot 7, and so on, without further examples.

[0159] In one possible implementation, the access network device can determine or obtain the time-domain position (i.e., the starting time-domain position) occupied by the second reference signal within the first cycle and the period of the second reference signal. Using the starting time-domain position as a reference point, the access network device extends the signal according to the period of the second reference signal to determine the time-domain position of the sensing reference signal in each cycle; and transmits the second reference signal at the corresponding time-domain position. Optionally, the access network device can stop transmitting the second reference signal when certain triggering conditions are met. For example, the triggering condition could be obtaining the corresponding sensing result.

[0160] In this application, the access network device can obtain the starting time-domain position of the second reference signal and the period of the second reference signal. The access network device can also obtain the first time-domain position of the first reference signal; this first time-domain position refers to the time-domain position configured for the terminal device to receive the first reference signal. When the starting time-domain position of the second reference signal overlaps with the first time-domain position of the first reference signal, the access network device can send second information to the terminal device to indicate the offset amount corresponding to the offset of the first time-domain position.

[0161] In one interpretation, the "second time-domain position" of the second reference signal described in this application may refer to the "starting time-domain position" of the second reference signal, and the first time-domain position of the first reference signal may refer to the time-domain position of the configured first reference signal. The third time-domain position of the first reference signal may be the time-domain position of the first reference signal after offset or shift.

[0162] For example, in the examples of Figure 6a or Figure 6b, the starting time-domain position of the second reference signal is the third or fourth symbol of a time slot (e.g., the third or fourth symbol of time slot 0). The first reference signal of type A also occupies the third or fourth symbol of a time slot, causing overlap between the two. Therefore, the first time-domain position of the first reference signal can be offset or shifted to avoid overlap.

[0163] In another possible implementation, each cycle includes multiple second reference signals, such as four. The second time-domain position of the second reference signal in this application can refer to the time-domain position of any reference number included in a cycle. For example, if the time-domain position of any of the four second reference signals included in a cycle overlaps with the first time-domain position of the first reference signal, then the first time-domain position of the first reference signal can be offset or shifted according to the first offset indicated by the second information.

[0164] As shown in Figure 8a or Figure 8b, one period contains four second reference signals. The pattern of the four second reference signals within one period is as follows: the first two second reference signals occupy the 5th and 9th symbols of one time slot (e.g., time slot 0), and the last two second reference signals occupy the 5th and 9th symbols of another time slot (e.g., time slot 1). Furthermore, the time-domain position of the second reference signals within each period can be determined by extending the pattern of the second reference signals shown in Figure 8a or Figure 8b with a period of 1.25 ms.

[0165] Taking the overlap of the time domain positions of the first reference signal of type A and the second reference signal shown in Figure 8a as an example, the process of this application will be explained:

[0166] One period contains four second reference signals, which occupy the 5th symbol of time slot 0, the 9th symbol of time slot 0, the 5th symbol of time slot 1, and the 9th symbol of time slot 1, respectively. Alternatively, the four second reference signals in one period may occupy the 4th, 8th, 9th, and 10th symbols of one time slot, or the 4th, 5th, 6th, and 10th symbols of one time slot. The pattern of the above-mentioned second reference signals can be considered as the pattern of the multiplexed tracking reference signal (TRS).

[0167] As shown in Figure 8a, the first reference signal of type A occupies the 4th and 5th symbols of a time slot. Specifically, a system message can indicate that the starting time domain position of the first reference signal of type A occupies the 4th symbol of a time slot, such as the value of the corresponding information element contained in the system message being Pos3. The first reference signal of type A occupies 2 symbols. Therefore, the terminal device can determine that the first reference signal of type A occupies the 4th and 5th symbols of a time slot. As shown in Figure 8a, it can be seen that in time slot 0 or time slot 1, on the 5th symbol, the time domain positions of the first reference signal and the second reference signal overlap.

