Reception device, transmission device, and communication system

Abstract

A reception device (3) comprises: a reception unit that receives, from a transmission device (2), first information (11) relating to a sensing signal, and a first signal (12) in which the sensing signal and a communication signal are superimposed; and a control unit that uses the first information (11) to extract the communication signal from the first signal (12).

Description

Receiving device, transmitting device, and communication system

[0001] The present invention relates to a receiving device, a transmitting device, and a communication system.

[0002] ISAC (Integrated Sensing And Communication), proposed as one of the technologies for sixth-generation mobile communications (6G), is a method for introducing wireless sensing functionality into wireless communication systems. Wireless sensing (hereinafter sometimes simply referred to as "sensing") is the process of obtaining physical or chemical information (e.g., quantitative information) of objects (e.g., solids, liquids, or gases) located at a distance using wireless signals.

[0003] ISAC is a method that performs wireless sensing and wireless communication using the same hardware within the same frequency range. By introducing ISAC into wireless communication systems, it becomes possible to achieve low-cost sensing while maintaining high efficiency in the utilization of radio frequency resources.

[0004] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2019-193194, International Publication No. 2020 / 235327, International Publication No. 2024 / 102652

[0005] Because sensing signals and communication signals share the same wireless resources, for example, through time-division multiplexing or frequency-division multiplexing, there is a trade-off between sensing accuracy and communication throughput. For example, increasing the wireless resources used for sensing to improve sensing accuracy may decrease communication throughput because the wireless resources used for communication decrease. Conversely, increasing the wireless resources used for communication to improve communication throughput may decrease sensing accuracy because the wireless resources used for sensing decrease.

[0006] Furthermore, if communication signals for wireless communication and sensing signals for sensing are simply superimposed within the same frequency and time domain, the signals may interfere with each other, potentially leading to a decrease in either or both sensing accuracy and communication throughput.

[0007] In one aspect, the present invention aims to improve the efficiency of wireless resource utilization.

[0008] In one aspect, the receiving device comprises a receiving unit that receives first information relating to a sensing signal and a first signal in which the sensing signal and a communication signal are superimposed from a transmitting device, and a control unit that uses the first information to extract the communication signal from the first signal.

[0009] In one respect, the present invention can improve the efficiency of wireless resource utilization.

[0010] This is a block diagram showing an example configuration of a wireless communication system as an example of an embodiment. This is a diagram illustrating an example of processing in the wireless communication system according to the embodiment. This is a diagram showing an example configuration of a wireless communication system according to the first embodiment. This is a diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of a base station. This is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of a base station. This is a diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of a terminal. This is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of a terminal. This is a diagram showing an example of information regarding the pattern of a sensing signal. This is a diagram showing a first example of information regarding the mapping of a sensing signal. This is a diagram showing a second example of information regarding the mapping of a sensing signal. This is a diagram showing a third example of information regarding the mapping of a sensing signal. This is a diagram showing a first example of a method for notifying the pattern of a sensing signal. This is a diagram showing a second example of a method for notifying the pattern of a sensing signal. This is a diagram showing a third example of a method for notifying the pattern of a sensing signal. This is a sequence diagram illustrating the operation of the wireless communication system according to the first embodiment. This is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the base station according to the first embodiment. This is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the terminal according to the first embodiment. This is a sequence diagram illustrating the operation of the wireless communication system according to the second embodiment. This is a sequence diagram illustrating the operation of the wireless communication system according to the third embodiment. This is a diagram showing an example configuration of a wireless communication system according to the fourth embodiment. This is a sequence diagram illustrating the operation of the wireless communication system according to the fourth embodiment.

[0011] Hereinafter, this embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. The problems and embodiments described herein are examples only and do not limit the scope of the rights of this application. Furthermore, even if the wording differs, if the technical aspects are equivalent, the technology of this application can be applied even with different wording, and the scope of the rights is not limited. Moreover, each embodiment can be combined or modified in various ways as appropriate, as long as the processing content is not contradictory. In addition, each figure is not intended to represent only the components shown in the figure, but may include other functions, etc. Note that in the figures, reference numerals that are the same as those described above indicate the same parts, and their explanation may be omitted.

[0012] Furthermore, the terminology and technical content used in this specification may be appropriately adapted from the terminology and technical content described in the specifications and contributions of communication standards such as 3GPP (Third Generation Partnership Project) (registered trademark).

[0013] The following describes in detail, with reference to the drawings, embodiments of the receiving device, transmitting device, and communication system disclosed in this application. The following embodiments are not intended to limit the disclosed technology.

[0014] [A] Embodiment [A-1] Example of Wireless Communication System Configuration Figure 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a wireless communication system 1 as an example of an embodiment. The wireless communication system 1 is an example of a communication system and may be a system to which a method integrating sensing and communication, including ISAC, is applied.

[0015] As illustrated in Figure 1, the wireless communication system 1 may include a base station 2 and a terminal 3, and may also include a base station 5 different from base station 2. The wireless communication system 1 may also include a target 4 that is the target of wireless sensing (sensing).

[0016] Each of the base station 2, terminal 3, and base station 5 is a device to which a method integrating sensing and communication, including ISAC, is applied, and can be rephrased as wireless communication device, communication device, etc.

[0017] The base station 2 (base station #0) is an example of a base station device or a transmission device. As the transmission device, instead of the base station 2, for example, various devices such as a terminal device or another device (e.g., a relay station device as an example) that communicates with the base station device or the terminal device in a wireless communication system may be used.

[0018] The base station 2 generates sensing signal information 11 and a transmission signal 12. As shown by reference numeral A1, the base station 2 transmits the sensing signal information 11 to the terminal 3 (see the dashed arrow). Also, as shown by reference numeral A2, the base station 2 transmits the transmission signal 12 to the terminal 3 (see the solid arrow).

[0019] The transmission signal 12 is an example of a first signal in which a sensing signal used for sensing and a communication signal used for wireless communication are superimposed. Hereinafter, the symbol of the sensing signal may be denoted as x Ｓ or S, and the symbol of the communication signal may be denoted as x Ｃ or C. Also, the fact that the sensing signal x Ｓ and the communication signal x Ｃ are "superimposed" may be denoted as "S + C" using the addition symbol "+". "Superimposed" means, for example, superimposing the sensing signal x Ｓ and the communication signal x Ｃ , and as an example, superimposing them in a radio resource area. The sensing signal information 11 is an example of first information regarding the sensing signal x Ｓ and is an example of first information for extracting the communication signal x Ｃ from the transmission signal 12 at the terminal 3.

[0020] The terminal 3 is an example of a mobile station, a mobile station device, a terminal device, or a receiving device. As the receiving device, instead of the terminal 3, for example, various devices such as a base station device or another device (e.g., a relay station device as an example) that communicates with the base station device or the terminal device in a wireless communication system may be used.

[0021] The terminal 3 receives the sensing signal information 11 regarding the sensing signal x Ｓ from the base station 2, and the sensing signal x Ｓ and the communication signal x ＣThe transmitted signal 12, which has the two superimposed signals, is received, and the sensing signal information 11 is used to obtain the communication signal x from the transmitted signal 12. Ｃ Extract it.

[0022] Thus, base station 2 receives the sensing signal x Ｓ and communication signal x Ｃ A transmission signal 12 is generated and transmitted by superimposing the two signals. Terminal 3 receives the transmission signal 12. As a result, the communication signal x Ｃ and sensing signal x Ｓ Since this can be transmitted by the transmission signal 12, the efficiency of utilizing wireless resources can be improved.

[0023] Base station 2 receives sensing signal x Ｓ Regarding the information, in terminal 3, the communication signal x is transmitted from the transmission signal 12. Ｃ Sensing signal information 11 for extracting is generated and transmitted. Terminal 3 receives the sensing signal information 11 from base station 2 and uses the sensing signal information 11 to extract the communication signal x from the transmission signal 12. Ｃ This extracts the sensing signal x superimposed on the transmitted signal 12. Ｓ The component of the communication signal x Ｃ This prevents a decrease in communication throughput due to interference. Therefore, it improves the efficiency of using wireless resources and the communication signal x acquired by terminal 3. Ｃ This allows for the suppression of quality degradation while simultaneously improving the efficiency of wireless resource utilization. In other words, it allows for raising the efficiency of wireless resource utilization to a level higher than the trade-off relationship between sensing accuracy and communication throughput.

