Communication method and apparatus

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to the technical field of communications. Disclosed are a communication method and apparatus. The communication method in the present disclosure comprises: a network device sending a first-type SSB or sending an SSB according to a first period; and correspondingly, a terminal device receiving the first-type SSB or receiving the SSB according to the first period.

Description

Communication methods and devices

[0001] Cross-referencing related applications

[0002] This disclosure is based on and claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202510138085.8, filed on February 7, 2025, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

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

[0004] Synchronization signal blocks (SSBs) are used in communication systems to help terminal devices perform time-frequency synchronization and to enable them to perform initial cell selection and measurements. Generally, when the network load is zero or low, the process of network devices sending SSBs accounts for a significant proportion of the network device's power consumption.

[0005] Currently, network energy savings (network power saving) is a major concern for operators and equipment manufacturers, as it is beneficial for reducing operating costs and promoting environmental protection. Summary of the Invention

[0006] This disclosure provides a communication method and apparatus, a terminal device, and a network device, with the aim of reducing the frequency of SSB reception by the terminal device and / or reducing the frequency of SSB transmission by the network device.

[0007] Firstly, a communication method disclosed herein includes:

[0008] Receive Type I SSBs or receive SSBs according to the first cycle.

[0009] In one possible example of the first aspect, the method further includes:

[0010] Send a request message indicating at least one of the following: request to reduce the SSB period, the SSB period desired by the terminal device, or the downlink time-frequency out-of-sync level.

[0011] As can be seen, the terminal device informs the network device of downlink time-frequency synchronization issues through request information. Specifically, in response to a request indicating a request to reduce the SSB period, the terminal device requests the network device to reduce the SSB period. In response to a request indicating a desired SSB period, the terminal device informs the network device of its desired SSB period. In response to a request indicating the downlink time-frequency synchronization level, the terminal device informs the network device of the downlink time-frequency synchronization level. In this way, the network device can decide whether to adjust the SSB transmission frequency based on the request information.

[0012] It should be noted that requesting a reduction in the SSB cycle can be understood as requesting the network device to send more SSBs.

[0013] The desired SSB cycle for terminal devices needs to be smaller than that of Type 1 SSB or Type 1 cycle.

[0014] The downlink time-frequency out-of-synchronization level can represent the range of time-frequency drift rate. Different downlink time-frequency out-of-synchronization levels can represent different ranges of time-frequency drift rate. Thus, network devices can determine the range of time-frequency drift rate by using the downlink time-frequency out-of-synchronization level.

[0015] When network devices decide whether to adjust the SSB based on request information, they may not necessarily adjust it due to energy conservation considerations. For example, they might only send an aperiodic tracking reference signal (TRS) to the terminal devices to temporarily resolve downlink timing synchronization issues. However, when the network device receives a large number of request messages from terminal devices, it may adjust the SSB for those specific terminal devices.

[0016] In one possible example of the first aspect, the request information is carried by message 3.

[0017] As can be seen, during the RRC connection reconstruction process, the terminal device initiates a random access request. Then, after receiving the random access response (RAR) from the network device, the terminal device sends message 3. Message 3 carries request information. In this way, the terminal device informs the network device of downlink time-frequency synchronization issues via message 3.

[0018] In one possible example of the first aspect, the method further includes:

[0019] Receive instruction information, which indicates a second type of SSB, or indicates that an SSB will be received according to the second cycle.

[0020] As can be seen, the network device informs the terminal device of the relevant information regarding the SSB adjustment through the indication information. Specifically, in response to the indication information indicating the second type of SSB, the terminal device switches from receiving the first type of SSB to receiving the second type of SSB.

[0021] In response to the instruction message indicating that SSBs should be received according to the second cycle, the terminal device switches from receiving SSBs according to the first cycle to receiving SSBs according to the second cycle.

[0022] In one possible example of the first aspect, the method further includes:

[0023] In response to the terminal device receiving the indication information in the m-th millisecond, time slot, or symbol, the second type SSB is determined to be valid after the (m+d)-th millisecond, time slot, or symbol, or the period of the SSB is adjusted from the first period to the second period after the (m+d)-th millisecond, time slot, or symbol, where m and d are integers greater than or equal to 0.

[0024] As can be seen, due to the potential time difference between the network device sending the indication information and the terminal device parsing the indication information, the terminal device may need a delay of d milliseconds, time slots, or symbols to determine whether the Type II SSB is valid or whether the SSB period has been adjusted from the first period to the second period. When d is 0, this means that the terminal device determines whether the Type II SSB is valid or whether the SSB period has been adjusted from the first period to the second period immediately after the m-th millisecond, time slot, or symbol.

[0025] When the Type 2 SSB is active, it means that the terminal device has switched from receiving the Type 1 SSB to receiving the Type 2 SSB.

[0026] When the SSB period is adjusted from the first period to the second period, it means that the terminal device has changed from receiving SSB according to the first period to receiving SSB according to the second period.

[0027] In one possible example of the first aspect, the method further includes:

[0028] T milliseconds, time slots, or symbols after the reception time of the indication information, determine that the second type of SSB is valid, or determine that the period of the SSB is adjusted from the first period to the second period, where T is an integer greater than or equal to 0.

[0029] As can be seen, due to the potential time difference between the network device sending the indication information and the terminal device parsing the indication information, the terminal device may require a delay of T milliseconds, time slots, or symbols to determine whether the Type II SSB is valid or whether the SSB period has been adjusted from the first period to the second period. When T is 0, this indicates that the terminal device determines whether the Type II SSB is valid or whether the SSB period has been adjusted from the first period to the second period immediately after receiving the indication information.

[0030] In one possible example of the first aspect, the method further includes:

[0031] After X cycles of a Type 1 SSB following the reception time of the instruction message, determine that a Type 2 SSB is valid, or determine that the SSB cycle is adjusted from the first cycle to the second cycle, where X is an integer greater than or equal to 0.

[0032] As can be seen, due to the potential time difference between the network device sending the indication information and the terminal device parsing the indication information, the terminal device may need a delay of X periods of Type 1 SSB to determine whether the Type 2 SSB is valid or whether the SSB period is adjusted from the first period to the second period. When X is 0, this indicates that the terminal device determines whether the Type 2 SSB is valid or whether the SSB period is adjusted from the first period to the second period immediately after receiving the indication information.

[0033] In one possible example of the first aspect, the instruction information is carried by message 4.

[0034] As can be seen, when the request information is carried by message 3, since the network device usually needs to send message 4 to the terminal device after the terminal device sends message 3, some embodiments of this disclosure can carry indication information through message 4. In this way, the network device receives the relevant information regarding the SSB adjustment from the terminal device through message 4. That is, the terminal device receives the network device's adjustment of the SSB in message 4. Subsequently, the terminal device can receive the second type of SSB or receive SSBs according to the second cycle.

[0035] In one possible example of the first aspect, the instruction information is carried by the DCI.

[0036] Therefore, DCI can be viewed as Layer 1 signaling. Layer 1 signaling requires less processing time than Layer 3 signaling (such as message 4), meaning it is faster than Layer 2 signaling. In other words, the terminal device receives adjustments to the SSB from the network device within the DCI. Subsequently, the terminal device can receive Type 2 SSBs or receive SSBs according to the second cycle.

[0037] In one possible example of the first aspect, the instruction information is carried by the MAC CE.

[0038] Therefore, MAC CE can be considered as Layer 2 signaling. Layer 2 signaling requires less processing time than Layer 3 signaling, meaning it is faster, and it is more reliable than Layer 1 signaling. In other words, the terminal device receives adjustments to the SSB from the network device within the MAC CE. Subsequently, the terminal device can receive Type 2 SSBs or receive SSBs according to the second cycle.

[0039] In one possible example of the first aspect, the indication information is carried by the DCI in the PDCCH order.

[0040] As can be seen, after downlink time-frequency synchronization loss occurs, the network device may have already sensed it. At this time, the network device will send a PDCCH order to the terminal device. The PDCCH order can request the terminal device to perform specific operations to restore or improve its time-frequency synchronization. The PDCCH order carries indication information.

[0041] For example, a PDCCH order can require a terminal device to initiate a random access request or perform other reconnection attempts. Therefore, the terminal device can send a random access preamble on the PRACH resource so that the network device can recalculate the TA for time-frequency synchronization. The random access process typically includes steps such as the terminal device sending the random access preamble and the network device sending a RAR. The RAR contains information such as the TA used by the terminal device for time-frequency synchronization.

[0042] In this way, the network device informs the terminal device of the SSB adjustment information through the PDCCH order. That is, the terminal device receives the SSB adjustment from the network device in the PDCCH order. Subsequently, the terminal device can receive Type 2 SSBs or receive SSBs according to the second cycle (short cycle).

[0043] Secondly, a communication method disclosed herein includes:

[0044] Send a Type I SSB or send an SSB according to the first cycle.

[0045] In one possible example of the second aspect, the method also includes:

[0046] Receive a request message indicating at least one of the following: a request to reduce the SSB period, the SSB period desired by the terminal device, or the downlink time-frequency out-of-sync level.

[0047] As can be seen, the terminal device informs the network device of downlink time-frequency synchronization issues through request information. Specifically, in response to a request indicating a request to reduce the SSB period, the terminal device requests the network device to reduce the SSB period. In response to a request indicating a desired SSB period, the terminal device informs the network device of its desired SSB period. In response to a request indicating the downlink time-frequency synchronization level, the terminal device informs the network device of the downlink time-frequency synchronization level. In this way, the network device can decide whether to adjust the SSB transmission frequency based on the request information.

[0048] In one possible example of the second aspect, the request information is carried by message 3.

[0049] As can be seen, during the RRC connection reconstruction process, the terminal device initiates a random access request. Then, after receiving the RAR from the network device, the terminal device sends message 3; correspondingly, the network device receives message 3. At this time, message 3 carries request information. In this way, the terminal device informs the network device of downlink time-frequency synchronization issues through message 3.

[0050] In one possible example of the second aspect, the method also includes:

[0051] Send an instruction message indicating a Type 2 SSB, or an instruction message indicating that an SSB should be received according to the second cycle.

[0052] As can be seen, the network device informs the terminal device of the relevant information regarding SSB adjustments through indication information. Specifically, in response to the indication information indicating a Type II SSB, the network device switches from sending a Type I SSB to sending a Type II SSB.