[0168] In this application, prioritizing sensing performance, the access network device can perform time-domain offset or time-domain shift on the first time-domain position of the first reference signal. The specific number of symbols for time-domain offset or shift is not limited, as long as the overlap or conflict between the time-domain positions of the first and second reference signals is avoided. For example, in Figure 8a, the access network device offsets or shifts the first reference signal by two symbols, and the offset or shifted first reference signal occupies the 6th and 7th symbols of a time slot. The access network device transmits the first reference signal on the 6th and 7th symbols of a time slot. It is understood that the 6th and 7th symbols in the time slot were originally configured for transmitting downlink data or PDSCH. Due to the offset or shift of the first reference signal, downlink data or PDSCH cannot be transmitted on the 6th and 7th symbols. In one possible implementation, on symbols 6 and 7, when the first reference signal conflicts with the transmission of PDSCH or downlink data, the access network device prioritizes transmitting the first reference signal on symbols 6 and 7, and no longer transmits PDSCH or downlink data. Similarly, for the terminal device, the terminal device receives the first reference signal on symbols 6 and 7, and no longer receives PDSCH or downlink data.

[0169] Simultaneously, the access network device can send second information to the terminal device, such as the first offset indicated by the second information. The terminal device can determine the third time-domain position of the first reference signal based on the first offset and the first time-domain position of the first reference signal. The first time-domain position of the first reference signal can be understood as the configured time-domain position of the first reference signal. The third time-domain position of the first reference signal can be understood as the time-domain position of the first reference signal after offset or shift. For example, if the first time-domain position of the first reference signal (i.e., the configured time-domain position of the first reference signal) is the 4th and 5th symbols in a time slot, and the unit of the first offset is symbols, and the value of the first offset is equal to 2, then the terminal device can shift by 2 symbols, and the terminal device receives the first reference signal at the 6th and 7th symbols in a time slot.

[0170] As shown in Figure 8b, the first reference signal of type B occupies the first symbol of the PDSCH. For example, the DCI schedules PDSCH or downlink data in symbols 5 to 10 of a time slot. Therefore, the 5th symbol is used to transmit DMRS, and symbols 6 to 10 are used to transmit PDSCH or downlink data. Since in the aforementioned design where one cycle contains four second reference signals, the first and third second reference signals in each cycle also occupy the 5th symbol of a time slot. The second reference signals conflict with the first reference signal of type B. The access network equipment shifts the first reference signal of type B. There is no specific limit to the number of shifts, as long as the conflict is avoided. In the example in Figure 8b, a shift of one symbol is used. The shifted first reference signal of type B occupies the 6th symbol of a time slot, and this 6th symbol no longer transmits PDSCH or downlink data; the PDSCH or downlink data actually occupies symbols 7 to 10.

[0171] Accordingly, the access network device sends second information to the terminal device, such as the second information indicating that the value of the first offset is equal to 1. The terminal device determines the third time domain position based on the first offset and the first time domain position. For example, based on the original time domain position of the first reference signal of type B at the 5th symbol, it offsets by 1 symbol and receives the first reference signal of type B at the 6th symbol in the same time slot.

[0172] Optionally, the terminal device can also report to the access network device whether it has the capability to handle conflicts between the first reference signal and the second reference signal.

[0173] For example, when a first reference signal and a second reference signal conflict, does the terminal device have the capability to shift the time-domain position of the first reference signal? For instance, the terminal device sends fourth information to the access network device, indicating whether the terminal device has or does not have the capability to shift the time-domain position of the first reference signal when the time-domain positions of the second and first reference signals overlap. It can be understood that if the terminal device has this capability, then the terminal device supports shifting the time-domain position of the first reference signal. Alternatively, if the terminal device does not have this capability, then the terminal device does not support shifting the time-domain position of the first reference signal. The functional description of the fourth information can also be replaced with: the fourth information indicates whether the terminal device supports or does not support shifting the time-domain position of the first reference signal when the time-domain positions of the second and first reference signals overlap.