[0024] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 1, the transmission signal 12 transmitted from the base station 2 is used for sensing. For example, the transmission signal 12 transmitted from the base station 2 reaches the target 4 to be sensed, as indicated by the symbol A3 (see dashed arrow). As indicated by the symbol A4, the reflected signal (echo signal) 13 of the transmission signal 12 at the target 4 is received by the base station 5 (see dashed arrow). The reflected signal 13 may be, for example, the signal that the transmission signal 12 transmitted from the base station 2 is reflected on or inside the target 4.

[0025] Thus, in the wireless communication system 1, sensing is performed when the base station 2 transmits a transmission signal 12 as a sensing signal to the target 4, and the base station 5 receives a reflected signal 13 reflected by the target 4.

[0026] Target 4 may be, for example, terminal 3, or other terminals that are communicating or not communicating, or various objects other than terminals (non-terminals). Also, while target 4 may be a solid, it may be a liquid or a gas, etc.

[0027] Base station 5 (base station #1) is an example of a base station device or receiving device that receives the reflected signal 13. Instead of base station 5, the receiving device may be any other device, such as a terminal device, or other devices that communicate with the base station device or terminal device in a wireless communication system (for example, a relay station device).

[0028] The base station 5 uses the received reflected signal 13 to perform sensing processing on the target 4, such as signal processing, measurement (observation), and analysis of the reflected signal 13. Figure 1 shows an example where the base station 2 that transmits the transmission signal 12 and the base station 5 that receives the reflected signal 13 are separate devices, but the system is not limited to this. For example, base stations 2 and 5 may be the same transceiver (e.g., a base station device), or base stations 2 and 5 may be used in combination with a transceiver.

[0029] [A-2] An example of processing in a wireless communication system Figure 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of processing in a wireless communication system 1 according to an embodiment. The processing shown in Figure 2 may be performed, for example, after the transmission of sensing signal information 11 from the base station 2 to the terminal 3 (see arrow A1 in Figure 1).

[0030] Sensing signal information 11 is, as an example, sensing signal x Ｓ (n) may include at least one type of information among its pattern, number of repetitions, repetition period, start timing, and mapping information.

[0031] Base station 2 receives sensing signal x Ｓ(n) and communication signal x Ｃ The transmission signal 12 is generated and transmitted by superimposing (n). Hereafter, the transmission signal 12 transmitted from base station 2 may be referred to as "transmission signal x(n)". n indicates a certain point in time, for example, the signal sampling timing, and for convenience, in the following explanation, it will be a non-negative integer. Note that in the following explanation of each signal, the "(n)" may be omitted from the sign. Figure 2 shows the sensing signal x Ｓ , communication signal x Ｃ Each of these is shown on the frequency axis.

[0032] Sensing signal x Ｓ For example, this could be a signal obtained by mapping the data signal used for sensing to an OFDM (Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing) symbol.

[0033] Communication signal x Ｃ This may be, for example, a signal obtained by mapping a data signal containing user data or control information to an OFDM symbol, and in this embodiment, it may be a downlink (DL) signal from the base station 2 to the terminal 3. The DL signal may be a signal transmitted using, for example, the radio resource area of ​​a PDSCH (Physical Downlink Shared Channel) or the radio resource area of ​​a PDCCH (Physical Downlink Control Channel).

[0034] For example, base station 2 generates sensing signal x Ｓ and communication signal x Ｃ Precoding processing is performed on each of the following by precoders 2a and 2b. The base station 2 uses a combiner 2c to process the communication signal x after precoding. Ｃ The sensing signal x after precoding processing Ｓ The signals are superimposed. Then, base station 2 transmits the transmission signal x(n) from antenna 2d, for example, an array antenna (see symbol A2).

[0035] Thus, the sensing signal x Ｓ and communication signal x ＣPrecoding processing is performed independently for each of the sensing signals x. Ｓ It is given directivity in the first direction, and the communication signal x Ｃ It can be given directivity in a second direction.

[0036] The second direction may be, for example, the direction of terminal 3 located within the cell of base station 2. The first direction may be, for example, the direction of target 4 located within the cell of base station 2. For example, if target 4 and terminal 3 are the same device, the first direction and the second direction may be the same or substantially the same. If the direction of target 4 is not specified, the first direction may be the same or substantially the same as, for example, the second direction, or it may be different, or it may be a predetermined direction or a direction determined according to predetermined conditions.

[0037] The transmitted signal 12 is the sensing signal x Ｓ and communication signal x Ｃ At least a portion of each of them overlaps with each other in the frequency domain, and the sensing signal x Ｓ and communication signal x Ｃ The signals may be superimposed such that at least a portion of each overlaps with the others in the time domain. This can improve the efficiency of wireless resource utilization.

[0038] In Figure 2, base station 2 transmits a communication signal x within the same frequency domain and time domain. Ｃ sensing signal x Ｓ An example is shown in which the transmission signal x(n) obtained by superimposing the two signals is transmitted to terminal 3. Figure 2 shows the sensing signal S and the communication signal C on the frequency axis as an example of mapping the transmission signal 12 and the reflected signal 13 to wireless resources. Note that the example on the time axis is omitted.

[0039] Terminal 3 is notified in advance of sensing signal information 11 from base station 2. Terminal 3 receives a transmission signal 12 from base station 2 using antenna 3a. Hereinafter, the transmission signal 12 received by terminal 3 may be referred to as "received signal y(n)". Also, the code of the communication signal extracted from received signal y(n) will be y. Ｃ It is sometimes written as (n).

[0040] Terminal 3 uses the previously notified sensing signal information 11 to sense the sensing signal x Ｓ and communication signal x Ｃ The sensed signal x is obtained from the received signal y(n) superimposed with the two signals. Ｓ By canceling the communication signal y Ｃ You may extract the following. For example, terminal 3 takes the received signal y(n) as a positive element and uses the sensing signal information 11 to identify (estimate) the sensing signal x Ｓ By inputting the components of as negative elements into the synthesizer 3b, the communication signal y is generated from the synthesizer 3b. Ｃ You may obtain the communication signal y from the received signal y(n). Ｃ Because it can accurately extract the communication signal y Ｃ This can suppress the degradation of signal quality and communication throughput. Also, sensing signal x Ｓ The sensing signal information 11 includes at least one type of information among the pattern, number of repetitions, repetition period, start timing, and mapping information, thereby enabling the sensing signal x Ｓ It can be identified precisely.

[0041] The transmitted signal 12 is reflected by target 4 as indicated by symbols A3 and A4, similar to the example described with reference to Figure 1. The reflected signal 13 of the transmitted signal 12 at target 4 is received by base station 5 (base station #1), and sensing processing is performed.

[0042] Next, we will describe each embodiment of the processing performed by the wireless communication system 1 in order.

[0043] [B] First Embodiment [B-1] Example of Wireless Communication System Configuration Figure 3 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a wireless communication system 1 according to the first embodiment. The wireless communication system 1 may include base stations 2 and 5 and a terminal 3. Base station 2 forms cell C10. Base station 5 forms cell C11. Terminal 3 is located within cell C10, in other words, within the coverage of base station 2. Target 4 is located within cell C10 and also within cell C11.

[0044] Each of base stations 2 and 5 may be a small radio base station device (including micro radio base station devices, femto radio base station devices, etc.), such as a macro radio base station device or a pico radio base station device, or a radio base station device of various sizes. Furthermore, each of base stations 2 and 5 may be a mobile device with base station functionality, such as an artificial satellite, a stratospheric platform such as a HAPS (High Altitude Platform Station), a vehicle, or an airplane.

[0045] Each of base stations 2 and 5 is connected to a network device (a higher-level device or other base station device) via a wired connection. Alternatively, each of base stations 2 and 5 may be connected to the network device via a wireless connection instead of, or in addition to, a wired connection.

[0046] Base station 2 may separate its wireless communication function with terminal 3 from its digital signal processing and control functions into separate devices. In this case, the device with wireless communication functionality can be called an RRH (Remote Radio Head), and the device with digital signal processing and control functions can be called a BBU (Base Band Unit). The RRH may also be installed as an extension from the BBU. The RRH and BBU may be connected by a wired connection such as an optical fiber, or by a wireless connection. Alternatively, instead of separating base station 2 into RRH and BBU, it may be separated into, for example, a CU (Central Unit), a DU (Distributed Unit), and a RU (Radio Unit). The DU may include, for example, the MAC (Media Access Control) layer function. The DU may also include, for example, the RLC (Radio Link Control) layer function. The RU includes at least an RF (Radio Frequency) radio circuit. The DU and RU may be configured as a single unit. The same applies to base station 5.