[0053] In response to the instruction message indicating that SSBs should be received according to the second cycle, the network device switches from sending SSBs according to the first cycle to sending SSBs according to the second cycle.

[0054] In one possible example of the second aspect, the method also includes:

[0055] In response to the network device sending an indication message in the m-th millisecond, time slot, or symbol, the second type SSB is determined to be valid after the (m+d)-th millisecond, time slot, or symbol, or the period of the SSB is adjusted from the first period to the second period after the (m+d)-th millisecond, time slot, or symbol, where m and d are integers greater than or equal to 0.

[0056] As can be seen, due to the potential time difference between the network device sending the indication information and the terminal device parsing the indication information, the network device may need a delay of d milliseconds, time slots, or symbols to determine whether the Type II SSB is valid or whether the SSB period is adjusted from the first period to the second period. When d is 0, this means that the network device determines whether the Type II SSB is valid or whether the SSB period is adjusted from the first period to the second period immediately after the m-th millisecond, time slot, or symbol.

[0057] When the Type 2 SSB is active, it means that the terminal device has switched from receiving the Type 1 SSB to receiving the Type 2 SSB.

[0058] When the SSB period is adjusted from the first period to the second period, it means that the network device has changed from sending SSBs according to the first period to sending SSBs according to the second period.

[0059] In one possible example of the second aspect, the method also includes:

[0060] T milliseconds, time slots, or symbols after the transmission time of the indication information, determine that the second type of SSB is valid, or determine that the period of the SSB is adjusted from the first period to the second period, where T is an integer greater than or equal to 0.

[0061] As can be seen, due to the potential time difference between the network device sending the indication information and the terminal device parsing the indication information, the network device may require a delay of T milliseconds, time slots, or symbols to determine whether the Type II SSB is valid or whether the SSB period has been adjusted from the first period to the second period. When T is 0, this indicates that the network device determines whether the Type II SSB is valid or whether the SSB period has been adjusted from the first period to the second period immediately after receiving the indication information.

[0062] In one possible example of the second aspect, the method also includes:

[0063] After X cycles of a Type 1 SSB following the transmission time of the instruction message, determine whether a Type 2 SSB is valid, or determine whether the SSB cycle is adjusted from the first cycle to the second cycle, where X is an integer greater than or equal to 0.

[0064] As can be seen, due to the potential time difference between the network device sending the indication information and the terminal device parsing the indication information, the network device may need a delay of X periods of Type 1 SSB to determine whether the Type 2 SSB is valid or whether the SSB period is adjusted from the first period to the second period. When X is 0, this indicates that the network device determines whether the Type 2 SSB is valid or whether the SSB period is adjusted from the first period to the second period immediately after receiving the indication information.

[0065] In one possible example of the second aspect, the instruction information is carried by message 4.

[0066] As can be seen, when the request information is carried by message 3, since the network device usually needs to send message 4 to the terminal device after the terminal device sends message 3, some embodiments of this disclosure can carry indication information through message 4. In this way, the network device receives the relevant information regarding the SSB adjustment from the terminal device through message 4. That is, the terminal device receives the network device's adjustment of the SSB in message 4. Subsequently, the terminal device can receive the second type of SSB or receive SSBs according to the second cycle.

[0067] In one possible example of the second aspect, the instruction information is carried by the DCI.

[0068] Therefore, DCI can be viewed as Layer 1 signaling. Layer 1 signaling requires less processing time than Layer 3 signaling (such as message 4), meaning it is faster than Layer 2 signaling. In other words, the terminal device receives adjustments to the SSB from the network device within the DCI. Subsequently, the terminal device can receive Type 2 SSBs or receive SSBs according to the second cycle.

[0069] In one possible example of the second aspect, the instruction information is carried by the MAC CE.

[0070] Therefore, MAC CE can be considered as Layer 2 signaling. Layer 2 signaling requires less processing time than Layer 3 signaling, meaning it is faster, and it is more reliable than Layer 1 signaling. In other words, the terminal device receives adjustments to the SSB from the network device within the MAC CE. Subsequently, the terminal device can receive Type 2 SSBs or receive SSBs according to the second cycle.

[0071] In one possible example of the second aspect, the indication information is carried by the DCI in the PDCCH order.

[0072] As can be seen, after downlink time-frequency synchronization loss occurs, the network device may have already sensed it. At this time, the network device will send a PDCCH order to the terminal device. The PDCCH order can request the terminal device to perform specific operations to restore or improve its time-frequency synchronization. The PDCCH order carries indication information.

[0073] In this way, the network device informs the terminal device of the SSB adjustment information through the PDCCH order. That is, the terminal device receives the SSB adjustment from the network device in the PDCCH order. Subsequently, the terminal device can receive Type 2 SSBs or receive SSBs according to the second cycle (short cycle).

[0074] Thirdly, this disclosure provides a communication device, wherein the communication device includes:

[0075] The receiving unit is used to receive the first type of SSB or to receive SSB according to the first cycle.

[0076] In one possible example of the third aspect, the communication device also includes a transmitting unit;

[0077] The sending unit is used to send request information, which indicates at least one of the following: a request to reduce the SSB period, the SSB period desired by the terminal device, or the downlink time-frequency out-of-sync level.

[0078] In one possible example of the third aspect, the request information is carried by message 3.

[0079] In one possible example of the third aspect, the receiving unit is also configured to receive indication information, which indicates a second type of SSB, or the indication information indicates that an SSB is received according to a second cycle.

[0080] In one possible example of the third aspect, the communication device further includes a determining unit;

[0081] The determining unit is further configured to, in response to the terminal device receiving the indication information in the m-th millisecond, time slot, or symbol, determine that the second type of SSB is valid after the (m+d)-th millisecond, time slot, or symbol, or determine that the period of the SSB is adjusted from the first period to the second period after the (m+d)-th millisecond, time slot, or symbol, where m and d are integers greater than or equal to 0.

[0082] In one possible example of the third aspect, the communication device further includes a determining unit;

[0083] The determining unit is also used to determine that the second type of SSB is valid after T milliseconds, time slots or symbols following the reception time of the indication information, or to determine that the period of the SSB is adjusted from the first period to the second period, where T is an integer greater than or equal to 0.

[0084] In one possible example of the third aspect, the communication device further includes a determining unit;

[0085] The determining unit is also configured to determine that the second type of SSB is valid, or to determine that the period of the SSB is adjusted from the first period to the second period, X being an integer greater than or equal to 0, after X periods of the first type of SSB following the reception time of the indication information.

[0086] In one possible example of the third aspect, the instruction information is carried by message 4.

[0087] In one possible example of the third aspect, the instruction information is carried by the DCI.

[0088] In one possible example of the third aspect, the instruction information is carried by the MAC CE.

[0089] In one possible example of the third aspect, the indication information is carried by the DCI in the PDCCH order.

[0090] Fourthly, a communication device disclosed herein, wherein the communication device includes:

[0091] The transmitting unit is used to transmit the first type of SSB or to transmit SSB according to the first cycle.

[0092] In one possible example of the fourth aspect, the communication device also includes a receiving unit;

[0093] The receiving unit is used to receive request information, which indicates at least one of the following: a request to reduce the SSB period, the SSB period desired by the terminal device, or the downlink time-frequency out-of-sync level.

[0094] In one possible example of the fourth aspect, the request information is carried by message 3.

[0095] In one possible example of the fourth aspect, the transmitting unit is also used to transmit indication information, which indicates a second type of SSB, or indicates that an SSB will be received according to a second cycle.

[0096] In one possible example of the fourth aspect, the communication device further includes a determining unit:

[0097] The determining unit is configured to, in response to the network device sending indication information in the m-th millisecond, time slot, or symbol, determine that the second type SSB is valid after the (m+d)-th millisecond, time slot, or symbol, or determine that the period of the SSB is adjusted from the first period to the second period after the (m+d)-th millisecond, time slot, or symbol, where m and d are integers greater than or equal to 0.

[0098] In one possible example of the fourth aspect, the communication device further includes a determining unit:

[0099] The determining unit is used to determine that the second type of SSB is valid, or to determine that the period of the SSB is adjusted from the first period to the second period, T being an integer greater than or equal to 0, after T milliseconds, time slots, or symbols following the transmission time of the indication information.

[0100] In one possible example of the fourth aspect, the communication device further includes a determining unit:

[0101] The determining unit is used to determine that a second type SSB is valid, or to determine that the period of the SSB is adjusted from the first period to the second period, X being an integer greater than or equal to 0, after X periods of the first type SSB following the transmission time of the indication information.

[0102] In one possible example of the fourth aspect, the instruction information is carried by message 4.

[0103] In one possible example of the fourth aspect, the instruction information is carried by the DCI.

[0104] In one possible example of the fourth aspect, the instruction information is carried by the MAC CE.

[0105] In one possible example of the fourth aspect, the indication information is carried by the DCI in the PDCCH order.

[0106] Fifthly, the steps in the method described in the first aspect above are applied to the terminal device.

[0107] Sixthly, the steps in the method described in the second aspect above are applied to network devices.

[0108] A seventh aspect is a terminal device disclosed herein, comprising a processor, a memory, and a computer program or instructions stored in the memory, wherein the processor executes the computer program or instructions to implement the steps of the method involved in the first aspect above.

[0109] Eighthly, a network device disclosed herein includes a processor, a memory, and a computer program or instructions stored in the memory, wherein the processor executes the computer program or instructions to implement the steps of the method involved in the second aspect above.

[0110] A ninth aspect is a chip disclosed herein, comprising a processor, wherein the processor performs the steps of the methods involved in the first or second aspect described above.

[0111] A tenth aspect is a chip module disclosed herein, including a transceiver component and a chip, the chip including a processor, wherein the processor performs the steps in the methods involved in the first or second aspect described above.

[0112] Eleventhly, there is a computer-readable storage medium of the present disclosure, wherein the computer-readable storage medium stores a computer program or instructions, which, when executed, implement the steps in the methods involved in the first or second aspect above.

[0113] The twelfth aspect is a computer program product of this disclosure, comprising a computer program or instructions, wherein, when executed, the computer program or instructions implement the steps of the methods involved in the first or second aspect described above. Exemplarily, the computer program product may be a software installation package.