[0174] In one possible implementation, the terminal device may report whether it supports the ability to shift the time-domain position of the first reference signal of type A. For example, the fourth information is used to indicate whether it supports or does not support: when the time-domain positions of the second reference signal and the first reference signal of type A overlap, the time-domain position of the first reference signal of type A is shifted. More specifically, it can be described as follows: the fourth information is used to indicate whether the terminal device supports or does not support: because the first reference signal of type A conflicts with the second reference signal, the first reference signal of type A is shifted, the first reference signal of type A occupies 1 or 2 symbols, and the first reference signal includes a preceding reference signal but does not include other reference signals. For example, the first reference signal is called DMRS, the second reference signal is called ISAC-RS, and the name of the fourth information can be: PDSCH-TypeA-DMRS ISAC-r20. The full name of ISAC-R20 can be Integrated Sensing and Communication-Release-20.

[0175] In one possible implementation, the terminal device may report whether it supports the ability to shift the time-domain position of the first reference signal of type B. For example, the fourth information indicates whether it supports or does not support shifting the time-domain position of the first reference signal of type B when the time-domain positions of the second reference signal and the first reference signal of type B overlap. More specifically, it can be described as follows: The fourth information indicates whether the terminal device supports or does not support shifting the first reference signal of type B due to a conflict with the second reference signal. The first reference signal of type B occupies one symbol, and it includes a preceding reference signal but does not include other reference signals. For example, the first reference signal is called DMRS, the second reference signal is called ISAC-RS, and the name of the fourth information could be: PDSCH-TypeB-DMRS ISAC-r20.

[0176] Optionally, the capabilities reported by the terminal device can be considered as newly added capabilities of the terminal device. The access network device can configure a second reference signal (such as a sensing reference signal) based on the capabilities reported by the terminal device. For example, if the terminal device does not support shifting the first reference signal of type A, then when configuring the second reference signal, it is necessary to avoid the position of the first reference signal of type A, such as the 3rd or 4th symbol of a time slot. Alternatively, the second reference signal may not be configured at the aforementioned position. As another example, if the terminal device does not support shifting the first reference signal of type B, then when configuring the second reference signal, it is necessary to avoid the position of the first reference signal of type B, such as the 1st symbol of the PDSCH. Alternatively, the second reference signal may not be configured at the aforementioned position.

[0177] In the proposed method, after the access network device transmits the second reference signal at the second time domain location: the access network device can receive the echo signal corresponding to the second reference signal, or the terminal device can receive the corresponding echo signal. It is understood that the echo signal and the second reference signal can occupy the same time domain location, and the echo signal and the second reference signal are essentially the same. Therefore, the above process can also be described as: the access network device or the terminal device receives the second reference signal at the second time domain location. Furthermore, the sensing result can be determined by analyzing the echo signal.

[0178] It should be noted that the order of steps in the various processes of this application is not limited. In the method shown in Figure 7, the order of steps 710 to 730 is not limited. For example, besides the order of steps shown in Figure 7, in one possible implementation, step 720a may also be located before step 710. The actual solution may include more or fewer steps than the method shown in Figure 7, and one step may be divided into multiple steps, etc. For example, the entire process of the method shown in Figure 7 may also be as follows: the access network device sends first information to the terminal device to configure the first time domain position of the first reference signal. The access network device determines a third time domain position based on the first and second time domain positions; the access network device determines a first offset based on the third and first time domain positions; the access network device sends second information to indicate the first offset. The terminal device determines the third time domain position based on the first time domain position and the first offset indicated by the second information; then, the access network device sends the first reference signal at the third time domain position; the terminal device receives the first reference signal at the first time domain position.

[0179] As described above, when the time domain positions of the second reference signal and the first reference signal overlap, the time domain position of the first reference signal can be shifted, and the first reference signal can be sent at the shifted time domain position, thereby avoiding conflict between the first reference signal and the second reference signal.

[0180] Figure 9 provides a flowchart of a communication method, which includes:

[0181] Step 910: Transfer of sensing configuration information between terminal equipment, access network equipment and sensing network elements.

