Communication method and communication apparatus

Abstract

Provided in the present application are a communication method and a communication apparatus. The method comprises: a first node receiving, in a first frequency band, capability information from a second node; and the first node communicating with the second node in a second frequency band on the basis of the capability information, wherein the capability information indicates a beam switching capability of the second node in the second frequency band, and the second frequency band is higher than the first frequency band. On this basis, beam switching can be performed more flexibly in a higher frequency band.

Description

Communication methods and communication devices Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of communications, and more specifically, to a communication method and a communication device. Background Technology

[0002] With the evolution of wireless communication technology, the utilization of higher frequency bands (e.g., millimeter wave (mmW) bands) is increasing, offering greater bandwidth and higher data transmission speeds compared to lower frequency bands. In higher frequency communication systems, beam switching mechanisms can be employed to enhance signal coverage and transmission efficiency. However, how to implement beam switching more flexibly in higher frequency communication systems is a problem that urgently needs to be solved in this field. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This application provides a communication method and a communication device that can more flexibly achieve beam switching at higher frequency bands.

[0004] Firstly, a communication method is provided. This method can be applied to a first node (e.g., a network device), meaning that the method can be executed by the first node or by its constituent components (e.g., a chip, chip system, circuit, communication module, or processor), and this application does not limit this. The following description mainly uses a first node as an example.

[0005] The method may include: receiving capability information from a second node in a first frequency band; and communicating with the second node in a second frequency band based on the capability information; wherein the capability information indicates the beam switching capability of the second node in the second frequency band, which is higher than the first frequency band.

[0006] Based on the above technical solution, communication between the first node and the second node at higher frequency bands can be based on the beam switching capability of the second node at higher frequency bands. For example, if the second node has a strong beam switching capability at higher frequency bands, the first node and the second node can communicate using a shorter beam switching interval at higher frequency bands; if the second node has a weak beam switching capability at higher frequency bands, the first node and the second node can communicate using a longer beam switching interval at higher frequency bands.

[0007] Based on this, second nodes with different costs, technological levels, and power consumption can all achieve beam switching at higher frequency bands, thereby lowering the implementation threshold for communication at higher frequency bands. This enables communication systems to communicate at lower power consumption at higher frequency bands, broadening the application scenarios of higher frequency band communication while ensuring the transmission rate and capacity of the communication system. In other words, the communication system achieves more flexible beam switching at higher frequency bands.

[0008] Conversely, if the first and second nodes communicate using a fixed shorter beam switching interval at a higher frequency band, this can only be achieved if the second node uses a high-cost / high-tech process, and the power consumption is high, resulting in poor flexibility.

[0009] Furthermore, when the system combines low-frequency and high-frequency bands, the first and second nodes transmit capability information via the low-frequency band. Leveraging the low-frequency band's low path loss and wide propagation range, this makes capability information transmission easier and more stable. The first and second nodes communicate via a higher-frequency band, taking advantage of the higher bandwidth and system capacity offered by the higher frequency band, which can improve data transmission rates.

[0010] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the capability information includes first information and second information, wherein the first information indicates the beam switching capability of the second node in receiving data on the second frequency band, and the second information indicates the beam switching capability of the second node in transmitting data on the second frequency band; wherein, when the beam switching capabilities of the received data and the transmitted data are the same, the first information and the second information are the same field; when the beam switching capabilities of the received data and the transmitted data are different, the first information and the second information are different fields.

[0011] Based on the above technical solution, if the uplink and downlink beam switching capabilities of the second node are the same, the second node can indicate the uplink and downlink beam switching capabilities through a single field in its capability information; if the uplink and downlink beam switching capabilities of the second node are different, the second node can indicate the uplink and downlink beam switching capabilities separately through two different fields in its capability information. This reduces the beam capability indication overhead when the uplink and downlink beam switching capabilities of the second node are the same.

[0012] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the field indicates beam switching capability based on the number of symbols in the beam switching interval; or, the field indicates a first time interval, which is one of a plurality of candidate beam switching intervals.

[0013] Based on the above technical solution, the field can indicate the beam switching capability of the second node in either of two ways. In the first way, the field directly indicates the number of symbols in the beam switching interval. This method provides a smaller granularity for indicating beam switching capability and allows for a wider range of selectable values, enabling the second node to indicate beam switching capability more accurately. In the second way, the field indicates the beam switching interval from a set of finite candidate beam switching intervals. This method provides a larger granularity for indicating beam switching capability and allows for fewer selectable values, enabling the second node to indicate beam switching capability with lower overhead.