[0114] The thirteenth aspect is a communication system disclosed herein, comprising the terminal equipment described in the seventh aspect and the network equipment described in the eighth aspect. Attached Figure Description

[0115] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the architecture of a communication system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0116] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the architecture of another communication system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0117] Figures 3 to 6 are schematic flowcharts of a communication method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0118] Figure 7 is a functional unit block diagram of a communication device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0119] Figure 8 is a functional unit block diagram of another communication device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0120] Figure 9 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a terminal device according to an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0121] Figure 10 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a network device according to an embodiment of this disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0122] It should be understood that the terms "first," "second," etc., used in the embodiments of this disclosure are used to distinguish different objects, rather than to describe a specific order. Furthermore, the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a process, method, software, product, or device that includes a series of steps or units is not limited to the listed steps or units, but may also include steps or units not listed, or may also include other steps or units inherent to these processes, methods, products, or devices.

[0123] The term "embodiment" as used in this disclosure means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment may be included in at least one embodiment of this disclosure. The appearance of this phrase in various places throughout the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor is it a separate or alternative embodiment mutually exclusive with other embodiments. It will be explicitly and implicitly understood by those skilled in the art that the embodiments described herein can be combined with other embodiments.

[0124] In the embodiments of this disclosure, "at least one" or "at least one item" means one or more, and "multiple" means two or more.

[0125] In this embodiment of the disclosure, "and / or" describes the relationship between associated objects, indicating that there can be three relationships. For example, A and / or B can represent the following three situations: A exists alone, A and B exist simultaneously, and B exists alone. Among them, A and B can be singular or plural.

[0126] In this disclosure, "at least one of the following" or similar expressions refer to any combination of these items, including any combination of single or multiple items. For example, at least one of a, b, or c can represent the following seven cases: a, b, c, a and b, a and c, b and c, a, b, and c. Each of a, b, and c can be an element or a set containing one or more elements.

[0127] In this disclosure, "equal to" can be used with "greater than" to apply to technical solutions where the value is greater than, or it can be used with "less than" to apply to technical solutions where the value is less than. When "equal to" is used with "greater than", it is not used with "less than"; when "equal to" is used with "less than", it is not used with "greater than".

[0128] In the embodiments of this disclosure, the terms "of," "corresponding (relevant)," "corresponding," "associated (related)," and "mapped" may sometimes be used interchangeably. It should be noted that, without emphasizing the distinction, the concepts or meanings expressed are consistent.

[0129] In this disclosure, "network" can be expressed as the same concept as "system," and a communication system is a communication network.

[0130] In this disclosure, "connection" refers to various connection methods, such as direct connection or indirect connection, to achieve communication between devices, and is not specifically limited thereto.

[0131] The following describes some examples of communication systems according to embodiments of this disclosure.

[0132] The technical solutions of this disclosure can be applied to various communication systems, such as: Long Term Evolution (LTE) systems, Advanced Long Term Evolution (LTE-A) systems, New Radio (NR) systems, evolution systems of NR systems, LTE-based access to unlicensed spectrum (LTE-U) systems, NR-based access to unlicensed spectrum (NR-U) systems, non-terrestrial networks (NTN) systems, Universal Mobile Telecommunication System (UMTS), or future communication systems, etc.

[0133] It should be noted that some communication systems support a limited number of user connections and are easy to implement. With the development of communication technology, the communication system disclosed herein can also support device-to-device (D2D) communication, machine-to-machine (M2M) communication, machine-type communication (MTC), vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communication, vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication, or narrowband Internet of Things (NB-IoT) communication, etc.

[0134] In some possible examples, the communication system disclosed herein can support beamforming, carrier aggregation (CA), dual connectivity (DC), or standalone (SA) deployment scenarios.

[0135] In some possible examples, the communication system of this disclosure can support communication scenarios using unlicensed spectrum. In this embodiment, unlicensed spectrum can also be considered as shared spectrum. Alternatively, this embodiment can also be applied to licensed spectrum. Licensed spectrum can also be considered as non-shared spectrum.

[0136] An exemplary network architecture of a communication system according to an embodiment of this disclosure is shown in FIG1. ​​In FIG1, the communication system 10 may include a network device 110 and a terminal device 120. The terminal device 120 can communicate with the network device 110 wirelessly.

[0137] Of course, Figure 1 is merely an example of a network architecture for a communication system and does not constitute a limitation on the network architecture of the communication system in this embodiment of the disclosure. For example, the communication system 10 may also include a server or other devices, or the communication system 10 may include other network devices besides network device 110, or the communication system 10 may include other terminal devices besides terminal device 120.

[0138] The following describes some examples of terminal devices mentioned in embodiments of this disclosure.

[0139] In some possible examples, the terminal device can be a device with transceiver capabilities, and may also be referred to as a terminal, user equipment (UE), remote terminal equipment (relay UE), relay equipment (relay UE), access terminal equipment, user unit, user station, mobile station, mobile station, remote station, mobile device, user terminal equipment, smart terminal equipment, wireless communication equipment, user agent, or user device. It should be noted that a relay device is a terminal device capable of providing relay forwarding services to other terminal devices (including remote terminal devices).

[0140] For example, terminal devices can be mobile phones, tablets, computers with wireless transceiver capabilities, virtual reality (VR) terminal devices, augmented reality (AR) terminal devices, wireless terminal devices in industrial control, wireless terminal devices in autonomous driving, wireless terminal devices in remote medical care, wireless terminal devices in smart grids, wireless terminal devices in transportation safety, wireless terminal devices in smart cities, or wireless terminal devices in smart homes, etc.

[0141] For example, a terminal device can be a cellular phone, cordless phone, session initiation protocol (SIP) phone, wireless local loop (WLL) station, personal digital assistant (PDA), handheld device with wireless communication capabilities, computing device or other processing device connected to a wireless modem, in-vehicle device, wearable device, terminal device in a future communication system, or terminal device in a future evolved public land mobile network (PLMN), etc., without specific limitations.

[0142] In some possible examples, the terminal device may include means for providing wireless communication functions for the terminal device, such as a chip system, a chip, or a chip module. The chip system may include a chip or other discrete components.

[0143] In some possible examples, the terminal device can be deployed on land, including indoors or outdoors, handheld, wearable, or vehicle-mounted; it can be deployed on water (such as on ships); or it can be deployed in the air (such as airplanes, balloons, and satellites). The terminal device may include a device with wireless communication capabilities, such as a chip system, chip, or chip module. For example, the chip system may include a chip, but may also include other discrete devices. The terminal device can be a chip, chip module, device, unit, etc., without specific limitations.

[0144] The following describes some network devices mentioned in embodiments of this disclosure.

[0145] In some possible examples, the network device can be a transceiver device that can be used to communicate with terminal devices.

[0146] In some possible examples, the network device may include means for providing wireless communication capabilities to the network device, such as a chip system, a chip, or a chip module. The chip system may include a chip or other discrete components.

[0147] In some possible examples, network devices provide services to a cell, and terminal devices within that cell can communicate with the network devices via transmission resources (such as spectrum resources). This cell can be a macro cell, small cell, metro cell, micro cell, pico cell, or femto cell, etc.

[0148] In some possible examples, the network device has mobility characteristics; for example, the network device can be a mobile device. Optionally, the network device can be a satellite or a balloon station. For example, the satellite can be a low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite, a medium Earth orbit (MEO) satellite, a geostationary Earth orbit (GEO) satellite, a high elliptical orbit (HEO) satellite, etc. Optionally, the network device can also be a base station located on land, water, or other similar locations.

[0149] In some possible examples, network devices may include access network devices and / or devices in the core network (CN).

[0150] The following provides an example of access network equipment.

[0151] In some possible examples, access network equipment can be referred to as radio access network (RAN) nodes. The RAN can be a network composed of multiple RAN nodes (e.g., 5G-RAN nodes), implementing radio physical layer functions, resource scheduling and radio resource management, radio access control, and mobility management functions. The RAN can connect to the user plane function (UPF) via the user plane interface N3, and can be used to transmit data from terminal devices; the RAN can establish a control plane signaling connection with the access and mobility management function (AMF) via the control plane interface N2, and is used to implement functions such as radio access bearer control. RAN nodes can be any device with wireless transceiver capabilities, including but not limited to 5G node base (gNB), evolved node base (eNB), access point (AP), world interoperability for microwave access base station (WiMAX BS), transmission receiving point (TRP), wireless relay node, wireless backhaul node, master node (MN) in a dual connectivity architecture, and secondary node (SN) in a dual connectivity architecture, etc.

[0152] In some possible examples, the access network device can refer to a device used to communicate with a terminal device. For example, the access network device can be a base transceiver station (BTS) in a Global System for Mobile Communication (GSM) or Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) system, a base station (nodeB, NB) in a Wideband Code Division Multiple Access (WCDMA) system, an evolved node base (eNB) in an LTE system, a radio controller in a cloud radio access network (CRAN) scenario, or a relay station, access point, vehicle-mounted equipment, wearable device, and access network equipment in future 5G networks or future evolved PLMN networks, etc., and the embodiments disclosed herein are not limited to this.

[0153] In some possible examples, in 5G NR, the functionality of access network equipment is divided into two parts, known as centralized unit (CU) - distributed unit (DU) separation. From a protocol stack perspective, the CU includes the Radio Resource Control (RRC) layer and Packet Data Convergence Protocol (PDCP) layer of the LTE base station, while the DU includes the Radio Link Control (RLC) layer, Media Access Control (MAC) layer, and Physical (PHY) layer of the LTE base station. In a typical 5G base station deployment, the CU and DU are physically connected via fiber optic cable, and logically share a specially defined F1 interface for communication between them. Functionally, the CU is primarily responsible for radio resource control and configuration, inter-cell mobility management, and bearer management. The DU is primarily responsible for scheduling, physical signal generation, and transmission.

[0154] In some possible examples, the access network equipment can be a macro base station, micro base station, pico base station, small station, relay station, balloon station, etc.

[0155] The following provides an example of core network equipment.

[0156] In some possible examples, core network equipment may include network elements that provide various functions. Here, "network element" can also be referred to as an entity, device, apparatus, or module, etc., without specific limitation. Furthermore, for ease of understanding and explanation, the description of "network element" is omitted in some descriptions. For example, a network exposure function (NEF) network element is abbreviated as NEF. In this case, "NEF" should be understood as a NEF network element or NEF entity. The following omits descriptions of similar or identical cases.

[0157] For example, core network equipment may include a mobility management entity (MME), a broadcast multicast service center (BMSC), or corresponding functional entities in the 5G system, such as core network control plane (CP) or user plane (UP) network functions. The core network control plane can also be understood as the core network control plane function (CPF) entity.