[0047] Terminal 3 may be various devices with wireless communication capabilities, such as mobile phones, smartphones, PDAs (Personal Digital Assistants), personal computers, vehicles, airplanes, and drones. Alternatively, Terminal 3 may be wireless terminal devices such as devices (sensor devices, etc.) mounted on robots, AV equipment, home appliances, office equipment, vending machines, other household equipment, or industrial equipment. Terminal 3 communicates with base station 2 via wireless communication.

[0048] [B-2] Example of Base Station Configuration <Example of Functional Configuration> Figure 4 shows an example of the functional configuration of base station 2. Base station 2 may include, for example, a wireless communication unit 21, a control unit 22, a storage unit 23, and a communication unit 24. These functional components are connected so that signals or data can be input and output in one direction or bidirectionally.

[0049] The wireless communication unit 21 comprises a transmitting unit 21a and a receiving unit 21b, and performs wireless communication with the terminal 3 via the antenna 2d (see Figure 2).

[0050] The transmitting unit 21a may transmit a downstream signal (DL signal) to the terminal 3. The downstream signal may include, for example, a measurement signal to be measured by the terminal 3 (e.g., SSB (Synchronization Signal Block), reference signal), a random access procedure signal, an RRC (Radio Resource Control) layer signal, a downstream data signal (e.g., user data), a downstream control signal, etc. The downstream signal may also include a communication signal x. Ｃ This is one example. For example, the transmitting unit 21a transmits a sensing signal x for sensing. Ｓ and communication signal x Ｃ A transmission signal 12, which has the two signals superimposed, is sent to the terminal 3.

[0051] Furthermore, the transmitting unit 21a transmits the sensing signal information 11 to the terminal 3. The transmitting unit 21a may transmit the sensing signal information 11 to all terminals or to terminal 3 individually using, for example, at least one of the following types of signals. The signal may be, for example, an RRC layer signal, a MAC layer signal, a physical layer signal, etc. Examples of such signals include SIB (System Information Block), an RRC layer signal (e.g., RRC Message), a MAC layer signal (e.g., MAC Control Element), and DCI (Downlink Control Information). All terminals may, for example, be terminals located within cell C10 (coverage) of base station 2, including terminal 3.

[0052] The receiving unit 21b may receive the uplink signal (UL (Up Link) signal) transmitted from the terminal 3. The uplink signal may be, for example, a random access procedure signal, an RRC layer signal, an uplink data signal, an uplink control signal, etc.

[0053] Furthermore, if the base station 2 has the function of a base station 5 as a receiving device, the receiving unit 21b may also receive the reflected signal 13 from the target 4.

[0054] The control unit 22 controls the base station 2. For example, the control unit 22 can control the establishment of an RRC connection with the terminal 3, signal processing of signals received by the receiving unit 21b, creation of a transport block (TB) containing data signals for communication, and mapping of the transport block to a wireless resource. The data signals for communication directed to the terminal 3 may be, for example, data signals directed to the terminal 3 received by the communication unit 24 (described later), or they may be read from the storage unit 23.

[0055] Furthermore, the control unit 22 may perform sensing-related control. Sensing-related control includes the generation of sensing signal information 11 and transmission signal 12. For example, sensing-related control may include the creation of a transmission block (TB) containing sensing signal information 11, the creation of a transmission block (TB) containing sensing data signals, and the mapping of transmission blocks to wireless resources. Sensing-related control may also include the generation of a communication signal x related to the data signals for communication. Ｃ Sensing signal x related to the sensing data signal Ｓ Control such as superposition may be included. For example, the control unit 22 may have the functions of precoders 2a and 2b shown in Figure 2 and a combiner 2c. In addition, if the base station 2 has the functions of a base station 5 as a receiving device, sensing processing may be included in the sensing control.

[0056] The memory unit 23 can store, for example, communication signals, sensing signals, and sensing signal information 11. Furthermore, if the base station 2 has the function of a base station 5 as a receiving device, the memory unit 23 can store reflected signals 13, the results of sensing processing by the control unit 22, and the like.

[0057] The communication unit 24 connects to network devices (e.g., host devices, other base station devices) via wired or wireless connections and performs communication. Data signals received by the communication unit 24 for terminal 3 may be stored in the storage unit 23. The wireless communication unit 21 and the communication unit 24 may be collectively referred to as the communication unit.

[0058] <Hardware Configuration Example> Figure 5 shows an example of the hardware configuration of base station 2. Base station 2 includes, for example, a processor 210, memory 220, storage device 230, wireless communication circuit 240, and communication interface 250.

[0059] The processor 210 is a processing unit that performs various control and calculations, and is connected to each hardware component via a bus to enable input and output of various signals and data. For example, if the base station 2 is configured by separating it into a CU, DU, and RU, the processor 210 may be provided in at least one of these CU, DU, and RU.

[0060] The processor 210 may include, for example, at least one of a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), or a digital electronic circuit. Examples of digital electronic circuits include ASICs (Application Specific Integrated Circuits), FPGAs (Field Programmable Gate Arrays), and LSIs (Large Scale Integration).

[0061] Memory 220 is a storage device that stores programs, control information, data signals, etc., and may include, for example, ROM (Read Only Memory) and RAM (Random Access Memory). The RAM may be, for example, DRAM (Dynamic RAM). The ROM of memory 220 may contain programs such as BIOS (Basic Input / Output System). The programs stored in memory 220 may be read by the processor 210 as appropriate and executed. The RAM of memory 220 may be used as primary storage memory or working memory.

[0062] The storage device 230 is a device that stores various types of data in a read-write manner, and may include, for example, at least one of an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), an SSD (Solid State Drive), or an SCM (Storage Class Memory). The software program is provided as a program product and may be written to the memory 220 or the storage device 230.

[0063] The wireless communication circuit 240 communicates wirelessly with other wireless communication devices (for example, terminal 3) via the antenna 2d (see Figure 2).

[0064] The communication interface 250 communicates with other communication devices (for example, a higher-level device not shown) via optical fiber or LAN (Local Area Network) cable.

[0065] The processor 210 may, for example, execute programs such as an OS (Operating System) and application software stored in the memory 220 to realize various functions as a base station 2, including the control unit 22 shown in Figure 4. For example, the processor 210 may generate sensing signal information 11 and, in cooperation with the transmission unit 21a, notify the terminal 3 of the sensing signal information 11. The processor 210 may also generate communication signal x Ｃ sensing signal x Ｓ You may superimpose them.

[0066] The transmitting unit 21a and receiving unit 21b (or wireless communication unit 21) shown in Figure 4 may be implemented, for example, by a wireless communication circuit 240 and an antenna 2d. For example, the wireless communication circuit 240 receives sensing signal information 11 and a communication signal x Ｃ sensing signal x Ｓ The superimposed transmission signal 12 may be transmitted to the terminal 3.

[0067] The storage unit 23 shown in Figure 4 may be realized, for example, by the storage areas of one or both of the memory 220 and the storage device 230. For example, one or both of the memory 220 and the storage device 230 may store the sensing signal information 11.

[0068] The communication unit 24 shown in Figure 4 may be implemented by, for example, a communication interface 250. For example, the communication interface 250 receives a communication signal x from one or both of the processor 210, for example, the CU and the DU. Ｃ and sensing signal x Ｓ It may receive one or both of the two signals. Furthermore, the communication interface 250 receives the sensing signal x Ｓ Alternatively, the reflected signal 13 may be transmitted to one or both of the CU and DU.

[0069] Furthermore, at least some of the functions of the transmitting unit 21a and the receiving unit 21b (or wireless communication unit 21), the storage unit 23, and the communication unit 24 may be realized by the execution of a program by the processor 210.

[0070] The programs for realizing the various functions of base station 2 may be provided as computer program products, for example, in the form of being recorded on a non-temporary computer-readable recording medium such as a magnetic / optical disk or flash memory. Examples of magnetic / optical disks include flexible disks, CDs (Compact Discs), DVDs (Digital Versatile Discs), Blu-ray discs, and HVDs (Holographic Versatile Discs). Examples of flash memory include semiconductor memory such as USB memory and SD cards.

[0071] A base station 2 (e.g., a processor 210), as an example of a computer, may store a program read from the recording medium described above via a reading device (not shown) in, for example, memory 220 or storage device 230. Alternatively, the program (computer program product) may be recorded in a storage device including, for example, the recording medium described above, and provided to a computer via a wired or wireless communication path (network) from the storage device.

[0072] Base station 5 may have the same functional and hardware configuration as base station 2.

[0073] [B-3] Example of Terminal Configuration <Example of Functional Configuration> Figure 6 shows an example of the functional configuration of terminal 3. Terminal 3 may include, for example, a communication unit 31, a control unit 32, and a storage unit 33. These functional components are connected in such a way that signals or data can be input and output in one direction or bidirectionally.