[0014] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the plurality of candidate beam switching intervals includes at least two of the following: a cyclic prefix; a time-domain symbol; two time-domain symbols; four time-domain symbols; a transmission time interval; or, a subframe.

[0015] Based on the above technical solution, when the field is used to indicate the beam switching interval from the set, the set may include two or more preset time intervals.

[0016] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the communication includes uplink communication and / or downlink communication. When the beam switching capabilities of the received data and the transmitted data are the same, the beam direction and beam switching interval of the uplink communication and the downlink communication are the same; when the beam switching capabilities of the received data and the transmitted data are different, the beam direction and / or beam switching interval of the uplink communication and the downlink communication are different.

[0017] Based on the above technical solution, if the uplink and downlink beam switching capabilities of the second node are the same, then the uplink or downlink communication between the first node and the second node can adopt the same beam switching strategy, ensuring symmetrical and efficient performance of uplink and downlink communication; if the uplink and downlink beam switching capabilities of the second node are different, then the uplink or downlink communication between the first node and the second node can adopt different beam switching strategies, thereby adapting to hardware characteristics and different application scenarios, and improving the overall flexibility and efficiency of the system.

[0018] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the beam direction and / or beam switching interval for communication are determined based on the beam switching capability.

[0019] Based on the above technical solution, the beam switching strategy for the first node and the second node to communicate in the second frequency band is determined based on the beam switching capability of the second node. That is, the beam switching strategy for communication can be flexibly adjusted based on the beam switching capability of the second node, which increases the flexibility of the system.

[0020] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the method may further include: sending a request message to the second node on the first frequency band, the request message requesting the second node's beam switching capability on the second frequency band.

[0021] Based on the above technical solution, the first node can actively request to query the second node's beam switching capability in the second frequency band, and then configure a suitable beam switching strategy based on the beam switching capability.

[0022] Secondly, a communication method is provided. This method can be applied to a second node (e.g., a terminal device), meaning that the method can be executed by the second node or by its constituent components (e.g., a chip, chip system, circuit, communication module, or processor), and this application does not limit this. The following description mainly uses a second node as an example.

[0023] The method may include: sending capability information to a first node in a first frequency band; and communicating with the first node in a second frequency band based on the capability information; wherein the capability information indicates the beam switching capability of the second node in the second frequency band, which is higher than the first frequency band.

[0024] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the capability information includes first information and second information. The first information indicates the beam switching capability of the second node in receiving data on the second frequency band, and the second information indicates the beam switching capability of the second node in transmitting data on the second frequency band. Wherein, if the beam switching capabilities of the received data and the transmitted data are the same, the first information and the second information are the same field; if the beam switching capabilities of the received data and the transmitted data are different, the first information and the second information are different fields.

[0025] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the field indicates beam switching capability based on the number of symbols in the beam switching interval; or, the field indicates a first time interval, which is one of a plurality of candidate beam switching intervals.

[0026] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the plurality of candidate beam switching intervals includes at least two of the following: a cyclic prefix; a time-domain symbol; two time-domain symbols; four time-domain symbols; a transmission time interval; or, a subframe.

[0027] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the communication includes uplink communication and / or downlink communication. When the beam switching capabilities of the received data and the transmitted data are the same, the beam direction and beam switching interval of the uplink communication and the downlink communication are the same; when the beam switching capabilities of the received data and the transmitted data are different, the beam direction and / or beam switching interval of the uplink communication and the downlink communication are different.

[0028] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the beam direction and / or beam switching interval for communication are determined based on the beam switching capability.

[0029] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the method may further include: receiving request information from the first node on the first frequency band, the request information requesting the second node's beam switching capability on the second frequency band.

[0030] For the beneficial effects and possible designs of the second aspect, please refer to the relevant descriptions in the first aspect. For example, the beneficial effects of any possible implementation in the first aspect also apply to the second aspect, and will not be elaborated further here.

[0031] Thirdly, a communication apparatus is provided for performing the methods of any one of the first to fourth aspects and any possible implementation thereof. Specifically, the apparatus may include units and / or modules for performing the methods of any one of the first to fourth aspects and any possible implementation thereof, such as processing units and / or communication units.