[0158] In some possible examples, the network elements included in the core network equipment include at least one of the following: session management function (SMF), user plane function (UPF), policy control function (PCF), NEF, authentication server function (AUSF), unified data management (UDM), network slice selection function (NSSF), network repository function (NRF), application function (AF), unified data repository (UDR), network data analytics function (NWDAF), service control point (SCP), network slice admission control function (NSACF), or network slice specific authentication and authorization function (NSSAAF).

[0159] It should be noted that terminal devices can connect to access network devices wirelessly, and access network devices can connect to core network devices wirelessly or via wired connections. Core network devices can connect to a data network (DN). Access network devices and core network devices can be independent physical devices, or the functions of core network devices and the logical functions of access network devices can be integrated into the same physical device. Alternatively, a single physical device can integrate some of the functions of core network devices and some of the functions of access network devices.

[0160] For example, Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the architecture of another communication system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In Figure 2, the communication system includes UE, (R)AN, UPF, DN, SMF, SCP, NSACF, AMF, AUSF, NSSAAF, AF, UDM, PCF, NRF, NEF, and NSSF. Specifically, the UE connects to the AMF via the N1 interface, the (R)AN connects to the UPF via the N2 interface, the UPF connects to the DN via the N6 interface, the UPF connects to other UPFs via the N9 interface, the UPF connects to the SMF via the N4 interface, the SMF connects to other network elements via the Nsmf interface, the AMF connects to other network elements via the Naamf interface, the AUSF connects to other network elements via the Nausf interface, the NSSAAF connects to other network elements via the Nnssaaf interface, the SCP connects to other network elements via the Nscp interface, the NSACF connects to other network elements via the Nnsacf interface, the AF connects to other network elements via the Naf interface, the UDM connects to other network elements via the Nudm interface, the PCF connects to other network elements via the Npcf interface, the NRF connects to other network elements via the Nnrf interface, the NEF connects to other network elements via the Nnef interface, and the NSSF connects to other network elements via the Nnssf interface.

[0161] It should be noted that the names of the network elements included in Figure 2 are merely names and do not limit the function of the network element itself. In 5G networks and other future networks, the aforementioned network elements may also have other names, and no specific restrictions are placed on this. For example, in future communication systems, some or all of the aforementioned network elements may use the terminology from 5G, or they may have other names, etc. This is explained uniformly here and will not be elaborated further below.

[0162] Furthermore, the network elements in Figure 2 do not necessarily need to exist simultaneously; the required network elements can be determined based on needs. The connection relationships between the network elements in Figure 2 are also not uniquely defined and can be adjusted according to requirements. It is understood that the aforementioned network elements or functions can be network components in hardware devices, software functions running on dedicated hardware, or virtualization functions instantiated on a platform (e.g., a cloud platform).

[0163] Of course, Figure 2 is only an example of the network architecture of a communication system and does not constitute a limitation on the network architecture of the communication system of the present disclosure embodiments.

[0164] The communication systems of some embodiments of this disclosure have been described above. The technical solutions of some embodiments of this disclosure will be specifically described below.

[0165] In communication systems, SSB can be used to help terminal devices perform time and frequency synchronization.

[0166] It is worth noting that, in some embodiments of this disclosure, the SSB mentioned can be either a conventional SSB (such as one used for terminal devices in idle, inactive, or connected states) or a synchronization signal specifically used for terminal devices in connected and / or inactive states, such as an enhanced tracking reference signal (TRS). Furthermore, in some embodiments of this disclosure, the connected state mentioned can be either a conventional connected state (such as an RRC connected state) or a state similar to a connected state. Similarly, in some embodiments of this disclosure, the inactive state mentioned can be either a conventional inactive state (such as an RRC inactive state) or a state similar to an inactive state.

[0167] It should be noted that time-frequency synchronization refers to the synchronization of network devices and terminal devices in a communication system in terms of timing and frequency to ensure accurate data transmission and reception. When timing synchronization is poor (e.g., exceeding the cyclic prefix length), inter-symbol interference (ISI) generally occurs. When frequency synchronization is poor (e.g., exceeding most of the subcarrier spacing), inter-subcarrier interference (ICI) generally occurs.

[0168] Time and frequency synchronization can be divided into uplink time synchronization and downlink time and frequency synchronization. Generally speaking, uplink time synchronization refers to the network device learning the timing of the terminal device and thus instructing the terminal device to advance its timing (TA). The terminal device adjusts its TA to ensure that the signal / channel it sends does not precede the network device's processing (there can be a certain delay). Downlink time and frequency synchronization refers to the terminal device needing to synchronize its frequency and timing with the network device so that it can correctly receive the signal / channel sent by the network. For example, the terminal device can track the SSB to achieve downlink time and frequency synchronization.

[0169] In terms of network energy saving, network devices in some embodiments of this disclosure can adopt energy-saving strategies, such as reducing the frequency of SSB transmission to reduce power consumption and resource consumption. Regarding the SSBs in some embodiments of this disclosure, these embodiments can classify SSBs into first-type SSBs and second-type SSBs.

[0170] It should be noted that Type I SSBs and Type II SSBs are two SSBs with different periods. Type I SSBs refer to SSBs with a first period, and Type II SSBs refer to SSBs with a second period, where the first period is longer than the second period. In other words, the period of a Type I SSB is longer than the period of a Type II SSB. For example, if the first period is long and the second period is short, then Type I SSBs are long-period SSBs, and Type II SSBs are short-period SSBs.

[0171] It is evident that the transmission frequency of Type I SSBs is lower than that of Type II SSBs. In other words, within the same timeframe, Type I SSBs are transmitted fewer times than Type II SSBs. Therefore, compared to Type II SSBs, network devices can transmit fewer Type I SSBs, thus saving power and achieving network energy efficiency.

[0172] As shown in the above, Figure 3 is a flowchart illustrating a communication method according to an embodiment of this disclosure, including the following steps:

[0173] S310. The network device sends a Type I SSB or sends an SSB according to the first cycle.

[0174] Correspondingly, the terminal device receives the first type of SSB or receives SSB according to the first cycle.

[0175] As can be seen, since the period of the first type of SSB is relatively large, or the period of the first cycle is relatively large, some embodiments of this disclosure can reduce the frequency at which network devices send SSBs, thereby reducing the number of SSBs sent and thus saving power consumption of network devices, achieving the goal of network energy saving. Correspondingly, some embodiments of this disclosure can reduce the frequency at which terminal devices receive SSBs, thereby reducing the number of SSBs received and thus saving power consumption of terminal devices, achieving the goal of network energy saving.

[0176] In addition, reducing the frequency at which network devices send SSBs can reduce the power consumption of network devices to some extent, but it may also cause terminal devices to be unable to obtain enough SSBs in time, resulting in some adverse effects.

[0177] For example, when network devices reduce the frequency of SSB transmission, terminal devices may face longer waiting times to obtain SSBs. This may lead to untimely time and frequency synchronization of terminal devices in certain situations (such as rapid movement or environments with rapidly changing signals), resulting in timing drift or timing errors, which affect the accuracy and rate of received data.

[0178] Therefore, in cases where terminal devices are unable to acquire sufficient SSBs in a timely manner, some embodiments of this disclosure also require consideration of adjustments to SSB transmission.

[0179] The following disclosure provides a detailed description of the adjustments to SSB transmission using different embodiments.

[0180]

Example 1

[0181] When a terminal device receives Type I SSBs or receives SSBs according to the first cycle, if the terminal device cannot acquire enough SSBs in time, this may lead to timing offset, resulting in downlink time-frequency synchronization failure. Downlink time-frequency synchronization failure refers to downlink time-frequency synchronization performance being worse than expected or required.

[0182] Based on this, in "Example 1", after downlink time-frequency synchronization loss occurs, the terminal device can inform the network device of relevant information regarding the downlink time-frequency synchronization loss. For example, after a radio link failure (RLF) occurs, the terminal device informs the network device of the downlink time-frequency synchronization loss, or the terminal device informs the network device of its expected SSB period, or the terminal device informs the network device of the time / frequency drift rate, etc. The time / frequency drift rate can refer to the percentage of time-frequency deviation per second. In this way, the network device can decide whether to adjust the SSB transmission frequency or the SSB period based on this information.

[0183] For example, as shown in Figure 4, which is a flowchart illustrating another communication method according to an embodiment of this disclosure, the method includes the following steps:

[0184] S410 is the same as S310, so it will not be described again.

[0185] S420. The terminal device sends a request message indicating at least one of the following: a request to reduce the SSB period, the SSB period desired by the terminal device, or the downlink time-frequency out-of-sync level.

[0186] Correspondingly, the network device receives the request information.

[0187] As can be seen, the terminal device informs the network device of downlink time-frequency synchronization issues through request information. Specifically, in response to a request indicating a request to reduce the SSB period, the terminal device requests the network device to reduce the SSB period. In response to a request indicating a desired SSB period, the terminal device informs the network device of its desired SSB period. In response to a request indicating the downlink time-frequency synchronization level, the terminal device informs the network device of the downlink time-frequency synchronization level. In this way, the network device can decide whether to adjust the SSB transmission frequency based on the request information.

[0188] It should be noted that requesting a reduction in the SSB cycle can be understood as requesting the network device to send more SSBs.

[0189] The desired SSB cycle for terminal devices needs to be smaller than that of Type 1 SSB or Type 1 cycle.

[0190] Downlink time-frequency out-of-sync levels can represent the range of time-frequency drift rates. Different downlink time-frequency out-of-sync levels can represent different ranges of time-frequency drift rates. In this way, network devices can determine the range of time-frequency drift rates by using downlink time-frequency out-of-sync levels. At the same time, using downlink time-frequency out-of-sync levels can reduce signaling overhead.

[0191] When network devices decide whether to adjust the SSB based on request information, they may not necessarily adjust it due to energy conservation considerations. For example, they might only send an aperiodic tracking reference signal (TRS) to the terminal devices to temporarily resolve downlink timing synchronization issues. However, when the network device receives a large number of request messages from terminal devices, it may adjust the SSB for those specific terminal devices.

[0192] In some possible examples, the request information is carried by message 3 (Msg3).

[0193] It should be noted that when a terminal device cannot acquire enough SSBs in a timely manner, this may lead to timing skew, downlink time-frequency asynchrony, and ultimately radio link failure (RLF). After an RLF occurs, terminal devices in some embodiments of this disclosure need to re-establish a connection with the network device through the RRC connection re-estabilishment process.