[0074] The communication unit 31 comprises a transmitting unit 31a and a receiving unit 31b, and communicates with the base station 2, for example, via wireless communication through an antenna 3a (see Figure 2).

[0075] The transmitting unit 31a may transmit signals, such as data signals and control signals, via wireless communication. The transmitting unit 31a may transmit uplink signals, such as random access procedure signals, RRC layer signals, uplink data signals, and uplink control signals.

[0076] The receiving unit 31b may receive signals transmitted from the base station 2, such as random access procedure signals, downlink data signals, downlink control signals, and other downlink signals. The receiving unit 31b may also receive sensing signal information 11 and communication signals x Ｃ and sensing signal x Ｓ The receiving unit 31b may receive a transmission signal 12 in which the two signals are superimposed. The signal received by the receiving unit 31b may include, for example, a reference signal used for channel estimation, demodulation, etc. The antenna 3a (see Figure 2) may be common to both the transmitting unit 31a and the receiving unit 31b.

[0077] The control unit 32 controls the terminal 3. For example, the control unit 32 can control the establishment of an RRC connection with the base station 2, signal processing of signals received by the receiving unit 31b, creation of transmission blocks (TBs), and mapping of transmission blocks to wireless resources.

[0078] Furthermore, the control unit 32 may perform sensing-related control. Sensing-related control includes sensing signal x from the received signal (transmitted signal 12) based on sensing signal information 11. Ｓ Cancellation of the signal, and the communication signal y from the received signal (transmitted signal 12) Ｃ Extraction may be included. For example, the control unit 22 may have the function of a synthesizer 3b as shown in Figure 2. Furthermore, the control related to sensing may include the creation of various types of information (control information) described later.

[0079] The storage unit 33 can store, for example, uplink data signals and control information. The storage unit 33 also stores communication signals y from the transmission signal 12, including sensing signal information 11 transmitted from the base station 2. Ｃ It can store various types of information used for extraction.

[0080] <Example Hardware Configuration> Figure 7 shows an example of the hardware configuration of terminal 3. Terminal 3 includes, for example, a processor 310, memory 320, storage device 330, and wireless communication circuit 340.

[0081] The processor 310 is a processing unit that performs various control and calculations, and is connected to each hardware component via a bus to enable input and output of various signals and data. The processor 310 may include, for example, at least one of a CPU, a DSP, or a digital electronic circuit.

[0082] Memory 320 is a storage device that stores programs, control information, data signals, etc., and may include, for example, ROM and RAM. The RAM may be, for example, DRAM. For example, a program such as a BIOS may be written to the ROM of memory 320. The programs stored in memory 320 may be read by the processor 310 as appropriate and executed. The RAM of memory 320 may be used as primary storage memory or working memory.

[0083] The storage device 330 is a device that stores various types of data in a read-write manner, and may include, for example, at least one of an HDD, SSD, or SCM. The software program is provided as a program product and may be written to the memory 320 or the storage device 330.

[0084] The wireless communication circuit 340 communicates wirelessly with other wireless communication devices (for example, base station 2) via the antenna 3a (see Figure 2).

[0085] The processor 310 may, for example, execute programs such as an OS and application software stored in the memory 320 to realize various functions as a terminal 3, including the control unit 32 shown in Figure 6. For example, the processor 310 may, based on the previously notified sensing signal information 11, convert the received signal y(n) to the sensing signal x Ｓ Cancel the communication signal y Ｃ You may extract (DL).

[0086] The transmitting unit 31a and receiving unit 31b (or communication unit 31) shown in Figure 6 may be implemented, for example, by a wireless communication circuit 340 and an antenna 3a. For example, the wireless communication circuit 340 receives a communication signal x Ｃ (DL) receives sensing signal x Ｓ A received signal y(n) superimposed on this signal may be received from base station 2.

[0087] The storage unit 33 shown in Figure 6 may be implemented, for example, by the storage areas of one or both of the memory 320 and the storage device 330. For example, one or both of the memory 320 and the storage device 330 may store the sensing signal information 11 notified from the base station 2.

[0088] Furthermore, at least some of the functions of the transmitting unit 31a, the receiving unit 31b (or the communication unit 31), and the storage unit 33 may be realized by the execution of a program by the processor 310.

[0089] The programs for realizing the various functions of terminal 3 may be provided as computer program products, for example, in the form of being recorded on a non-temporary computer-readable recording medium such as a magnetic / optical disk or flash memory.

[0090] A terminal 3 (e.g., a processor 310), as an example of a computer, may store a program read from the recording medium described above via a reading device (not shown) in, for example, memory 320 or storage device 330. Alternatively, the program (computer program product) may be recorded in a storage device including, for example, the recording medium described above, and provided to the computer via a wired or wireless communication path (network).

[0091] [B-4] Examples of each process Next, an example of each process performed in the wireless communication system 1 will be described.

[0092] [B-4-1] An example of the sensing signal information generation process First, an example of the sensing signal information generation process by the control unit 22 of the base station 2 will be explained. As described above, the control unit 22 generates the sensing signal x ＳSensing signal information 11 including at least one type of information regarding a pattern, number of repetitions, repetition period, start timing, and mapping for may be generated.

[0093] Sensing signal x Ｓ Information regarding the pattern of may be, for example, information regarding the data sequence of sensing signal x Ｓ Information regarding the number of repetitions of sensing signal x Ｓ may be, for example, information regarding the number N (N is an integer of 2 or more) of times the transmission of transmission signal 12 including sensing signal x Ｓ is repeated. Information regarding the mapping of sensing signal x Ｓ may be, for example, information regarding the position on the time axis or frequency axis of the radio resource to which sensing signal x Ｓ is mapped (the transmission location of sensing signal x Ｓ ). Information regarding the pattern and mapping of sensing signal x Ｓ will be described later.

[0094] Sensing signal x Ｓ Information regarding the repetition period of may be, for example, information regarding the time length when the transmission of transmission signal 12 including sensing signal x Ｓ is repeated N times. For example, if the period of one transmission of transmission signal 12 is T [ms (milliseconds)], the repetition period may be represented by T×N. Note that instead of the repetition period T×N of sensing signal x Ｓ , one period T may be notified. Information regarding the (for example, first time) transmission timing of sensing signal x Ｓ may be.

[0095] (Example of information regarding the pattern of sensing signal x Ｓ ) FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of information regarding the pattern of sensing signal x Ｓ . Information regarding the pattern of sensing signal x Ｓ may be, as a first example, the pattern itself, or as a second example, identification information that can identify the pattern, for example, an identification number.

[0096] ・ In the first example diagram 8, a plurality of patterns B1 of the sensing signal x Ｓ are shown. The pattern B1 of the sensing signal x Ｓ is an example of time-series data. For example, it may be data (data sequence) of the sensing signal x Ｓ in each of a plurality (K: K is an integer of 1 or more) of time series. In the example of FIG. 8, x Ｓ (0) to x Ｓ (K - 1) is one pattern B1, x' Ｓ (0) to x' Ｓ (K - 1) is one pattern B1, and x'' Ｓ (0) to x'' Ｓ (K - 1) is one pattern B1.

[0097] ・ The control unit 22 may include, for example, as shown by the dashed-line frame B11, the K time-series data itself regarding any one of the plurality of patterns B1 in the sensing signal information 11. Note that information regarding the plurality of patterns B1 may be stored at least in a storage area of the storage unit 23 of the base station 2 in various forms such as a table, a DB (Database), an array, etc.

[0098] ・ In the second example diagram 8, an identification number B2 associated with each of the plurality of patterns B1 is shown. The control unit 22 may include, for example, as shown by the dash-dotted line frame B21, the identification number B2 associated with any one of the plurality of patterns B1 in the sensing signal information 11. Note that information regarding the association (corresponding relationship) between the identification number B2 and the plurality of patterns B1 may be stored in storage areas of each of the storage unit 23 of the base station 2 and the storage unit 33 of the terminal 3 in various forms such as a table, a DB, an array, etc., and is assumed to be known.

[0099] In either of the first or second example, if pattern B1 is common or unchanging across multiple transmission opportunities of the transmission signal 12, the control unit 22 may notify the terminal 3 from the transmission unit 21a of the sensing signal information 11 before the first transmission of the transmission signal 12. Alternatively, if pattern B1 changes among multiple transmission opportunities of the transmission signal 12, the control unit 22 may notify the terminal 3 from the transmission unit 21a of the sensing signal information 11 before pattern B1 changes, or before each transmission of the transmission signal 12.