[0182] The full English name for sensing configuration information transfer can be (sensing configuration information transfer). Referring to Figure 9, optionally, the access network device includes logical nodes such as CU, DU, and RU. Optionally, if the DU is an integrated DU, then the integrated DU includes DU and RU functions, and the access network device may not include RU. The network element that implements the sensing function in the core network can be an SF network element, or a network element where LMF and SF are co-located, or an LMF network element, etc. Optionally, during step 910, the terminal device reports to the access network device whether it supports the following capability: the ability to shift the first reference signal when the first reference signal conflicts with the second reference signal. For example, the terminal device sends fourth information to the access network device. Further, before step 910, the terminal device can receive system messages and RRC messages from the terminal device. The system message contains: the index of the starting position of the first reference signal of type A in a time slot (such as Pos2 or Pos3). The RRC message is used to configure DMRS, such as: whether the type of the first reference signal is type B. Further, the RRC message also contains the number of symbols occupied by the first reference signal, etc. Optionally, the RRC message may also include second information indicating the first offset. Alternatively, during step 950 below, the access network device may send the second information to the terminal device, etc., without limitation.

[0183] Step 920-1: The sensing network element sends a sensing information request to the access network device.

[0184] Accordingly, the access network device receives sensing information requests from the sensing network element.

[0185] The full English name for "sensing information request" is "sensing information request," which is used to request the access network device to perform a sensing task.

[0186] Step 920-2: The access network device sends a sensing information response to the sensing network element.

[0187] Accordingly, the sensing network element receives sensing information responses from the access network device.

[0188] The full English name for "sensing information response" is that access network devices can agree to or reject requests from sensing network elements.

[0189] Optionally, step 930-1: The sensing network element or access network device sends a sensing information request to the terminal device.

[0190] Accordingly, the terminal device receives a sensing information request from a sensing network element or access network device, which is used to request the terminal device to perform a sensing task.

[0191] Optionally, step 930-2: The terminal device sends a sensing information response to the sensing network element or access network device.

[0192] Accordingly, the sensing network element or access network device receives sensing information responses from the terminal device.

[0193] Step 940: The sensing network element sends a sensing measurement request to the access network device.

[0194] Accordingly, the access network device receives sensing measurement requests from the sensing network element.

[0195] The full English name for the sensing measurement request is "sensing measurement request," which is used to request instructions from the access network device to configure a second reference signal. Upon receiving this request, the access network device can configure the second reference signal. The second reference signal is used to detect or sense a target. The pattern of the second reference signal can be found in Figures 6a, 6b, 8a, or 8b.

[0196] Step 950: The access network device and the terminal device perform a sensing process.

[0197] For example, the access network device sends a second reference signal. This second reference signal reaches the target and, after reflection or scattering by the target, forms an echo signal. The terminal device receives this echo signal. The access network device and the terminal device can interact to determine the sensing measurement results. In step 950: if the time domain position of the second reference signal conflicts with that of the first reference signal, the access network device can send second information to the terminal device to indicate the first offset. Optionally, the second information can be transmitted at layer 3. Optionally, the DU in the access network device can send the second information to the RU through the eCPRI interface. The RU sends the second information to the terminal device through the air interface. This eCPRI interface is the interface between the DU and the RU. Alternatively, the link between the DU and the RU is called a fronthaul link, and can also be described as: transmitting or carrying the second information on the fronthaul link, etc.

[0198] Step 960: The access network device sends the sensing measurement results to the sensing network element.

[0199] Accordingly, the sensing network element receives sensing measurement results from the access network equipment.

[0200] With the above design, when the time domain positions of the first reference signal and the second reference signal overlap, the access network device can shift the first reference signal and notify the terminal device, thereby resolving the conflict between the first reference signal and the second reference signal.