[0194] During RRC connection re-establishment, the terminal device initiates a random access request, such as by sending a random access preamble on the physical random access channel (PRACH) resource. Then, after receiving a random access response (RAR) from the network device, the terminal device sends message 3. Message 3 carries request information. In this way, the terminal device informs the network device of downlink time-frequency synchronization issues via message 3.

[0195] In some possible examples, the request information is carried by user assistance information (UAI). In this way, the terminal device uses UAI to inform the network device about downlink time-frequency synchronization issues.

[0196] In some possible examples, when a network device decides that the SSB period needs to be reduced based on a request, the network device can inform the end device of the relevant information regarding the SSB adjustment. For example, the network device might tell the end device to accept a Type 2 SSB or to receive the SSB according to the Type 2 period. In this way, the end device can learn about the adjusted SSB period based on this information and receive the SSB according to the adjusted SSB period.

[0197] For example, as shown in Figure 5, which is a flowchart of another communication method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the method includes the following steps:

[0198] S510 is the same as S310, so it will not be described again.

[0199] S520 is the same as S420, so it will not be described again.

[0200] S530. The network device sends an instruction message indicating a Type 2 SSB, or an instruction message indicating that an SSB should be received according to the second cycle.

[0201] Correspondingly, the terminal device receives the instruction information.

[0202] As can be seen, the network device informs the terminal device of SSB adjustment information through indication information. Specifically, in response to the indication information indicating a second type of SSB, the network device switches from sending a first type of SSB to sending a second type of SSB, and the terminal device switches from receiving a first type of SSB to receiving a second type of SSB. Since the period of the second type of SSB is shorter than that of the first type of SSB, some embodiments of this disclosure can increase the frequency at which the network device sends SSBs, achieving multiple SSB transmissions and ensuring that the terminal device obtains enough SSBs for time-frequency resynchronization.

[0203] In response to an indication message instructing the network device to receive SSBs according to a second cycle, the network device switches from sending SSBs according to a first cycle to sending SSBs according to a second cycle, and the terminal device switches from receiving SSBs according to a first cycle to receiving SSBs according to a second cycle. Since the second cycle is shorter than the first cycle, some embodiments of this disclosure can increase the frequency at which the network device sends SSBs, thereby enabling the transmission of more SSBs and ensuring that the terminal device acquires enough SSBs to resynchronize its time and frequency.

[0204] In some possible examples, after S530, in response to the network device sending an indication message in the m-th millisecond, time slot, or symbol, the network device determines that the second type SSB is valid after the (m+d)-th millisecond, time slot, or symbol, or the network device determines that the period of the SSB is adjusted from the first period to the second period after the (m+d)-th millisecond, time slot, or symbol, where m and d are integers greater than or equal to 0.

[0205] It should be noted that, due to the potential time difference between the network device sending the indication information and the terminal device parsing the indication information, the network device may require a delay of d milliseconds, time slots, or symbols to determine whether the Type II SSB is valid or whether the SSB period has been adjusted from the first period to the second period. When d is 0, this means that the network device determines whether the Type II SSB is valid or whether the SSB period has been adjusted from the first period to the second period immediately after the m-th millisecond, time slot, or symbol.

[0206] When a Type II SSB is active, it indicates that the network device has switched from sending Type I SSBs to sending Type II SSBs. Since the period of a Type II SSB is shorter than that of a Type I SSB, some embodiments of this disclosure can increase the frequency at which the network device sends SSBs, enabling multiple SSB transmissions and ensuring that the terminal device acquires enough SSBs to resynchronize its time and frequency.

[0207] When the SSB period is adjusted from the first period to the second period, it means that the network device has changed from sending SSBs according to the first period to sending SSBs according to the second period. Since the second period is shorter than the first period, some embodiments of this disclosure can increase the frequency at which the network device sends SSBs, thereby enabling the transmission of more SSBs and ensuring that the terminal device obtains enough SSBs so that the terminal device can resynchronize its time and frequency.

[0208] In some possible examples, after S530, in response to the terminal device receiving the indication information in the m-th millisecond, time slot, or symbol, the terminal device determines that the second type SSB is valid after the (m+d)-th millisecond, time slot, or symbol, or the terminal device determines that the period of the SSB is adjusted from the first period to the second period after the (m+d)-th millisecond, time slot, or symbol, where m and d are integers greater than or equal to 0.

[0209] It should be noted that, due to the potential time difference between the network device sending the indication information and the terminal device parsing the indication information, the terminal device may require a delay of d milliseconds, time slots, or symbols to determine whether the Type II SSB is valid or whether the SSB period has been adjusted from the first period to the second period. When d is 0, this means that the network device determines whether the Type II SSB is valid or whether the SSB period has been adjusted from the first period to the second period immediately after the m-th millisecond, time slot, or symbol.

[0210] When the second type of SSB is active, it indicates that the terminal device has switched from receiving the first type of SSB to receiving the second type of SSB. Since the period of the second type of SSB is shorter than that of the first type of SSB, some embodiments of this disclosure can increase the frequency at which the network device sends SSBs, thereby enabling multiple SSBs to be sent and ensuring that the terminal device obtains enough SSBs so that the terminal device can resynchronize its time and frequency.

[0211] When the SSB period is adjusted from the first period to the second period, it indicates that the terminal device has switched from receiving SSBs according to the first period to receiving SSBs according to the second period. Since the second period is shorter than the first period, some embodiments of this disclosure can increase the frequency at which the network device sends SSBs, thereby enabling multiple SSB transmissions and ensuring that the terminal device obtains enough SSBs to resynchronize its time and frequency.

[0212] In some possible examples, after S530, T milliseconds, time slots, or symbols after the transmission time of the indication information, the network device determines that the second type SSB is valid, or determines that the period of the SSB is adjusted from the first period to the second period, where T is an integer greater than or equal to 0.

[0213] It should be noted that, due to the potential time difference between the network device sending the indication information and the terminal device parsing the indication information, the network device may require a delay of T milliseconds, time slots, or symbols to determine whether the Type II SSB is valid or whether the SSB period has been adjusted from the first period to the second period. When T is 0, this indicates that the network device determines whether the Type II SSB is valid or whether the SSB period has been adjusted from the first period to the second period immediately after the indication information is sent.

[0214] In some possible examples, after S530, after T milliseconds, time slots, or symbols following the reception time of the indication information, the terminal device determines that the second type SSB is valid, or determines that the period of the SSB is adjusted from the first period to the second period, where T is an integer greater than or equal to 0.

[0215] It should be noted that, due to the potential time difference between the network device sending the indication information and the terminal device parsing the indication information, the terminal device may require a delay of T milliseconds, time slots, or symbols to determine whether the Type II SSB is valid or whether the SSB period has been adjusted from the first period to the second period. When T is 0, this indicates that the terminal device determines whether the Type II SSB is valid or whether the SSB period has been adjusted from the first period to the second period immediately after receiving the indication information.

[0216] In some possible examples, after S530, X periods after the transmission time of the indication information, the network device determines that the second type SSB is valid, or determines that the SSB period is adjusted from the first period to the second period, where X is an integer greater than or equal to 0.

[0217] It should be noted that, due to the potential time difference between the network device sending the indication information and the terminal device parsing the indication information, the network device may require a delay of X periods of Type 1 SSB to determine whether the Type 2 SSB is valid or whether the SSB period is adjusted from the first period to the second period. When X is 0, this means that the network device determines whether the Type 2 SSB is valid or adjusts the SSB period from the first period to the second period immediately after the indication information is sent.

[0218] In some possible examples, after S530, after X cycles of the first type SSB following the reception time of the indication information, the terminal device determines that the second type SSB is valid, or determines that the SSB cycle is adjusted from the first cycle to the second cycle, where X is an integer greater than or equal to 0.

[0219] It should be noted that, due to the potential time difference between the network device sending the indication information and the terminal device parsing the indication information, the terminal device may need a delay of X periods of Type 1 SSB to determine whether the Type 2 SSB is valid or whether the SSB period has been adjusted from the first period to the second period. When X is 0, this means that the terminal device determines whether the Type 2 SSB is valid or whether the SSB period has been adjusted from the first period to the second period immediately after receiving the indication information.

[0220] In some possible examples, the instruction information is carried by message 4.

[0221] It should be noted that when the request information in S520 is carried by message 3, since the network device usually needs to send message 4 to the terminal device after the terminal device sends message 3, some embodiments of this disclosure can carry indication information through message 4. In this way, the network device receives the relevant information regarding the SSB adjustment from the terminal device through message 4. That is, the terminal device receives the network device's adjustment of the SSB in message 4. Subsequently, the terminal device can receive the second type of SSB or receive SSBs according to the second cycle.

[0222] In some possible examples, the instruction information is carried by the DCI.

[0223] It should be noted that DCI can be considered as Layer 1 signaling. Layer 1 signaling requires less processing time than Layer 3 signaling (such as message 4), meaning it is faster than Layer 2 signaling. Thus, some embodiments of this disclosure can transmit indication information more quickly. In other words, the terminal device receives adjustments to the SSB from the network device within the DCI. Subsequently, the terminal device can receive a second type of SSB or receive SSBs according to a second cycle.

[0224] In some possible examples, the instruction information is carried by the MAC CE.

[0225] It should be noted that MAC CE can be considered as Layer 2 signaling. Layer 2 signaling requires less processing time than Layer 3 signaling, meaning it is faster and more reliable than Layer 1 signaling. Thus, some embodiments of this disclosure can transmit indication information faster and more reliably. In other words, the terminal device receives adjustments to the SSB from the network device in the MAC CE. Subsequently, the terminal device can receive a second type of SSB or receive SSBs according to a second cycle.

[0226]

Example 2

[0227] When a terminal device receives a Type I SSB or receives an SSB according to the first cycle, if the terminal device cannot acquire enough SSBs in time, this may cause a timing offset, resulting in downlink timing and frequency out of sync.

[0228] Therefore, in "Example 2", the network device may have already sensed the downlink time-frequency loss of synchronization after it occurs. For example, the network device may have already sensed the downlink time-frequency loss of synchronization after it occurs and before the RLF occurs.

[0229] At this point, the network device will proactively decide whether to adjust the SSB transmission frequency or the SSB period. When the network device decides to reduce the SSB period, it can inform the terminal device of the relevant SSB adjustment information. For example, the network device can tell the terminal device to receive SSBs according to the Type 2 SSB or the Type 2 period. In this way, the terminal device can learn about the adjusted SSB period based on this information and receive SSBs according to the adjusted SSB period.