[0100] (Sensing signal x Ｓ Example of information regarding mapping: Sensing signal x Ｓ Examples of information regarding the mapping include the following first to third examples. Note that any one of the following first to third examples may be implemented, or at least two may be implemented in an appropriate combination.

[0101] • First example: In the first example, the sensing signal x Ｓ This explains the case where the mapping information relates to the time-axis position of the wireless resource.

[0102] Figure 9 shows the sensing signal x Ｓ This figure shows a first example of information regarding the mapping. In Figure 9, label D1 shows an example of a resource block for radio resources, with the vertical axis being the frequency axis and the horizontal axis being the time axis. On the frequency axis, for example, the entire radio band is divided into multiple (e.g., five) sub-bands, each labeled [SB0] to [SB4] (e.g., sub-band number). On the time axis, for example, it shows the range of one frame, which consists of 10 subframes, and each of the 10 subframes is labeled [SF0] to [SF9] (e.g., subframe number).

[0103] In Figure 9, code D2 shows an example where a single subframe contains multiple slots (e.g., four), and each of the four slots is labeled [SL0] to [SL3] (e.g., slot number). The number of slots in a single subframe is uniquely determined by the subcarrier spacing (SCS). Code D2 shows an example where the SCS is 60 kHz and the number of slots is 4.

[0104] In Figure 9, the symbol D3 shows an example where a single slot contains multiple (e.g., 14) OFDM symbols. The position of the OFDM symbols within a single slot is an example of an OFDM signal number.

[0105] In the first example, the sensing signal x Ｓ Information regarding the mapping includes the sensing signal x Ｓ The transmitted information may include one or more combinations of the subframe number, slot number, and OFDM signal number. In the example shown in Figure 9, the mapping information is on the third and fourth OFDM symbols in the third slot [SL2] within the fourth subframe [SF3] from the beginning, with sensing signal x Ｓ It may be shown that it is mapped.

[0106] • Second example: In the second example, the sensing signal x Ｓ This explains the case where the mapping information relates to the position of the radio resource on the frequency axis.

[0107] Figure 10 shows the sensing signal x Ｓ This figure shows a second example of information regarding the mapping of the resource block. Figure 10 shows the sensing signal x in the resource block. Ｓ and communication signal x Ｃ This shows the relationship between the position (arrangement) on the frequency axis.

[0108] In Figure 10, the symbol E1 represents the sensing signal x Ｓ and communication signal x Ｃ When the frequency widths are different (for example, sensing signal x ＳThe communication signal x is greater than the frequency width Ｃ The example shown is when the frequency bandwidth is large. Code E2 is the sensing signal x Ｓ and communication signal x Ｃ The following examples illustrate cases where the frequency bandwidth and the starting position on the frequency axis are different. The symbol E3 represents the sensing signal x Ｓ and communication signal x Ｃ The following is an example of a case where and partially overlap in the frequency axis. Note that the example shown in code E3 is similar to code E2 in that the sensing signal x Ｓ and communication signal x Ｃ The frequency bandwidths are different, and the starting positions on the frequency axis are also different.

[0109] In the second example, the sensing signal x Ｓ Information regarding the mapping includes the sensing signal x Ｓ The frequency width and the sensing signal x Ｓ This may include information indicating one or both of the starting positions on the frequency axis.

[0110] Note that sensing signal x Ｓ and communication signal x Ｃ The relationship between the frequency width and the starting position on the frequency axis is not limited to the examples shown by symbols E1 to E3. Such relationships include, for example, the sensing signal x Ｓ and communication signal x Ｃ If the frequency widths are the same, and the starting positions on the frequency axis are different, or if the sensing signal x Ｓ The frequency width of the communication signal x Ｃ This may include cases where the frequency range is greater than the specified frequency.

[0111] • Third example: In the third example, the sensing signal x Ｓ This describes the case where the mapping information relates to the position of the wireless resource on the time axis and the power axis.

[0112] Figure 11 shows the sensing signal x Ｓ This figure shows a third example of information regarding the mapping. In Figure 11, code F shows an example of wireless resource mapping with the vertical axis being the power axis and the horizontal axis being the time axis. Code F represents the sensing signal x ＳThis is mapped onto n OFDM symbols, and the communication signal x Ｃ An example is shown where is mapped to m OFDM symbols. Note that n is an integer greater than or equal to 1, m is an integer greater than or equal to 2, and n < m. Also, in code F, the sensing signal x Ｓ The power of the communication signal x Ｃ Here are some examples of power levels smaller than [this].

[0113] In the third example, the sensing signal x Ｓ Information regarding the mapping includes the sensing signal x Ｓ and communication signal x Ｃ Sensing signal x in the time interval where and are superimposed Ｓ and communication signal x Ｃ The information regarding the power ratio with respect to the sensing signal x may be included. Ｓ The mapping information includes, in addition to the power ratio information, the sensing signal x Ｓ and communication signal x Ｃ Information on the duration of each of these may be included. The duration may be, for example, a number n or m representing the number of OFDM symbols.

[0114] [B-4-2] Example of Sensing Signal Information Transmission Process (Example of Sensing Signal Information 11 Notification Method) The notification of sensing signal information 11 from the transmission unit 21a to the terminal 3 may be performed, for example, using signals such as SIB, RRC layer signals, MAC layer signals, and DCI, as described above.

[0115] Furthermore, if the control unit 22 notifies the terminal 3 directly or indirectly from the transmission unit 21a of information indicating which of the multiple settings to implement (implementation information) when multiple pieces of information, or in other words, multiple settings, are notified for one type, the control unit 22 may also notify the terminal 3 directly or indirectly. This information may be notified, for example, as sensing signal information 11, or as other information. Direct or indirect notification may be transmitted using signals such as MAC layer signals (e.g., MAC Control Element), DCI, etc.

[0116] In the following, the information that is indirectly notified is the multiple types of sensing signals x that have been notified in advance.Ｓ (Of the multiple types of patterns) which pattern's sensing signal x Ｓ For example, consider the case where the information indicates whether to transmit the sensing signal x. Ｓ This document describes an example of a method for notifying implementation information in relation to the time interval or frequency domain to which the information is transmitted.

[0117] Examples of indirect notification methods include the following first to third examples. For example, the control unit 22 may, in advance, receive five types of sensing signals x Ｓ We define (five types of patterns) and assume that these have already been notified to terminal 3 as sensing signal information 11. Below are multiple types of sensing signals x Ｓ When distinguishing between multiple types of patterns, they are denoted as sensing signals S0 to S4. The control unit 22 transmits information from the transmission unit 21a to the terminal 3 that shows the correspondence between sensing signals S0 to S4 and a time interval or frequency domain determined according to the first to third examples. In other words, the information showing the correspondence according to the first to third examples may be stored in the memory areas of the memory unit 23 of the base station 2 and the memory unit 33 of the terminal 3, and may be known. Note that any one of the following first to third examples may be implemented, or at least two may be implemented in an appropriate combination.

[0118] • First example: In the first example, the sensing signal x Ｓ Information regarding the pattern is obtained from the sensing signal x Ｓ This explains cases where notifications are indirectly communicated in relation to the time interval during which they are sent.

[0119] Figure 12 shows the sensing signal x Ｓ This figure shows a first example of a notification method for the pattern. The code G1 in Figure 12 indicates a resource block similar to the code D1 in Figure 8. For example, the control unit 22 receives the sensing signal x as implementation information. Ｓ Information indicating the correspondence between the transmitted subframe (e.g., subframe number) and the sensing signal Si (where i is an integer from 0 to 4) may be set.

[0120] Sensing signal x ＳThe following is an example of the correspondence between the transmitted subframe and the sensing signal Si. According to this correspondence, terminal 3 receives the sensing signal x Ｓ When the transmitting unit 21a notifies (indirectly notifies) that the sensing signal x to be transmitted will be transmitted as [SF0] or [SF5], the transmitting sensing signal x Ｓ The pattern can be identified as sensing signal S0. Sensing signal x Ｓ The subframe number transmitted: Sensing signal Si [SF0] or [SF5]: Sensing signal S0 [SF1] or [SF6]: Sensing signal S1 [SF2] or [SF7]: Sensing signal S2 [SF3] or [SF8]: Sensing signal S3 [SF4] or [SF9]: Sensing signal S4

[0121] • Second example: In the second example, the sensing signal x Ｓ Information regarding the pattern is obtained from the sensing signal x Ｓ This explains the case where notification is indirectly provided in relation to the frequency domain to which it is transmitted.