[0201] In the embodiments provided above, the methods provided by the embodiments of this application are described from the perspective of the interaction between the terminal device and the access network device. To implement the functions of the methods provided by the embodiments of this application, the terminal device or access network device may include hardware structures and / or software modules, implementing the above functions in the form of hardware structures, software modules, or a combination of hardware structures and software modules. Whether a particular function is executed in the form of hardware structures, software modules, or a combination of hardware structures and software modules depends on the design constraints of the specific application of the technical solution.

[0202] Based on the same design concept as the above-described method embodiments, Figures 10 and 11 are schematic diagrams of possible communication devices provided in the embodiments of this application. These communication devices can realize the functions implemented by terminal devices or access network devices in the above-described method embodiments, and therefore may achieve the beneficial effects possessed by the above-described method embodiments. In the embodiments of this application, the communication device may be a terminal device or access network device, or a unit, module, or component (such as a chip, chip system, circuit, processor, or others) applied in a terminal device or access network device. In the following description, the term "unit" will be used as an example. For example, in the following description, the communication device includes a processing unit and a transceiver unit as an example. The processing unit in the following description can also be replaced by: processing module or processing component, etc. The transceiver unit can also be replaced by: transceiver unit or transceiver component. For example, the transceiver component may refer to a communication module.

[0203] As shown in Figure 10, the communication device 1000 includes a processing unit 1010 and a transceiver unit 1020. The communication device 1000 is used to implement the functions of the terminal device or access network device in the method shown in Figure 7.

[0204] Optionally, the transceiver unit 1020 may also be referred to as an output unit, an interface unit, or a communication unit, etc. In one possible implementation, the transceiver unit 1020 includes at least one of a transmitting unit or a receiving unit. The transmitting unit and the receiving unit may be integrated together, or they may be two independent units, etc.

[0205] When the communication device 1000 is used to implement the functions of the terminal device in the method shown in FIG7, specifically: the transceiver unit 1020 is used to receive first information and second information, the first information is used to configure a first time domain position of a first reference signal, the first reference signal is used to demodulate downlink data, the first time domain position overlaps with the second time domain position of a second reference signal, the second reference signal is used to sense or detect a target, and the second information is used to indicate a first offset; the processing unit 1010 is used to determine a third time domain position based on the first offset and the first time domain position; the transceiver unit 1020 is also used to receive the first reference signal at the third time domain position.

[0206] When the communication device 1000 is used to implement the function of the access network device in the method shown in FIG7, specifically: the transceiver unit 1020 is used to send first information and second information, the first information is used to configure the first time domain position of the first reference signal, the first reference signal is used to demodulate downlink data, the first time domain position overlaps with the second time domain position of the second reference signal, the second reference signal is used to sense or detect a target, and the second information is used to indicate a first offset; the processing unit 1010 is used to determine a third time domain position according to the first time domain position and the second time domain position; the transceiver unit 1020 is also used to send the first reference signal at the third time domain position.

[0207] For details on the implementation of the processing unit 1010 and the transceiver unit 1020, please refer to the description of the method shown in Figure 7 of the previous method embodiment, which will not be repeated here.

[0208] It is understood that the division of units in this application embodiment is illustrative and only represents one logical functional division. In actual implementation, there may be other division methods. In addition, the functional units in this application embodiment can be integrated into a physical device (e.g., in a processor), or each functional unit can be a separate physical device, or two or more units can be integrated into one unit. The integrated unit can be implemented in hardware or as a software functional module, etc.

[0209] As shown in Figure 11, the communication device 1100 includes a processor 1110 and an interface circuit 1120. The processor 1110 and the interface circuit 1120 are coupled to each other. It is understood that the interface circuit 1120 can be a transceiver or an input / output interface. Optionally, the communication device 1100 may also include a memory 1130 for storing instructions executed by the processor 1110, or storing input data required by the processor 1110 to execute instructions, or storing data generated after the processor 1110 executes instructions.

[0210] When the communication device 1100 is used to implement the method shown in FIG7, the processor 1110 is used to implement the function of the processing unit 1010, and the interface circuit 1120 is used to implement the function of the transceiver unit 1020.