[0230] For example, as shown in Figure 6, which is a flowchart illustrating another communication method according to an embodiment of this disclosure, the method includes the following steps:

[0231] S610 is the same as S310, so it will not be described again.

[0232] S620. The network device sends an indication message indicating a Type 2 SSB, or an indication message indicating that an SSB should be received according to the second cycle.

[0233] Correspondingly, the terminal device receives the instruction information.

[0234] As can be seen, the network device informs the terminal device of SSB adjustment information through indication information. Specifically, in response to the indication information indicating a second type of SSB, the network device switches from sending a first type of SSB to sending a second type of SSB, and the terminal device switches from receiving a first type of SSB to receiving a second type of SSB. Since the period of the second type of SSB is shorter than that of the first type of SSB, some embodiments of this disclosure can increase the frequency at which the network device sends SSBs, achieving multiple SSB transmissions and ensuring that the terminal device obtains enough SSBs for time-frequency resynchronization.

[0235] In response to an indication message instructing the network device to receive SSBs according to a second cycle, the network device switches from sending SSBs according to a first cycle to sending SSBs according to a second cycle, and the terminal device switches from receiving SSBs according to a first cycle to receiving SSBs according to a second cycle. Since the second cycle is shorter than the first cycle, some embodiments of this disclosure can increase the frequency at which the network device sends SSBs, thereby enabling the transmission of more SSBs and ensuring that the terminal device acquires enough SSBs to resynchronize its time and frequency.

[0236] In some possible examples, after S620, in response to the network device sending an indication message in the m-th millisecond, time slot, or symbol, the network device determines that the second type SSB is valid after the (m+d)-th millisecond, time slot, or symbol, or the network device determines that the period of the SSB is adjusted from the first period to the second period after the (m+d)-th millisecond, time slot, or symbol, where m and d are integers greater than or equal to 0.

[0237] It should be noted that, due to the potential time difference between the network device sending the indication information and the terminal device parsing the indication information, the network device may require a delay of d milliseconds, time slots, or symbols to determine whether the Type II SSB is valid or whether the SSB period has been adjusted from the first period to the second period. When d is 0, this means that the network device determines whether the Type II SSB is valid or whether the SSB period has been adjusted from the first period to the second period immediately after the m-th millisecond, time slot, or symbol.

[0238] When a Type II SSB is active, it indicates that the network device has switched from sending Type I SSBs to sending Type II SSBs. Since the period of a Type II SSB is shorter than that of a Type I SSB, some embodiments of this disclosure can increase the frequency at which the network device sends SSBs, enabling multiple SSB transmissions and ensuring that the terminal device acquires enough SSBs to resynchronize its time and frequency.

[0239] When the SSB period is adjusted from the first period to the second period, it means that the network device has changed from sending SSBs according to the first period to sending SSBs according to the second period. Since the second period is shorter than the first period, some embodiments of this disclosure can increase the frequency at which the network device sends SSBs, thereby enabling the transmission of more SSBs and ensuring that the terminal device obtains enough SSBs so that the terminal device can resynchronize its time and frequency.

[0240] In some possible examples, after S620, in response to the terminal device receiving the indication information in the m-th millisecond, time slot, or symbol, the terminal device determines that the second type SSB is valid after the (m+d)-th millisecond, time slot, or symbol, or the terminal device determines that the period of the SSB is adjusted from the first period to the second period after the (m+d)-th millisecond, time slot, or symbol, where m and d are integers greater than or equal to 0.

[0241] It should be noted that, due to the potential time difference between the network device sending the indication information and the terminal device parsing the indication information, the terminal device may require a delay of d milliseconds, time slots, or symbols to determine whether the Type II SSB is valid or whether the SSB period has been adjusted from the first period to the second period. When d is 0, this means that the network device determines whether the Type II SSB is valid or whether the SSB period has been adjusted from the first period to the second period immediately after the m-th millisecond, time slot, or symbol.

[0242] When the second type of SSB is active, it indicates that the terminal device has switched from receiving the first type of SSB to receiving the second type of SSB. Since the period of the second type of SSB is shorter than that of the first type of SSB, some embodiments of this disclosure can increase the frequency at which the network device sends SSBs, thereby enabling multiple SSBs to be sent and ensuring that the terminal device obtains enough SSBs so that the terminal device can resynchronize its time and frequency.

[0243] When the SSB period is adjusted from the first period to the second period, it indicates that the terminal device has switched from receiving SSBs according to the first period to receiving SSBs according to the second period. Since the second period is shorter than the first period, some embodiments of this disclosure can increase the frequency at which the network device sends SSBs, thereby enabling multiple SSB transmissions and ensuring that the terminal device obtains enough SSBs to resynchronize its time and frequency.

[0244] In some possible examples, after S620, T milliseconds, time slots, or symbols after the transmission time of the indication information, the network device determines that the second type SSB is valid, or determines that the period of the SSB is adjusted from the first period to the second period, where T is an integer greater than or equal to 0.

[0245] It should be noted that, due to the potential time difference between the network device sending the indication information and the terminal device parsing the indication information, the network device may require a delay of T milliseconds, time slots, or symbols to determine whether the Type II SSB is valid or whether the SSB period has been adjusted from the first period to the second period. When T is 0, this indicates that the network device determines whether the Type II SSB is valid or whether the SSB period has been adjusted from the first period to the second period immediately after the indication information is sent.

[0246] In some possible examples, after S620, after T milliseconds, time slots, or symbols following the reception time of the indication information, the terminal device determines that the second type SSB is valid, or determines that the period of the SSB is adjusted from the first period to the second period, where T is an integer greater than or equal to 0.

[0247] It should be noted that, due to the potential time difference between the network device sending the indication information and the terminal device parsing the indication information, the terminal device may require a delay of T milliseconds, time slots, or symbols to determine whether the Type II SSB is valid or whether the SSB period has been adjusted from the first period to the second period. When T is 0, this indicates that the terminal device determines whether the Type II SSB is valid or whether the SSB period has been adjusted from the first period to the second period immediately after receiving the indication information.

[0248] In some possible examples, after S620, X periods after the transmission time of the indication information, the network device determines that the second type SSB is valid, or determines that the SSB period is adjusted from the first period to the second period, where X is an integer greater than or equal to 0.

[0249] It should be noted that, due to the potential time difference between the network device sending the indication information and the terminal device parsing the indication information, the network device may require a delay of X periods of Type 1 SSB to determine whether the Type 2 SSB is valid or whether the SSB period is adjusted from the first period to the second period. When X is 0, this means that the network device determines whether the Type 2 SSB is valid or adjusts the SSB period from the first period to the second period immediately after the indication information is sent.

[0250] In some possible examples, after S620, after X cycles of the first type SSB following the reception time of the indication information, the terminal device determines that the second type SSB is valid, or determines that the SSB cycle is adjusted from the first cycle to the second cycle, where X is an integer greater than or equal to 0.

[0251] It should be noted that, due to the potential time difference between the network device sending the indication information and the terminal device parsing the indication information, the terminal device may need a delay of X periods of Type 1 SSB to determine whether the Type 2 SSB is valid or whether the SSB period has been adjusted from the first period to the second period. When X is 0, this means that the terminal device determines whether the Type 2 SSB is valid or whether the SSB period has been adjusted from the first period to the second period immediately after receiving the indication information.

[0252] In some possible examples, the instruction information is carried by the PDCCH order.

[0253] It should be noted that after downlink time-frequency synchronization loss occurs, the network device may have already sensed it. At this time, the network device will send a PDCCH order to the terminal device. The PDCCH order can request the terminal device to perform specific operations to restore or improve its time-frequency synchronization. The PDCCH order carries indication information.

[0254] For example, a PDCCH order can require a terminal device to initiate a random access request or perform other reconnection attempts. Therefore, the terminal device can send a random access preamble on the PRACH resource so that the network device can recalculate the TA for time-frequency synchronization. The random access process typically includes steps such as the terminal device sending the random access preamble and the network device sending a RAR. The RAR contains information such as the TA used by the terminal device for time-frequency synchronization.

[0255] In this way, the network device informs the terminal device of the SSB adjustment information through the PDCCH order. That is, the terminal device receives the SSB adjustment from the network device in the PDCCH order. Subsequently, the terminal device can receive Type 2 SSBs or receive SSBs according to the second cycle (short cycle).

[0256] The following describes an example of a communication device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0257] The foregoing mainly described the solutions of the embodiments of this disclosure from a methodological perspective. The following section provides illustrative examples of the functional units of a communication device according to some embodiments of this disclosure. It is understood that, in order to implement the above functions, the terminal device includes hardware structures and / or software modules corresponding to the execution of each function. Those skilled in the art should readily recognize that, in conjunction with the units and algorithm steps of the examples described in the embodiments disclosed herein, some embodiments of this disclosure can be implemented in hardware or a combination of hardware and computer software. Whether a function is executed in hardware or by computer software driving hardware depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of some embodiments of this disclosure.

[0258] This disclosure embodiment can divide the terminal device into functional units according to the above method example. For example, each function can be divided into a separate functional unit, or two or more functions can be integrated into one processing unit. The integrated unit can be implemented in hardware or as a software program module. It should be noted that the unit division in this disclosure embodiment is illustrative and only represents a logical functional division, while other division methods may be used in actual implementation.

[0259] In the case of using integrated units, FIG7 is a functional unit composition block diagram of a communication device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The communication device 700 includes a receiving unit 701.

[0260] Optionally, the receiving unit 701 can be a module unit for receiving and processing signals, information, etc., and there are no specific limitations on this.

[0261] Optionally, the communication device 700 may also include a transmitting unit. The transmitting unit can be a module unit used for transmitting signals, information, etc., and there are no specific limitations on this.

[0262] Optionally, the communication device 700 may further include a storage unit for storing computer program code or instructions executed by the communication device 700. The storage unit may be a memory.

[0263] Optionally, the communication device 700 may be a chip or a chip module.

[0264] Optionally, the receiving unit 701 can be integrated into the communication unit. The communication unit can be a communication interface, transceiver, transceiver circuit, etc.

[0265] Optionally, the receiving unit 701 can be integrated into the processing unit.