[0032] In one implementation, the device is a communication device (such as a first communication device). When the device is a communication device, the communication unit can be a transceiver or an input / output interface; the processing unit can be at least one processor. Optionally, the transceiver can be a transceiver circuit. Optionally, the input / output interface can be an input / output circuit.

[0033] In another implementation, the device is a chip, chip system, circuit, or communication module for a communication device (such as the first communication device). When the device is a chip, chip system, or circuit for a communication device, the communication unit may be an input / output interface, interface circuit, output circuit, input circuit, pin, or related circuit on the chip, chip system, or circuit; the processing unit may be at least one processor, processing circuit, or logic circuit.

[0034] Fourthly, a communication device is provided, the device comprising: at least one processor configured to cause the device to perform the methods of any one of the first to fourth aspects and any possible implementation thereof.

[0035] Optionally, the at least one processor is configured to execute computer programs or instructions to perform the methods of any one of the first to fourth aspects and any possible implementation thereof.

[0036] Optionally, the device further includes a memory for storing the computer program or instructions.

[0037] Optionally, the at least one processor is coupled to a memory for storing the computer program or instructions. The memory may be located externally to the device.

[0038] Optionally, the device also includes a communication interface through which the processor reads instructions from memory. This can be understood as the communication interface being coupled to the processor and used to input computer programs or instructions to the processor, or to output information from the processor.

[0039] Unless otherwise specified, or if the transmission and acquisition / reception operations involved do not contradict their actual function or internal logic in the relevant description, they can be understood as output, input, or other operations, or as transmission and reception operations performed by radio frequency circuits and antennas. This application does not limit them in this regard.

[0040] In one implementation, the device is a communication device (such as a first communication device).

[0041] In another implementation, the device is a chip, chip system, circuit, or communication module for a communication device (such as the first communication device). Optionally, the chip is a modem chip, also known as a baseband chip, or a system-on-chip (SoC) chip containing a modem core, or a system-in-package (SIP) chip.

[0042] Fifthly, a computer-readable storage medium is provided that stores a computer program (e.g., program code) or instructions that, when executed on a communication device, cause the communication device to perform the methods of any one of the first to fourth aspects and any possible implementation thereof.

[0043] In a sixth aspect, a computer program product containing instructions is provided, which, when run on a computer, causes the computer to perform the methods of any one of the first to fourth aspects and any possible implementation thereof.

[0044] In a seventh aspect, a communication system is provided, comprising a first communication device according to any one of the first to fourth aspects described above. Attached Figure Description

[0045] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the architecture of a communication system provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0046] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of a communication system provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0047] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of another communication scenario provided by an embodiment of this application.

[0048] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of a communication method 400 provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0049] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of a communication device 500 provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0050] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of another communication device 600 provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0051] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of a chip system 700 provided in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0052] The technical solutions in this application will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0053] Before introducing the scheme of this application, the following points should be noted.

[0054] (1) In this application, "instruction" can include direct instruction, indirect instruction, explicit instruction, implicit instruction, etc. When describing an instruction information as indicating A, it can be understood that the instruction information carries A, carries the identifier of A, carries B which is associated with A, carries the identifier of B which is associated with A, etc. In other words, if the receiving side of an instruction information can determine A based on the instruction information, it can be described as the instruction information indicating A, and the specific method of determination is not limited. When it is understood that the instruction information carries A, "instruction" can be replaced with "includes". In this case, a statement such as "send / receive instruction information, the instruction information indicates A" can be replaced with "send / receive A".

[0055] In this application, the information indicated by the instruction information is called the information to be instructed. In specific implementations, there are many ways to indicate the information to be instructed, such as, but not limited to, directly indicating the information to be instructed, such as the information to be instructed itself or its index. It can also indirectly indicate the information to be instructed by indicating other information, where there is a relationship between the other information and the information to be instructed. It can also indicate only a part of the information to be instructed, while the other parts are known or pre-agreed upon. For example, the instruction of specific information can be achieved by using a pre-agreed (e.g., protocol-defined) arrangement of various pieces of information, thereby reducing instruction overhead to some extent. Furthermore, the information to be instructed can be sent as a whole or divided into multiple sub-information pieces, and the sending period and / or timing of these sub-information pieces can be the same or different.