[0211] When the aforementioned communication device is a chip / module applied to a terminal device, the chip / module implements the functions of the terminal device in the above method embodiments. The chip / module receives information sent to the terminal device by the access network device through other modules in the terminal device; or, the chip / module sends information to other modules in the terminal device, which is information sent by the terminal device to the access network device.

[0212] When the aforementioned communication device is a chip / module applied to an access network device, the chip / module implements the functions of the access network device in the above method embodiments. The chip / module receives information from other modules in the access network device, which is information sent by the terminal device to the access network device; or, the chip / module sends information to other modules in the access network device, which is information sent by the access network device to the terminal device.

[0213] This application embodiment also provides a chip, which can be a chip applied in a terminal device, simply referred to as a terminal device chip, used to implement the functions of the terminal device in the method shown in FIG7. Alternatively, the chip can be a chip applied in an access network device, simply referred to as an access network device chip, used to implement the functions of the access network device in the method shown in FIG7. For example, the chip can be a modem chip, also known as a baseband chip, or a system-on-chip (SoC) chip containing a modem core, or a system-in-package (SIP) chip. As shown in FIG12:

[0214] The chip includes at least one processor for implementing the functions of the terminal device or access network device in the method shown in Figure 7. For example, in Figure 12, the plurality of processors are represented as processor #1 to processor #N, where N is an integer greater than or equal to 1. For example, the processor may be a microprocessor, such as an X116 or ARM, a microcontroller, DSP, FPGA, GPU, programmable logic device, state machine, gated logic, discrete hardware circuitry, and other suitable hardware configured to perform the appropriate functions.

[0215] Optionally, the chip may further include at least one memory for storing computer program instructions and / or data. The memory is coupled to the processor. The coupling in this embodiment is an indirect coupling or communication connection between devices, units, or modules, which may be electrical, mechanical, or other forms, used for information exchange between devices, units, or modules. The processor and memory operate collaboratively; the processor executes the program instructions stored in the memory to implement the method of the terminal device or access network device shown in FIG. 7 of this embodiment. At least one of the at least one memory may be included in the processor.

[0216] The chip may also include at least one communication interface for communicating with other devices via a transmission medium. In this embodiment, the communication interface may be a transceiver, circuit, bus, module, or other type of communication interface, and may be referred to as a bus interface. In this embodiment, when the communication interface is a transceiver, the transceiver may include an independent receiver, an independent transmitter, or a transceiver with integrated transceiver functions, or an interface circuit.

[0217] In this embodiment, the connection medium between the processor, memory, and communication interface is not limited. Optionally, in Figure 12, the processor, memory, and communication interface are connected via a bus. The bus may include an address bus, a data bus, and a control bus, etc. In Figure 12, only a single thick line is used, but this does not indicate that there is only one bus or one type of bus. In one possible implementation, the bus may include any number of interconnect buses and bridges, depending on the specific application of the chip and overall design constraints. The bus couples various circuits together, such as the processor, memory, and communication interface. The bus can also link various other circuits, such as timing sources, peripherals, voltage regulators, and power management circuits, which are well known in the art and therefore will not be described further.

[0218] This application embodiment also provides a communication device, which includes a processor for implementing the functions of the terminal device or access network device in the method shown in FIG7. Optionally, the communication device further includes a memory, with the processor coupled to the memory. The processor is used to execute computer programs or instructions stored in the memory to implement the functions of the terminal device or access network device in the method shown in FIG7. Optionally, the communication device may be a chip or a chip system.

[0219] This application embodiment also provides a communication device, including a processor and an interface circuit. The interface circuit is used to receive signals from other devices outside the device and transmit them to the processor, or to send signals from the processor to other devices outside the device. The processor is used to implement the functions of the terminal device or access network device in the method shown in FIG7 above through logic circuits or execution code instructions.

[0220] This application also provides a computer-readable storage medium storing instructions, which may also be referred to as computer programs, computer program code, etc. These instructions, when executed on a computer, cause the computer to perform the functions of the terminal device or access network device in the method shown in FIG7.