[0266] It should be noted that the processing unit can be a processor or controller, such as a baseband processor, baseband chip, central processing unit (CPU), general-purpose processor, digital signal processor (DSP), application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or other programmable logic device, transistor logic device, hardware component, or any combination thereof. It can implement or execute various exemplary logic blocks, modules, and circuits described in conjunction with some embodiments of this disclosure. The processing unit can also be a combination that implements computing functions, such as including one or more microprocessor combinations, a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, etc.

[0267] Optionally, the communication device 700 is used to perform any of the steps performed by the terminal device / chip / chip module, etc., as described in the above method embodiments.

[0268] In some embodiments, the receiving unit 701 is used to perform any of the steps in the method embodiments described above, and when performing actions such as sending, it may selectively call other units to complete the corresponding operations. A detailed description follows.

[0269] The receiving unit 701 is used to receive the first type of SSB or to receive SSB according to the first cycle.

[0270] As can be seen, since the period of the first type of SSB is relatively large or the period of the first cycle is relatively large, some embodiments of this disclosure can reduce the frequency of SSB reception by the terminal device, thereby reducing the number of SSBs received, which helps to save the power consumption of the terminal device and achieve the purpose of network energy saving.

[0271] It should be noted that the specific implementation of each operation in the embodiment shown in Figure 7 can be found in the description of the method embodiment shown above, and will not be repeated here.

[0272] In one possible example of the third aspect, the communication device 700 also includes a transmitting unit;

[0273] The sending unit is used to send request information, which indicates at least one of the following: a request to reduce the SSB period, the SSB period desired by the terminal device, or the downlink time-frequency out-of-sync level.

[0274] In one possible example, the request information is carried by message 3.

[0275] In one possible example, the receiving unit 701 is also configured to receive indication information, which indicates a second type of SSB, or the indication information indicates that an SSB is received according to a second cycle.

[0276] In one possible example, the communication device 700 also includes a determining unit;

[0277] The determining unit is further configured to, in response to the terminal device receiving the indication information in the m-th millisecond, time slot, or symbol, determine that the second type of SSB is valid after the (m+d)-th millisecond, time slot, or symbol, or determine that the period of the SSB is adjusted from the first period to the second period after the (m+d)-th millisecond, time slot, or symbol, where m and d are integers greater than or equal to 0.

[0278] In one possible example, the communication device 700 also includes a determining unit;

[0279] The determining unit is also used to determine that the second type of SSB is valid after T milliseconds, time slots or symbols following the reception time of the indication information, or to determine that the period of the SSB is adjusted from the first period to the second period, where T is an integer greater than or equal to 0.

[0280] In one possible example, the communication device 700 also includes a determining unit;

[0281] The determining unit is also configured to determine that the second type of SSB is valid, or to determine that the period of the SSB is adjusted from the first period to the second period, X being an integer greater than or equal to 0, after X periods of the first type of SSB following the reception time of the indication information.

[0282] In one possible example, the instruction information is carried by message 4.

[0283] In one possible example, the indication information is carried by the downlink control information (DCI).

[0284] In one possible example, the instruction information is carried by the Media Intervention Control (MAC) element CE.

[0285] In one possible example, the indication information is carried by the DCI in the Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH) order.

[0286] The following describes another communication device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0287] The foregoing mainly described the solutions of the embodiments of this disclosure from a methodological perspective. Below, we will illustrate the functional units of another communication device according to some embodiments of this disclosure. It is understood that, in order to achieve the above functions, the network device includes hardware structures and / or software modules corresponding to the execution of each function. Those skilled in the art should readily recognize that, in conjunction with the units and algorithm steps of the examples described in the embodiments disclosed herein, some embodiments of this disclosure can be implemented in hardware or a combination of hardware and computer software. Whether a function is executed in hardware or by computer software driving hardware depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of some embodiments of this disclosure.

[0288] This disclosure embodiment can divide the network device into functional units according to the above method example. For example, each function can be divided into different functional units, or two or more functions can be integrated into one processing unit. The integrated unit can be implemented in hardware or as a software program module. It should be noted that the unit division in this disclosure embodiment is illustrative and only represents a logical functional division, while other division methods may be used in actual implementation.

[0289] In the case of using integrated units, FIG8 is a functional unit block diagram of another communication device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The communication device 800 includes a transmitting unit 801.

[0290] Optionally, the transmitting unit 801 can be a module unit used for transmitting signals, information, etc., and there are no specific limitations on this.

[0291] Optionally, the communication device 800 may also include a receiving unit. The receiving unit can be a module unit for receiving and processing signals, information, etc., and there are no specific limitations on this.

[0292] Optionally, the communication device 800 may further include a storage unit for storing computer program code or instructions executed by the communication device 800. The storage unit may be a memory.

[0293] Optionally, the communication device 800 may be a chip or a chip module.

[0294] Optionally, the transmitting unit 801 can be integrated into the communication unit. The communication unit can be a communication interface, transceiver, transceiver circuit, etc.

[0295] Optionally, the communication device 800 may also include a processing unit.

[0296] It should be noted that the processing unit can be a processor or controller, such as a baseband processor, baseband chip, central processing unit (CPU), general-purpose processor, digital signal processor (DSP), application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or other programmable logic device, transistor logic device, hardware component, or any combination thereof. It can implement or execute various exemplary logic blocks, modules, and circuits described in conjunction with some embodiments of this disclosure. The processing unit can also be a combination that implements computing functions, such as including one or more microprocessor combinations, a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, etc.

[0297] Optionally, the communication device 800 is used to perform any of the steps performed by the chip / chip module / network device, etc., as described in the above method embodiments.

[0298] In some embodiments, the sending unit 801 is used to perform any of the steps in the method embodiments described above, and when performing actions such as sending, it may selectively call other units to complete the corresponding operations. A detailed description follows.

[0299] The transmitting unit 801 is used to transmit the first type of SSB or to transmit SSB according to the first cycle.

[0300] As can be seen, since the period of the first type of SSB is relatively large or the period of the first cycle is relatively large, some embodiments of this disclosure can reduce the frequency of SSB transmission by network devices, thereby reducing the number of SSBs transmitted and thus saving power consumption of network devices and achieving the goal of network energy saving.

[0301] It should be noted that the specific implementation of each operation in the embodiment shown in Figure 8 can be found in the description of the method embodiment shown above, and will not be repeated here.

[0302] In one possible example, the communication device 800 also includes a receiving unit;

[0303] The receiving unit is used to receive request information, which indicates at least one of the following: a request to reduce the SSB period, the SSB period desired by the terminal device, or the downlink time-frequency out-of-sync level.

[0304] In one possible example, the request information is carried by message 3.

[0305] In one possible example, the transmitting unit 801 is also used to transmit indication information, which indicates a second type of SSB, or indicates that an SSB will be received according to a second cycle.

[0306] In one possible example, the communication device 800 also includes a determining unit:

[0307] The determining unit is configured to, in response to the network device sending indication information in the m-th millisecond, time slot, or symbol, determine that the second type SSB is valid after the (m+d)-th millisecond, time slot, or symbol, or determine that the period of the SSB is adjusted from the first period to the second period after the (m+d)-th millisecond, time slot, or symbol, where m and d are integers greater than or equal to 0.

[0308] In one possible example, the communication device 800 also includes a determining unit:

[0309] The determining unit is used to determine that the second type of SSB is valid, or to determine that the period of the SSB is adjusted from the first period to the second period, T being an integer greater than or equal to 0, after T milliseconds, time slots, or symbols following the transmission time of the indication information.

[0310] In one possible example, the communication device 800 also includes a determining unit:

[0311] The determining unit is used to determine that a second type SSB is valid, or to determine that the period of the SSB is adjusted from the first period to the second period, X being an integer greater than or equal to 0, after X periods of the first type SSB following the transmission time of the indication information.

[0312] In one possible example, the instruction information is carried by message 4.

[0313] In one possible example, the indication information is carried by the downlink control information (DCI).

[0314] In one possible example, the instruction information is carried by the Media Intervention Control (MAC) element CE.

[0315] In one possible example, the indication information is carried by the DCI in the Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH) order.

[0316] The following is an example illustration of the structure of a terminal device according to some embodiments of this disclosure.

[0317] Please refer to Figure 9, which is a schematic diagram of the structure of a terminal device according to an embodiment of this disclosure. The terminal device 900 may include a processor 910, a memory 920, and a communication bus for connecting the processor 910 and the memory 920.

[0318] Optionally, the memory 920 may include, but is not limited to, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), or compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM). The memory 920 is used to store program code executed by the terminal device 900 and data transmitted.

[0319] Optionally, the terminal device 900 also includes a communication interface for receiving and sending data.

[0320] Optionally, the terminal device 900 can be the first terminal device mentioned above.

[0321] Optionally, the processor 910 can be one or more CPUs. If the processor 910 is a CPU, the CPU can be a single-core CPU or a multi-core CPU.

[0322] Optionally, the processor 910 can be a baseband chip, chip, CPU, general-purpose processor, DSP, ASIC, FPGA or other programmable logic device, transistor logic device, hardware component or any combination thereof.

[0323] In some embodiments, the processor 910 in the terminal device 900 is used to execute the computer program or instructions 921 stored in the memory 920 to perform the following operations:

[0324] Receive Type I SSBs or receive SSBs according to the first cycle.

[0325] As can be seen, since the period of the first type of SSB is relatively large or the period of the first cycle is relatively large, some embodiments of this disclosure can reduce the frequency of SSB reception by the terminal device, thereby reducing the number of SSBs received, which helps to save the power consumption of the terminal device and achieve the purpose of network energy saving.

[0326] It should be noted that the specific implementation of each operation can adopt the corresponding description of the method embodiments shown above. The terminal device 900 can be used to execute some embodiments of the present disclosure and the above method embodiments, which will not be described again.

[0327] The following describes the structure of a network device according to some embodiments of this disclosure.

[0328] Please refer to Figure 10, which is a schematic diagram of the structure of a network device according to an embodiment of this disclosure. The network device 1000 includes a processor 1010, a memory 1020, and a communication bus for connecting the processor 1010 and the memory 1020.

[0329] Optionally, the memory 1020 may include, but is not limited to, RAM, ROM, EPROM or CD-ROM, and the memory 1020 is used to store relevant instructions and data.

[0330] Optionally, the network device 1000 also includes a communication interface for receiving and sending data.

[0331] Optionally, the processor 1010 can be one or more CPUs. If the processor 1010 is a CPU, the CPU can be a single-core CPU or a multi-core CPU.