[0122] Figure 13 shows the sensing signal x Ｓ This figure shows a second example of a notification method for the pattern. The code G2 in Figure 13 indicates a resource block similar to the code D1 in Figure 8. For example, the control unit 22 receives the sensing signal x as implementation information. Ｓ Information indicating the correspondence between the subband to which the signal is transmitted (e.g., subband number) and the sensing signal Si may be set.

[0123] Sensing signal x Ｓ The following is an example of the correspondence between the subband to which the signal is transmitted and the sensing signal Si. According to this correspondence, terminal 3 receives the sensing signal x Ｓ When the transmitting unit 21a notifies (indirectly notifies) that the sensing signal x to be transmitted will be transmitted as [SB0], Ｓ The pattern can be identified as sensing signal S0. Sensing signal x ＳThe subband numbers to which the signal is transmitted are: Sensing signal Si [SB0]: Sensing signal S0 [SB1]: Sensing signal S1 [SB2]: Sensing signal S2 [SB3]: Sensing signal S3 [SB4]: Sensing signal S4

[0124] • Third example: In the third example, the sensing signal x Ｓ Information regarding the pattern is obtained from the sensing signal x Ｓ This explains cases where notifications are indirectly communicated in relation to the time interval during which they are sent.

[0125] Figure 14 shows the sensing signal x Ｓ This figure shows a third example of a notification method for the pattern. In Figure 14, code G3 indicates a resource block similar to code D1 in Figure 8. For example, the control unit 22 receives sensing signal x as implementation information. Ｓ Information indicating the correspondence between the slot to which the signal is transmitted (e.g., slot number) and the sensing signal Si may be set. In the third example, the sensing signal x Ｓ The subframe containing the slot from which the message is sent may be one or more specific subframes, or it may be all subframes.

[0126] Sensing signal x Ｓ The following is an example of the correspondence between the slot from which the signal is transmitted and the sensing signal Si. According to this correspondence, terminal 3 receives the sensing signal x Ｓ When the transmitting unit 21a notifies (indirectly notifies) that the sensing signal x to be transmitted will be transmitted as [SL0], Ｓ The pattern can be identified as sensing signal S0. Sensing signal x Ｓ Slot number to which the signal is transmitted: Sensing signal Si [SL0]: Sensing signal S0 [SL1]: Sensing signal S1 [SL2]: Sensing signal S2 [SL3]: Sensing signal S3

[0127] Note that sensing signal x Ｓ In the first to third examples of the notification method for the pattern, the sensing signal x ＳThe subframes, subbands, and slots to which the transmission is transmitted are not limited to one each, but may be in multiple combinations. In these cases, the number of sensing signals S0 to S4 (value of i) that are predefined and notified to terminal 3 may increase or decrease depending on the number of combinations. Also, in the first to third examples described above, the sensing signal x Ｓ The time interval or frequency domain during which the information is transmitted is, for example, sensing signal information 11, and as an example, sensing signal x Ｓ Information regarding the mapping may be sent to terminal 3.

[0128] [B-4-3] An example of the process of extracting communication signals from received signals The control unit 32 of terminal 3, as described above, uses the sensing signal information 11 received by the receiving unit 31b to extract the sensing signal x from the received signal y(n) received by the receiving unit 31b. Ｓ By canceling the component, the received signal y(n) is converted to the communication signal y Ｃ Extract the following: The communication signal y from the received signal y(n) Ｃ An example of the extraction process will be explained.

[0129] Assume the received signal y(n) is represented by the following equation (1): y(n) = a Ｃ x Ｃ (n) + a Ｓ x Ｓ (n)+z(n) (1)

[0130] Here, in equation (1) above, x Ｃ (n) is the communication signal x Ｃ (DL), x Ｓ (n) is the sensing signal x Ｓ z(n) is noise, a Ｃ is the communication signal x Ｃ The complex coefficients a that represent the gain and phase of (DL). Ｓ The sensing signal x Ｓ These are complex coefficients representing the gain and phase of the function.

[0131] The control unit 32 finds the complex coefficient α that minimizes the power of the error signal e(n), which is expressed by the following equation (2), for the received signal y(n): e(n) = y(n) - αx Ｓ(n) (2)

[0132] For example, the control unit 32 receives the communication signal x in addition to z(n). Ｃ (n) may also be considered noise, and the coefficient α may be calculated using an adaptive algorithm. Noise z(n) and communication signal x Ｃ (n) changes randomly over time, and therefore, when the coefficient α is calculated and averaged, it appears as a component unrelated to the coefficient α. For this reason, the control unit 32 processes the sensing signal x Ｓ The component correlated with (n) can be determined as the coefficient α of the received signal y(n).

[0133] The control unit 32 calculates the sensing signal x from the received signal y(n) according to the following formula (3). Ｓ By canceling (n), the communication signal y(n) can be converted from the received signal y(n). Ｃ (n) may be extracted. y Ｃ (n)=y(n)−αx Ｓ (n) (3)

[0134] For example, the control unit 32 identifies a sensing signal x based on the sensing signal information 11 (e.g., a pattern) received by the receiving unit 31b. Ｓ By multiplying (n) by the coefficient α and subtracting the result from the received signal y(n), the communication signal y is obtained. Ｃ (n) may be obtained. The calculation in equation (3) above may be performed for each sample of the digital signal of the received signal y(n).

[0135] The extraction process is not limited to the process described above. For example, the control unit 32 may use various methods to extract the communication signal C from the transmission signal 12 in which the sensing signal S and the communication signal C are superimposed.

[0136] [B-5] Operation Examples Next, an example of operation of the first embodiment will be described. Figure 15 is a sequence diagram illustrating the operation of the wireless communication system 1 according to the first embodiment, Figure 16 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the base station 2 according to the first embodiment, and Figure 17 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the terminal 3 according to the first embodiment.

[0137] As illustrated in Figure 15, the control unit 22 of the base station 2 generates sensing signal information 11 and notifies the terminal 3 of the sensing signal information 11 via the transmission unit 21a (process P1: step S11 in Figure 16). The receiving unit 31b of the terminal 3 receives the sensing signal information 11 (step S21 in Figure 17). The sensing signal information 11 is stored in the memory areas of the memory unit 23 of the base station 2 and the memory unit 33 of the terminal 3, respectively.

[0138] The control unit 22, for example, within the same frequency domain and the same time domain, sets a sensing signal x corresponding to the content of the sensing signal information 11. Ｓ to, communication signal x Ｃ It is superimposed on (processing P2: step S12 in Figure 16). Note that in processing P2, the sensing signal x Ｓ The first (indicated as "#0") transmission is performed out of a total of (e.g., N) repeated transmissions.

[0139] The transmitting unit 21a transmits the transmission signal 12 (referred to as "S+C signal #0") generated by processing P2 to the terminal 3 (processing P3: step S13 in Figure 16). The S+C signal #0 is reflected by the target 4 and received as reflected signal #0 by the base station 2 or 5.

[0140] The receiving unit 31b receives the S+C signal #0 (step S22 in Figure 17). The control unit 32 of the terminal 3 uses the sensing signal information 11 to obtain the communication signal y from the S+C signal #0. Ｃ A cancellation process (extraction process) for extracting #0 is performed (process P4: step S23 in Figure 17).

[0141] Processing P2 to P4 generates the sensing signal x Ｓ The processing related to the first transmission is completed. Note that in Figure 15, the sensing signal x Ｓ The diagrams illustrating the processing for the second to N-1 transmissions ("#1" to "#N-2") are omitted.

[0142] The base station 2 and terminal 3 receive the sensing signal x according to the sensing signal information 11. ＳThe processing (processes P5 to P7) related to the Nth transmission (denoted as "#N-1") is performed. For example, the control unit 22 performs superposition #N-1 (process P5) and transmits the S+C signal #N-1 from the transmission unit 21a to the terminal 3 (process P6). The control unit 32 receives the communication signal y from the S+C signal #N-1. Ｃ #N-1 is extracted as a cancellation process (extraction process) #N-1 (process P7). This results in the sensing signal x Ｓ The process related to the repeated transmission (N times) is completed.

[0143] [C] Second Embodiment Next, an example of the processing of the wireless communication system 1 according to the second embodiment will be described. In the second embodiment, the method of transmitting (notifying) the sensing signal information 11 differs from that of the first embodiment, but the other processing and configuration are the same as in the first embodiment.

[0144] In the first embodiment, the control unit 22 receives the sensing signal x Ｓ The system generates sensing signal information 11 that includes at least one type of information (for example, all types) from among the pattern, number of repetitions, repetition period, start timing, and mapping information.