[0056] (2) In this application, the expression " / " is used to indicate that the objects before and after are in an "or" relationship; for example, A / B can mean: A or B. The expression "and / or" is used to indicate that the objects before and after are in a relationship of either "and" or "or"; for example, A and / or B can mean the following: A exists alone, B exists alone, A and B exist simultaneously, where A and B can be single or multiple. "At least one of the following" or similar expressions are used to indicate any combination of the listed items; for example, at least one of A, B and / or C can mean the following: A exists alone, B exists alone, C exists alone, A and B exist simultaneously, B and C exist simultaneously, A and C exist simultaneously, A, B and C exist simultaneously, where A, B, and C can be single or multiple.

[0057] (3) In this application, "send" and "receive" indicate the direction of signal transmission. For example, "send information to XX" can be understood as the destination of the information being XX, which may include direct transmission via the air interface or indirect transmission by other units or modules via the air interface. "Receive information from YY" can be understood as the source of the information being YY, which may include direct reception from YY via the air interface or indirect reception from YY by other units or modules via the air interface. "Send" can also be understood as the "output" of the chip interface, and "receive" can also be understood as the "input" of the chip interface. In other words, sending and receiving can occur between devices, such as between network devices and terminal devices, or within a device, such as between components, modules, chips, software modules, or hardware modules within the device via a bus, wiring, or interface.

[0058] (4) In the various embodiments of this application, unless otherwise specified or in case of logical conflict, the terms and / or descriptions of different embodiments are consistent and can be referenced by each other. The technical features of different embodiments can be combined to form new embodiments according to their inherent logical relationship.

[0059] (5) In this application, "first," "second," and "#1," "#2," and "#A" are merely for descriptive convenience and are used to distinguish objects, and are not intended to limit the scope of the embodiments of this application. They are not used to describe the order or sequence of features. It should be understood that such described objects can be interchanged where appropriate in order to describe solutions other than those in the embodiments of this application.

[0060] (6) In this application, "predefined" can mean a standard protocol predefined, or it can mean a pre-agreed or pre-negotiated agreement between devices. Here, "protocol" can refer to a standard protocol in the field of communications, for example, it may include fourth-generation (4G) protocols. th Generation 4G network, fifth generation (5G) network th This application does not limit the scope to network protocols such as generation (5G), new radio (NR) protocols, 5.5G network protocols, future communication network protocols, and related protocols applied in future communication systems.

[0061] (7) In this application, the words “exemplary,” “for example,” etc., are used to indicate examples, illustrations, or descriptions. Any embodiment or design described as an “example” in this application should not be construed as being more preferred or advantageous than other embodiments or designs. Specifically, the use of the word “example” is intended to present the concept in a concrete manner. In the embodiments of this application, “of,” “corresponding, relevant,” and “corresponding” may sometimes be used interchangeably, and it should be noted that their intended meanings are consistent unless their distinction is emphasized.

[0062] The communication system and network architecture applicable to the embodiments of this application will be described below with reference to Figures 1 and 2.

[0063] The embodiments of this application can be applied to wireless local area networks (WLANs), for example, supporting IEEE 802.11 related standards, such as 802.11a / b / g standards, 802.11n standards, 802.11ac standards, 802.11ax standards (i.e. WiFi 6, also known as the high efficient (HE) standard), 802.11be standards (i.e. WiFi 7, also known as the extremely high throughput (EHT) standard), 802.11bn standards (i.e. WiFi 8, also known as the ultra high reliability (UHR) standard) or WiFi 8 next-generation standards, and also include 802.11ad, 802.11ay standards, etc. The embodiments of this application can also be applied to wireless local area network systems that support integrated millimeter wave (IMMW), wireless local area network systems that support ultra-wideband (UWB) such as the 802.15 series standards, such as the 802.15.4ab standard, sensing systems such as the 802.11bf series standards, or wireless positioning such as 802.11az. This application can also support standard protocols such as Sparklink and Nearlink.