[0332] Optionally, the processor 1010 can be a baseband chip, chip, CPU, general-purpose processor, DSP, ASIC, FPGA or other programmable logic device, transistor logic device, hardware component or any combination thereof.

[0333] Optionally, the processor 1010 in the network device 1000 is used to execute the computer program or instructions 1021 stored in the memory 1020 to perform the following operations:

[0334] Send a Type I SSB or send an SSB according to the first cycle.

[0335] As can be seen, since the period of the first type of SSB is relatively large or the period of the first cycle is relatively large, some embodiments of this disclosure can reduce the frequency of SSB reception by the terminal device, thereby reducing the number of SSBs received, which helps to save the power consumption of the terminal device and achieve the purpose of network energy saving.

[0336] It should be noted that the specific implementation of each operation can adopt the corresponding description of the method embodiments shown above. The network device 1000 can be used to execute some embodiments of this disclosure and the above method embodiments, which will not be described again.

[0337] Other related content of some embodiments of this disclosure will be illustrated below.

[0338] Optionally, the above method embodiments can be applied to terminal devices or applied within terminal devices. That is, the executing entity of the above method embodiments can be a terminal device, a chip, a chip module, or a module, etc., without specific limitations.

[0339] Optionally, the above method embodiments can be applied to network devices or incorporated into network devices. That is, the executing entity of the above method embodiments can be a network device, a chip, a chip module, or a module, etc., without specific limitations.

[0340] This disclosure also provides a chip, including a processor, a memory, and a computer program or instructions stored in the memory, wherein the processor executes the computer program or instructions to implement the steps described in the above method embodiments.

[0341] This disclosure also provides a chip module, including a transceiver component and a chip. The chip includes a processor, a memory, and a computer program or instructions stored in the memory, wherein the processor executes the computer program or instructions to implement the steps described in the above method embodiments.

[0342] This disclosure also provides a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program or instructions that, when executed, implement the steps described in the above method embodiments.

[0343] This disclosure also provides a computer program product, including a computer program or instructions that, when executed, implement the steps described in the above method embodiments.

[0344] This disclosure also provides a communication system, including the terminal device and the network device described above.

[0345] It should be noted that, for the sake of simplicity, the above embodiments are all described as a series of actions. Those skilled in the art should understand that this disclosure is not limited to the described order of actions, as some steps in the embodiments of this disclosure can be performed in other orders or simultaneously. Furthermore, those skilled in the art should also understand that the embodiments described in the specification are preferred embodiments, and the actions, steps, modules, or units involved are not necessarily essential to the embodiments of this disclosure.

[0346] In the above embodiments, the descriptions of each embodiment have different focuses. For parts not described in detail in a certain embodiment, please refer to the relevant descriptions in other embodiments.

[0347] All embodiments disclosed herein can be executed individually or in combination with other embodiments, and are all considered to be within the scope of protection claimed by this disclosure.

[0348] The steps of the methods or algorithms described in this disclosure can be implemented in hardware or by a processor executing software instructions. The software instructions can consist of corresponding software modules, which can be stored in RAM, flash memory, ROM, EPROM, electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), registers, hard disk, portable hard disk, read-only optical disk (CD-ROM), 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. Of course, the storage medium can also be a component of the processor. The processor and storage medium can reside in an ASIC. Additionally, the ASIC can reside in a terminal device or management device. Alternatively, the processor and storage medium can exist as discrete components in the terminal device or management device.

[0349] Those skilled in the art will recognize that, in one or more of the examples above, the functions described in the embodiments of this disclosure can be implemented, in whole or in part, by software, hardware, firmware, or any combination thereof. When implemented in software, it can be implemented, in whole or in part, as a computer program product. This computer program product includes one or more computer instructions. When these computer program instructions are loaded and executed on a computer, all or part of the processes or functions described in the embodiments of this disclosure are generated. The computer can be a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, a computer network, or other programmable device. The computer instructions can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium or transmitted from one computer-readable storage medium to another. For example, the computer instructions can be transmitted from one website, computer, server, or data center to another via wired (e.g., coaxial cable, fiber optic, digital subscriber line (DSL)) or wireless (e.g., infrared, wireless, microwave, etc.) means. The computer-readable storage medium can be any available medium accessible to a computer or a data storage device such as a server or data center that integrates one or more available media. The available media can be magnetic media (e.g., floppy disks, hard disks, magnetic tapes), optical media (e.g., digital video discs (DVDs)), or semiconductor media (e.g., solid-state disks (SSDs)).

[0350] The modules / units included in the various devices and products described in the above embodiments can be software modules / units, hardware modules / units, or a combination of both. For example, for devices and products applied to or integrated into a chip, all modules / units can be implemented using hardware methods such as circuits, or at least some modules / units can be implemented using software programs that run on a processor integrated within the chip, while the remaining (if any) modules / units can be implemented using hardware methods such as circuits. For devices and products applied to or integrated into a chip module, all modules / units can be implemented using hardware methods such as circuits. Different modules / units can be located in the same component (e.g., chip, circuit module, etc.) or different components of the chip module, or at least some modules / units can be implemented using hardware methods such as circuits. The implementation is achieved through a software program that runs on a processor integrated within the chip module. The remaining modules / units (if any) can be implemented using hardware methods such as circuits. For various devices and products applied to or integrated into terminal equipment, each of their modules / units can be implemented using hardware methods such as circuits. Different modules / units can be located in the same component (e.g., chip, circuit module, etc.) or different components within the terminal equipment. Alternatively, at least some modules / units can be implemented using a software program that runs on a processor integrated within the terminal equipment, while the remaining modules / units (if any) can be implemented using hardware methods such as circuits.

[0351] The specific embodiments described above further illustrate the purpose, technical solution, and beneficial effects of the embodiments of this disclosure. It should be understood that the above descriptions are merely specific embodiments of the embodiments of this disclosure and are not intended to limit the protection scope of the embodiments of this disclosure. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made on the basis of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this disclosure should be included within the protection scope of the embodiments of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A communication method, characterized in that, Applied to terminal devices; the method includes: Receive the first type of synchronization signal block (SSB) or receive the SSB according to the first cycle.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The method further includes: Send a request message, the request message indicating at least one of the following: requesting a reduction in the SSB period, the SSB period desired by the terminal device, or the downlink time-frequency out-of-sync level.

3. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that, The request information is carried by message 3.

4. The method according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The method further includes: Receive indication information, the indication information indicating a second type of SSB, or the indication information indicating that an SSB is received according to a second cycle.

5. The method according to claim 4, characterized in that, The method further includes: In response to the terminal device receiving the indication information in the m-th millisecond, time slot, or symbol, it determines that the second type of SSB is valid after the (m+d)-th millisecond, time slot, or symbol, or determines that the period of the SSB is adjusted from the first period to the second period after the (m+d)-th millisecond, time slot, or symbol, where m and d are integers greater than or equal to 0.

6. The method according to claim 4, characterized in that, The method further includes: After T milliseconds, time slots, or symbols following the reception time of the indication information, it is determined that the second type of SSB is valid, or the period of the SSB is adjusted from the first period to the second period, where T is an integer greater than or equal to 0.

7. The method according to claim 4, characterized in that, The method further includes: After X cycles of the first type of SSB following the receipt time of the indication information, the second type of SSB is determined to be valid, or the SSB cycle is determined to be adjusted from the first cycle to the second cycle, where X is an integer greater than or equal to 0.

8. The method according to any one of claims 4-7, characterized in that, The instruction information is carried by message 4.

9. The method according to any one of claims 4-7, characterized in that, The indication information is carried by downlink control information (DCI).

10. The method according to any one of claims 4-7, characterized in that, The instruction information is carried by the Media Intervention Control (MAC) CE element.

11. The method according to any one of claims 4-7, characterized in that, The indication information is carried by the DCI in the Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH) order.

12. A communication method, characterized in that, Applied to network devices; the method includes: Send the first type of synchronization signal block (SSB) or send the SSB according to the first cycle.

13. The method according to claim 12, characterized in that, The method further includes: Receive request information, the request information indicating at least one of the following: request to reduce the SSB period, the SSB period desired by the terminal device, or the downlink time-frequency out-of-sync level.

14. The method according to claim 13, characterized in that, The request information is carried by message 3.

15. The method according to any one of claims 12-14, characterized in that, The method further includes: Send an instruction message indicating a second type of SSB, or the instruction message indicating that an SSB should be received according to a second cycle.

16. The method according to claim 15, characterized in that, The method further includes: In response to the network device sending the indication information in the m-th millisecond, time slot, or symbol, the second type of SSB is determined to be valid after the (m+d)-th millisecond, time slot, or symbol, or the period of the SSB is determined to be adjusted from the first period to the second period after the (m+d)-th millisecond, time slot, or symbol, where m and d are integers greater than or equal to 0.

17. The method according to claim 15, characterized in that, The method further includes: T milliseconds, time slots, or symbols after the transmission time of the indication information, the second type of SSB is determined to be valid, or the period of the SSB is determined to be adjusted from the first period to the second period, where T is an integer greater than or equal to 0.

18. The method according to claim 15, characterized in that, The method further includes: After X cycles of the first type of SSB following the transmission time of the indication information, the second type of SSB is determined to be valid, or the SSB cycle is determined to be adjusted from the first cycle to the second cycle, where X is an integer greater than or equal to 0.

19. The method according to any one of claims 15-18, characterized in that, The instruction information is carried by message 4.

20. The method according to any one of claims 15-18, characterized in that, The indication information is carried by downlink control information (DCI).

21. The method according to any one of claims 15-18, characterized in that, The instruction information is carried by the Media Intervention Control (MAC) CE element.

22. The method according to any one of claims 15-18, characterized in that, The indication information is carried by the DCI in the Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH) order.

23. A terminal device, comprising a processor, a memory, and a computer program or instructions stored in the memory, characterized in that, The processor executes the computer program or instructions to implement the steps of the method according to any one of claims 1, 3-20.

24. A network device, comprising a processor, a memory, and a computer program or instructions stored in the memory, characterized in that, The processor executes the computer program or instructions to implement the steps of the method according to any one of claims 2-20.

25. A chip, comprising a processor and a communication interface, characterized in that, The processor performs the steps of the method according to any one of claims 1-20.

26. A non-volatile computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, It stores a computer program or instructions that, when executed, implement the steps of the method as described in any one of claims 1-20.

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