[0145] The control unit 22 according to the second embodiment may include the at least one type of information in one sensing signal information 11, or it may include the at least one type of information in a plurality of sensing signal information 11, or at least a portion of it may overlap.

[0146] When multiple sensing signal information 11 are generated, the control unit 22 may notify the terminal 3 from the transmission unit 21a of the multiple sensing signal information 11 at the same time or at different times. Each of the multiple sensing signal information 11 may include one or more combinations of the following: one piece of information of one type, multiple pieces of information of one type, one piece of information of each of the multiple types, or multiple pieces of information of each of the multiple types.

[0147] The control unit 22 receives, for example, a sensing signal x Ｓ The first sensing signal information 11 including the pattern may be generated and notified to the terminal 3 from the transmission unit 21a. The control unit 22 may also, for example, generate sensing signal xＳ A second sensing signal information 11, which includes information on the number of repetitions, the repetition period, the start timing, and the mapping, may be generated and notified from the transmission unit 21a to the terminal 3.

[0148] The first sensing signal information 11 is sensing signal x Ｓ The first information is an example of the first information, and the second sensing signal information 11 is sensing signal x Ｓ This is an example of the second piece of information relating to the above. The transmitting unit 21a may, for example, use at least one of the following signals to transmit the first and second sensing signal information 11 to all terminals, or to terminal 3 individually, at the same or different timings. The signal may be, for example, an RRC layer signal, a MAC layer signal, a physical layer signal, etc.

[0149] The first and second sensing signal information 11 may complement each other's information, or one may modify (update, replace, add, etc.) the information of the other. The terminal 3 uses the first and second sensing signal information 11 to obtain the communication signal x from the received signal y(n). Ｃ It is acceptable to extract the first and second sensing signal information 11 in this relationship. By using these first and second sensing signal information 11, the base station 2 can determine the sensing signal x Ｓ Information regarding this can be determined and changed more flexibly, and terminal 3 receives the sensing signal x Ｓ The extraction process can be executed in accordance with the determination and changes in information related to that.

[0150] Figure 18 is a sequence diagram illustrating the operation of the wireless communication system 1 according to the second embodiment. Figure 18 is the same as the sequence diagram shown in Figure 15, but with process P1 replaced by processes P11 and P12.

[0151] As illustrated in Figure 18, the control unit 22 of the base station 2 receives the sensing signal x Ｓ The first sensing signal information 11, which includes the pattern, is generated and notified to the terminal 3 by the transmission unit 21a (processing P11). The receiving unit 31b of the terminal 3 receives the first sensing signal information 11.

[0152] Furthermore, the control unit 22 receives the sensing signal x Ｓ A second sensing signal information 11 is generated, which includes information on the number of repetitions, the repetition period, the start timing, and the mapping, and this is notified to the terminal 3 by the transmission unit 21a (processing P12). The receiving unit 31b of the terminal 3 receives the second sensing signal information 11.

[0153] The first and second sensing signal information 11 are stored in the respective memory areas of the base station 2's memory unit 23 and the terminal 3's memory unit 33.

[0154] The base station 2, in the superposition processing of processes P2 and P5, for example, the sensing signal x corresponding to the content of the first and second sensing signal information 11, is processed by the control unit 22. Ｓ to communication signal x Ｃ It may be superimposed on it.

[0155] Terminal 3, in the cancellation processing of processes P4 and P7 by the control unit 32, for example, uses the first and second sensing signal information 11 to convert the received signal y(n) to the communication signal y Ｃ You may extract it.

[0156] In the second embodiment, after the completion of processing P7, the next sensing signal x is transmitted. Ｓ If the pattern remains unchanged, notification of that pattern to terminal 3 can be omitted. In this case, base station 2 will send the next N sensing signals x Ｓ When transmitting, information other than the pattern should be notified to terminal 3. For example, in Figure 18, when processing P1 to P7 is completed, the next N sensing signals x Ｓ When transmitting, process P11 may be omitted, and the processing from the dashed-dot line (see symbol H1) to the dashed-dot line (see symbol H2) may be performed.

[0157] As a result, after the completion of the series of processes P11 to P7, the sensing signal x is sent again N times. Ｓ When transmitting, the execution of process P11 can be omitted. Therefore, processing time can be shortened, and the amount of processing resources and wireless resources used by the base station 2 and terminal 3 can be reduced.

[0158] The first sensing signal information 11 includes the sensing signal x Ｓ The pattern includes the second sensing signal information 11, which includes the sensing signal x Ｓ The information included in the first and second sensing signal information 11 is the sensing signal x Ｓ Various combinations of information concerning this matter may be selected.

[0159] For example, an increase in communication traffic may cause the wireless communication system 1 to become overloaded, resulting in a shortage of wireless resources. In this case, it may become necessary (or unavoidable) to perform sensing with fewer wireless resources than those previously notified to terminal 3. When such a situation occurs, base station 2 dynamically sends the sensing signal x by notifying the second sensing signal information 11. Ｓ This will allow for at least a partial modification of the transmission method.

[0160] Conversely, if the wireless communication system 1 enters a low-load state due to a decrease in communication traffic, it may become necessary to perform sensing with more wireless resources than those previously notified to terminal 3 in order to improve sensing accuracy (performance). In such a situation, base station 2 will dynamically use more wireless resources for sensing, at least temporarily, by notifying second sensing signal information 11, thereby changing the sensing signal x Ｓ This will allow for at least a partial modification of the transmission method.

[0161] [D] Third Embodiment Next, an example of the processing of the wireless communication system 1 according to the third embodiment will be described. Figure 19 is a sequence diagram illustrating the operation of the wireless communication system 1 according to the third embodiment. Figure 19 is the sequence diagram shown in Figure 15 with processes P21 to P26 added.

[0162] As illustrated in Figure 19, when the control unit 22 of the base station 2 performs superposition #0 in process P2, it may transmit information indicating that superposition #0 will be performed from the transmission unit 21a to the terminal 3 (notifying "superposition YES") (process P21). The control unit 32 of the terminal 3 receives the information indicating that superposition #0 will be performed (superposition YES), and when it receives the S+C signal #0 transmitted from the base station 2 in process P3, it executes cancellation process #0 in process P4 and the communication signal y Ｃ You may obtain #0.

[0163] Similarly, in the Nth iteration of processes P5 to P7, when the control unit 22 performs superposition #N-1 in process P5, it may transmit information indicating that superposition #N-1 will be performed from the transmission unit 21a to the terminal 3 (process P26). The control unit 32 receives information indicating that superposition #N-1 will be performed (superposition YES), and when it receives the S+C signal #N-1 transmitted from the base station 2 in process P6, it executes cancellation process #N-1 in process P7 and transmits the communication signal y Ｃ You may obtain #N-1.

[0164] On the other hand, if the control unit 22 decides not to perform superposition #1 (skips it) in process P22, it may transmit information indicating that superposition #1 will not be performed from the transmission unit 21a to the terminal 3 (notifies "superposition NO") (process P23). The receiving unit 31b of the terminal 3 may receive information indicating that superposition #1 will not be performed (superposition NO). The control unit 22 then transmits the communication signal x without performing superposition #1. Ｃ Signal #1 (referred to as "C signal #1") is transmitted from the transmitting unit 21a to the terminal 3 (process P24). The control unit 32 of the terminal 3 receives information (supervision NO) indicating that superposition #1 will not be performed, and when it receives C signal #1 transmitted from the base station 2 in process P24, it may skip cancellation process #1 in process P25 and acquire C signal #1 as a received signal.

[0165] Information indicating whether to perform superposition (Superposition YES) or whether to perform superposition (Superposition NO) is transmitted via sensing signal x Ｓ and communication signal x ＣThis is an example of a third piece of information indicating whether or not superimposed. Superimposition YES or Superimposition NO may be indicated using control signals, such as signals from the RRC layer, MAC layer, or physical layer.

[0166] The superimposed YES notification can be interpreted as a notification that the S+C signal will be transmitted, or a notification instructing terminal 3 to perform a cancellation process (extraction process). The superimposed NO notification can be interpreted as a notification that the S+C signal will not be transmitted, a notification that the C signal will be transmitted, or a notification instructing terminal 3 to skip (suppress, disable) the cancellation process (extraction process).

[0167] Base station 2 may notify only one of superimposed YES or superimposed NO. In this case, terminal 3 may, for example, perform a cancellation process when it receives superimposed YES, and skip the cancellation process when it does not receive superimposed YES. Alternatively, terminal 3 may, for example, skip the cancellation process when it receives superimposed NO, and perform the cancellation process when it does not receive superimposed NO.