[0221] This application also provides a computer program product, including a computer program or instructions, which, when run on a computer, implement the functions of the terminal device or access network device in the method shown in FIG7 above.

[0222] It is understood that the processor 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, transistor logic devices, hardware components, or any combination thereof. A general-purpose processor can be a microprocessor or any conventional processor.

[0223] The memory in the embodiments of this application may be random access memory (RAM), flash memory, read-only memory (ROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), register, hard disk, portable hard disk, CD-ROM, or any other form of storage medium known in the art.

[0224] The method steps in the embodiments of this application can be implemented in hardware or in software instructions executable by a processor. The software instructions can consist of corresponding software modules, which can be stored in random access memory, flash memory, read-only memory, programmable read-only memory, erasable programmable read-only memory, electrically erasable programmable read-only memory, registers, hard disks, portable hard disks, CD-ROMs, or any other form of storage medium well known in the art. An exemplary storage medium is coupled to a processor, enabling the processor to read information from and write information to the storage medium. The storage medium can also be a component of the processor. The processor and the storage medium can reside in an ASIC.

[0225] 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. This computer program product includes one or more computer programs or instructions. When the computer program or instructions are loaded and executed on a computer, the processes or functions described in the embodiments of this application are performed entirely or partially. The computer can be a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, a computer network, an access network device, a user equipment, or other programmable device. The computer program or instructions can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium or transferred from one computer-readable storage medium to another. For example, the computer program or instructions can be transferred from one website, computer, server, or data center to another website, computer, server, or data center via wired or wireless means. The computer-readable storage medium can be any available medium accessible to a computer or a data storage device such as a server or data center integrating one or more available media. The available medium can be a magnetic medium, such as a floppy disk, hard disk, or magnetic tape; it can also be an optical medium, such as a digital video optical disc; or it can be a semiconductor medium, such as a solid-state drive. The computer-readable storage medium may be a volatile or non-volatile storage medium, or may include both types of storage media.

[0226] In the various embodiments of this application, unless otherwise specified or in case of logical conflict, the terminology 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.

Claims

1. A communication method characterized by comprising: The method is applied to a first device, including: Receive first information and second information, wherein the first information is used to configure a first time domain position of a first reference signal, the first reference signal is used to demodulate downlink data, the first time domain position overlaps with the second time domain position of a second reference signal, the second reference signal is used to sense or detect a target, and the second information is used to indicate a first offset. The third time domain position is determined based on the first offset and the first time domain position; At the third time domain location, the first reference signal is received.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein, The second reference signal is periodic, and the time domain position of the second reference signal in each period satisfies the following: taking the starting time domain position as a reference point, the second reference signal is extended according to the period to determine the time domain position of the second reference signal in each period, wherein the starting time domain position is the time domain position occupied by the second reference signal in the first period.

3. The method of claim 2, wherein, The period of the second reference signal is 1.25ms, and each period contains one or more of the second reference signals.

4. The method of claim 2 or 3, wherein, When a period contains a second reference signal, the starting time domain position occupies the third or fourth symbol of a time slot.

5. The method of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The second time domain position is the starting time domain position.

6. The method of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, Determining the third time-domain position based on the first offset and the first time-domain position includes: The device receives a first downlink control information (DCI), and the first DCI schedules the first device to receive first downlink data in a first time slot. In the first time slot, the first time domain position is determined based on the first information; The third time domain position is determined based on the first offset and the first time domain position.

7. The method of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein, The first information is used to configure the first time domain position of the first reference signal, including: the first information is used to configure the index of the symbol occupied by the starting time domain position of the first reference signal in a time slot.

8. The method of claim 7, wherein, The first information configuration specifies that the starting time domain position of the first reference signal occupies the third or fourth symbol of a time slot.