[0064] Although the embodiments of this application are mainly illustrated using the deployment of WLAN networks, especially networks applying the IEEE 802.11 system standard, those skilled in the art will readily understand that the various aspects involved in the embodiments of this application can be extended to other networks employing various standards or protocols, such as:

[0065] This can include Internet of Things (IoT) systems, narrowband Internet of Things (NB-IoT) systems, Long Term Evolution (LTE) systems, and short-range wireless communication network systems. Short-range wireless communication network systems include SparkLink communication network systems (including SparkLink Basic (SLB), SparkLink Low Energy (SLE), and SparkLink Positioning (SLP) versions), Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), 5G communication systems, and other new communication systems emerging in future communication developments. Specifically, SparkLink's SLB can be referred to as "Technical Requirements and Test Methods for Wireless Short-Range Communication Vehicle-Mounted Air Interface," and SparkLink's SLE can be referred to as "Technical Requirements and Test Methods for Low-Power Air Interface Access Layer of SparkLink Wireless Communication System."

[0066] The technical solutions provided in this application can also be applied to machine-type communication (MTC), long-term evolution-machine (LTE-M) technology, device-to-device (D2D) networks, machine-to-machine (M2M) networks, Internet of Things (IoT) networks, or other networks. Among these, IoT networks may include, for example, vehicle-to-everything (V2X) networks. The communication methods in V2X systems are collectively referred to as vehicle-to-everything (V2X), where X can represent anything. For example, V2X may include vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communication, vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2I) communication, vehicle-to-pedestrian (V2P) communication, or vehicle-to-network (V2N) communication, etc.

[0067] In the aforementioned communication systems, devices with communication capabilities can be called nodes or communication nodes. For example, a node can include independent devices such as handheld terminals, vehicles, in-vehicle equipment, network-side equipment, user equipment, access terminals, user units, user stations, mobile stations, mobile stations, remote stations, remote terminals, wireless communication equipment, user agents, or user devices. It can also be a component (such as a chip or integrated circuit) contained within an independent device. A node can be any possible intelligent terminal device (such as a mobile phone), intelligent transportation equipment (such as vehicles, drones, etc.), intelligent manufacturing equipment, smart home devices (such as large screens, speakers, etc.), etc.

[0068] The nodes in this application embodiment can be applied to various application scenarios, such as the following: mobile internet (MI), industrial control, self-driving, transportation safety, internet of things (IoT), smart city, or smart home. In some application scenarios or certain network types, devices with similar communication capabilities may not be called nodes but may be called devices; this application does not impose any restrictions on this.

[0069] For example, in Figures 1 and 2 shown below, nodes can communicate with each other through D2D, M2M or V2X technologies.

[0070] Referring to Figure 1, as an example, Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the architecture of a communication system provided in an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 1, the communication system may include at least one first node (e.g., a network device) and at least one second node (e.g., a terminal device). In this document, the first node may also be referred to as the first device, and the second node may also be referred to as the second device; no distinction is made between them in this document. The descriptions of the first node and the second node are as follows:

[0071] For example, the first node can be a master device, specifically a next-generation node B (gNB), a next-generation evolved node B (ng-eNB), a node in a short-range wireless communication network system (e.g., a master node, management node, or G node in a StarSpark communication network system), or an access network device in a future communication network. The master device can be any device with wireless transceiver capabilities. This master device can be an access node, wireless relay node, or wireless backhaul node in a wireless local area network (WiFi) system. This master device can be a wireless controller in a cloud radio access network (CRAN) scenario. This master device can be a wearable device or a vehicle-mounted device. This master device can also be a small cell, a transmission reception point (TRP) (or a transmission point), etc.

[0072] For example, the second node can be a terminal device, which can also be called user equipment (UE), a terminal, etc. A terminal device is a device with wireless transceiver capabilities that can be deployed on land, including indoors or outdoors, handheld, wearable, or vehicle-mounted; it can also be deployed on water, such as on ships; and it can be deployed in the air, such as on airplanes, balloons, or satellites. Terminal devices can be mobile phones, tablets, computers with wireless transceiver capabilities, virtual reality (VR) terminal devices, augmented reality (AR) terminal devices, wireless terminals in industrial control, wireless terminals in self-driving, wireless terminals in remote medical care, wireless terminals in smart grids, wireless terminals in transportation safety, wireless terminals in smart cities, wireless terminals in smart homes, and so on. It is understood that the terminal device can also be a node in a short-range wireless communication network system (e.g., a slave node, terminal node, or T node in a StarFlash communication network system), a terminal device in a future communication network, or a terminal device in a future evolved PLMN, etc.