[0168] Thus, base station 2 may decide whether or not to transmit either superimposed YES or superimposed NO depending on whether or not superimposition is performed. Also, terminal 3 may perform or skip cancellation processing depending on whether or not either superimposed YES or superimposed NO is received. For example, the control unit 32 of terminal 3 will determine whether the third information is sensing signal x Ｓ and communication signal x Ｃ Extraction may be performed if it indicates that and are superimposed.

[0169] This allows the sensing signal x to be adjusted according to various factors such as an increase or decrease in communication traffic, or a change in the priority of sensing or wireless communication. Ｓ It is possible to flexibly switch whether or not to transmit (superimpose) the sensing signal x Ｓ Even if the pattern is irregular (or changes irregularly after notification of sensing signal information 11), the control unit 22 will send sensing signal x ＳIt is possible to flexibly switch whether or not to transmit (superimpose) the signal. Therefore, the efficiency of wireless resource utilization can be adaptively improved.

[0170] [E] Fourth Embodiment Next, a fourth embodiment will be described. Figure 20 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a wireless communication system 1A according to the fourth embodiment. The wireless communication system 1A differs from the wireless communication system 1 shown in Figure 3 in that it further includes a terminal 6. The terminal 6 is located within cell C10, in other words, within the coverage of base station 2. Note that the terminal 6 may be located within cell C11 as well as cell C10.

[0171] Terminal 6 differs from terminal 3 in that it does not perform the cancellation process (extraction process) according to the embodiment, but other processes and configurations are the same as terminal 3. Note that terminal 6 may be a terminal that does not have a function to perform the cancellation process. Alternatively, terminal 6 may be a terminal (terminal 3) that has a function to perform the cancellation process, similar to terminal 3, but does not explicitly indicate that the cancellation process can be performed (or has disabled the function) temporarily or permanently.

[0172] Figure 21 is a sequence diagram illustrating the operation of the wireless communication system 1A according to the fourth embodiment. Figure 21 is the same as the sequence diagram shown in Figure 15, but with the addition of a terminal 6 and processes P31 to P33.

[0173] As illustrated in Figure 21, the transmission unit 31a of terminal 3 transmits (notifies) cancellation processing capability information to base station 2, indicating that terminal 3 is capable of performing cancellation processing (extraction processing) (processing P31). Cancellation processing capability information is an example of a fourth piece of information indicating that terminal 3 has the function to perform extraction. Cancellation processing capability information may also be notified using control signals, such as signals from the RRC layer, MAC layer, or physical layer.

[0174] When the control unit 22 of the base station 2 receives cancellation processing information from the terminal 3 via the receiving unit 21b (for example, in response to the receipt), it transmits sensing signal information 11 from the transmitting unit 21a to the terminal 3 (processing P1), and processes P2 and subsequent processes (processing P2 to P7) are executed.

[0175] On the other hand, terminal 6 that does not perform the cancellation process (extraction process) does not send cancellation-enabled information to base station 2. The control unit 22 of base station 2 sends a communication signal x to terminal 6 that does not send cancellation-enabled information. Ｃ (Denoted as "C signal B#0") contains sensing signal x Ｓ Without superimposing the signal, the C signal B#0 is transmitted from the transmitting unit 21a to the terminal 3 (processing P32). The terminal 6 receives the C signal B#0 via the receiving unit 31b. Similarly thereafter, the control unit 22 sends the sensing signal x to the C signal B#M-1 (M is an integer of 1 or more) directed to the terminal 6. Ｓ Without superimposing the signal, the C signal B#M-1 is transmitted from the transmitting unit 21a to the terminal 3 (processing P33). The terminal 6 receives the C signal B#M-1 via the receiving unit 31b.

[0176] In this way, when the base station 2 receives information from the terminal 3 indicating that cancellation processing is possible, it identifies the terminal 3 as the target for transmitting the S+C signal. As a result, even if the wireless communication system 1A contains a mix of terminals 3 that can perform cancellation processing and terminals 6 that cannot, the base station 2 can appropriately transmit the transmission signal 12 (S+C signal) to the terminal 3 that can perform cancellation processing.

[0177] Furthermore, for example, terminal 3 can behave as terminal 6 that does not perform cancellation processing (extraction processing) temporarily or permanently by notifying base station 2 of information that cancellation processing is possible. This allows terminal 3 to, for example, temporarily or permanently improve communication throughput.

[0178] [F] The other embodiments described above, and the technologies related to the first to fourth embodiments, may be implemented in appropriate combinations. Furthermore, they can be modified and changed as follows.

[0179] For example, the extraction process performed by terminal 3 may utilize AI (Artificial Intelligence) processing using a neural network. For example, the received signal y(n) and the sensing signal x Ｓ Depending on the input (n), an appropriate coefficient α or communication signal y Ｃ Inference processing may be used with a machine learning model trained to output (n). The machine learning model may, for example, consider various transmission environments between base station 2 and terminal 3, and the received signal y(n) and sensing signal x in each transmission environment. Ｓ The combinations of (n) may be generated by training (machine learning processing) using accumulated training data.

[0180] Furthermore, the control unit 32 of terminal 3 generates sensing signal information 11 and transmits it from the transmission unit 31a to the base station 2, and also transmits the communication signal x Ｃ (UL) sensing signal x Ｓ The transmission signal 12 may be generated by superimposing the sensing signal information 11 and the transmission signal 12, and transmitted from the transmission unit 31a to the base station 2. In this case, the receiving unit 21b of the base station 2 receives the sensing signal information 11 and the transmission signal 12, and the control unit 22 uses the sensing signal information 11 to generate the communication signal y from the transmission signal 12 [received signal y(n)]. Ｃ You may perform an extraction process to extract (UL).

[0181] Sensing signal x from wireless communication system 1 or 1A Ｓ The transmission method may be applied, for example, to sensing in autonomous driving of vehicles, etc. As an example, a sensing signal x from wireless communication system 1 or 1A Ｓ This transmission method may be used additionally or as a substitute for existing ambient (environmental) sensors such as LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) and radar.

[0182] 1, 1A Wireless communication system 11 Sensing signal information 12 Transmitted signal 13 Reflected signal 2, 5 Base station 2a, 2b Precoder 2c, 3b Combiner 2d, 3a Antenna 21 Wireless communication unit 21a, 31a Transmitting unit 21b, 31b Transmitting unit 22, 32 Control unit 23, 33 Storage unit 24, 31 Communication unit 210, 310 Processor 220, 320 Memory 230, 330 Storage device 240, 340 Wireless communication circuit 250 Communication interface C10, C11 Cell

Claims

1. A receiving device comprising: a receiving unit that receives first information relating to a sensing signal and a first signal in which the sensing signal and a communication signal are superimposed from a transmitting device; and a control unit that extracts the communication signal from the first signal using the first information.

2. The receiving device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit extracts the communication signal by canceling the sensing signal from the first signal using the first information.

3. The receiving device according to claim 1, wherein the first information includes at least one type of information among the pattern of the sensing signal, the number of repetitions of the sensing signal, the repetition period of the sensing signal, the start timing of the sensing signal, and information relating to the mapping of the sensing signal.

4. The receiving unit receives second information relating to the sensing signal from the transmitting device, and the control unit extracts the communication signal from the first signal using the first information and the second information, as described in claim 1.

5. The receiving device according to claim 4, wherein the first information and the second information have a relationship in which they complement each other, or in which one modifies the other.

6. The receiving unit receives from the transmitting device third information indicating whether or not the sensing signal and the communication signal are superimposed, and the control unit performs the extraction when the third information indicates that the sensing signal and the communication signal are superimposed, according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. The receiving device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising a transmitting unit that transmits to the transmitting device a fourth information indicating that the receiving device has the function of performing the extraction.

8. The receiving device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the first signal is a signal superimposed such that at least a portion of each of the sensing signal and the communication signal overlaps with each other in the frequency domain, and at least a portion of each of the sensing signal and the communication signal overlaps with each other in the time domain.

9. A transmitting device comprising: a control unit that generates a first signal in which a sensing signal and a communication signal are superimposed, and first information for a receiving device to extract the communication signal from the first signal; and a transmitting unit that transmits the first information and the first signal to the receiving device.

10. A communication system comprising a transmitting device and a receiving device, wherein the transmitting device generates a first signal in which a sensing signal and a communication signal are superimposed, and first information for the receiving device to extract the communication signal from the first signal, transmits the first information and the first signal to the receiving device, and the receiving device receives the first information and the first signal from the transmitting device, and uses the first information to extract the communication signal from the first signal.

Images