9. The method of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein, The first information is used to configure the first time domain position of the first reference signal, including: the first information is used to configure the first reference signal to occupy the first N time domain resources in the time domain resources corresponding to its demodulated downlink data, where N is an integer greater than zero.

10. The method of any one of claims 7 to 9, wherein, If the number of symbols occupied by the first reference signal is predefined, or configured for the first device, it further includes: Receive third information, which is used to configure the number of symbols occupied by the first reference signal.

11. The method of any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein, Also includes: Send a fourth message, which indicates whether the first device supports or does not support: when the time domain positions of the second reference signal and the first reference signal overlap, offset the time domain position of the first reference signal.

12. The method of any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein, Also includes: At the second time domain location, the second reference signal is received.

13. A communication method characterized by comprising: The method is applied to a second device, including: Send first information and second information. The first information is used to configure the first time domain position of the first reference signal. The first reference signal is used to demodulate downlink data. The first time domain position overlaps with the second time domain position of the second reference signal. The second reference signal is used to sense or detect a target. The second information is used to indicate the first offset. The third time domain position is determined based on the first time domain position and the second time domain position; At the third time domain location, the first reference signal is transmitted.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein, The second reference signal is periodic, and the time domain position of the second reference signal in each period satisfies the following: taking the starting time domain position as a reference point, the second reference signal is extended according to the period to determine the time domain position of the second reference signal in each period, wherein the starting time domain position is the time domain position occupied by the second reference signal in the first period.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein, The period of the second reference signal is 1.25ms, and each period contains one or more of the second reference signals.

16. The method of claim 14 or 15, wherein, When a period contains a second reference signal, the starting time domain position occupies the third or fourth symbol of a time slot.

17. The method according to any one of claims 13 to 16, characterized in that, The second time domain position is the starting time domain position.

18. The method according to any one of claims 13 to 17, characterized in that, Determining the third time domain position based on the first time domain position and the second time domain position includes: Send a first downlink control information (DCI), and the first DCI schedules a first device to receive first downlink data in a first time slot; In the first time slot, the first time domain position is determined based on the first information; The third time domain position is determined based on the first time domain position and the second time domain position.

19. The method of any one of claims 13 to 18, wherein, The first information is used to configure the first time domain position of the first reference signal, including: the first information is used to configure the index of the symbol occupied by the starting time domain position of the first reference signal in a time slot.

20. The method of claim 19, wherein, The first information configuration specifies that the starting time domain position of the first reference signal occupies the third or fourth symbol of a time slot.

21. The method according to any one of claims 13 to 18, characterized in that, The first information is used to configure the first time domain position of the first reference signal, including: the first information is used to configure the first reference signal to occupy the first N time domain resources in the time domain resources corresponding to its demodulated downlink data, where N is an integer greater than zero.

22. The method according to any one of claims 19 to 21, characterized in that, If the number of symbols occupied by the first reference signal is predefined, or configured for the first device, it further includes: Receive third information, which is used to configure the number of symbols occupied by the first reference signal.

23. The method according to any one of claims 13 to 22, characterized in that, Also includes: The device receives a fourth piece of information, which indicates whether the first device supports or does not support: shifting the time domain position of the first reference signal when the time domain positions of the second reference signal and the first reference signal overlap.

24. The method according to any one of claims 13 to 23, characterized in that, Also includes: At the second time domain location, the second reference signal is transmitted.

25. A communication device, characterized in that, Includes units for implementing the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 12.

26. A communication device, characterized in that, Includes a processor configured to cause the communication device to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 12.

27. A communication device, characterized in that, Includes units for implementing the method as described in any one of claims 13 to 24.

28. A communication device, characterized in that, Includes a processor configured to cause the communication device to perform the method as described in any one of claims 13 to 24.

29. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The computer-readable storage medium stores instructions that, when executed, cause the communication device to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 12, or the method as described in any one of claims 13 to 24.

30. A computer program product, characterized in that, The computer program product includes instructions that, when executed, cause the communication device to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 12, or to perform the method as described in any one of claims 13 to 24.

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