[0073] It is understood that the terminal device shown in this application may include not only vehicles (such as complete vehicles) in the Internet of Vehicles, but also in-vehicle equipment or in-vehicle terminals in the Internet of Vehicles. This application does not limit the specific form of the terminal device when it is applied to the Internet of Vehicles.

[0074] It should be understood that Figure 1 exemplarily illustrates a first node (the network device shown in Figure 1) and six second nodes (the terminal devices shown in Figure 1), as well as the communication links between the nodes. Optionally, the communication system may also include multiple first nodes, and the coverage area of ​​each first node may include other numbers of second nodes, such as more or fewer terminal devices, etc., which is not limited in this application.

[0075] Optionally, the communication links between the aforementioned communication devices can include various types of connection media, including wired links (e.g., fiber optics), wireless links, or combinations of wired and wireless links. For example, short-range wireless connection technologies may include SparkLink, 802.11b / g, Bluetooth, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), Zigbee, radio frequency identification (RFID), ultra-wideband (UWB) technology, impulse radio (IR) ultra-wideband (IR-UWB), or short-range wireless communication systems (e.g., vehicle-mounted short-range wireless communication systems).

[0076] The aforementioned communication devices, such as the first node, second nodes 1 to 6 in Figure 1, can be configured with multiple antennas. These multiple antennas may include at least one transmitting antenna for transmitting signals and at least one receiving antenna for receiving signals, etc. This application embodiment does not limit the specific structure of each communication device. Optionally, the communication system may also include other network entities such as a network controller and a mobility management entity; this application embodiment is not limited to these.

[0077] It is understood that the communication architecture diagram shown in Figure 1 is only an example. For other forms of communication architecture diagrams, please refer to relevant standards or protocols, etc., which will not be described in detail here.

[0078] With the continuous development of wireless communication technology, more and more devices supporting wireless communication are gradually entering people's lives, such as intelligent transportation equipment, smart home devices, and robots. Based on wireless communication technology, it is possible to achieve wireless ranging and positioning of various intelligent devices within the communication domain, for example, in scenarios such as ranging and positioning of indoor intelligent devices and keyless entry and start of intelligent vehicles.

[0079] In the wireless communication scenario where smart devices operate, a certain communication area or range may include one or more communication domains. A communication domain refers to a system consisting of a group of communication nodes with communication relationships, and the communication connections (i.e., communication links) between these nodes. A communication domain includes a master node and at least one slave node. The master and slave nodes can communicate with each other, or between master nodes, or between slave nodes. The master node can manage the slave nodes, manage the time-frequency resources of the communication domain, and has the function of scheduling resources for communication, positioning, measurement, or sensing among the communication nodes in the domain. Slave nodes obey the scheduling of the master node and use the resources allocated by the master node to communicate with the master node and / or other nodes.

[0080] Specifically, the master node can be a management node or G node in the Sparklink Basic (SLB) or Sparklink Low Energy (SLE) standard, or a master device in the Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) standard, or an access point (AP) in the Wi-Fi standard. This application does not limit the application in this regard.

[0081] Specifically, the slave node can be an end node or T node in the Sparklink Basic (SLB) or Sparklink Low Energy (SLE) standard, a slave device in the Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) standard, or a station (STA) in the Wi-Fi standard. This application does not limit the application in this regard.

[0082] Referring to Figure 2, which is a schematic diagram of a communication system provided in an embodiment of this application, as an example, the above-described sensing process can be achieved through a star-flash system in some implementations.

[0083] As shown in Figure 2, the StarShine system can include a basic application layer, a basic service layer, and a StarShine access layer (also known as the access layer).

[0084] The basic application layer defines various units common to different applications, each with its own message format and application rules. To enable communication between different devices on different platforms, the basic application layer can include basic communication units, general sensing units, general video units, general audio units, general data units, and vehicle control units. The general sensing units can be used to detect user operations, device battery information, signal strength, etc. User operations can include touch commands input by the user on the electronic device screen, user-inputted air gestures, voice control commands, etc.

[0085] The basic service layer can include a control plane and a data plane. The control plane includes functional modules such as device discovery, service management, channel management, quality of service (QoS) management, security management, multi-domain coordination, measurement management, and 5G convergence. The data plane includes channel control data, broadcast data, service management data, real-time data, and reliable data, as well as transmission control adaptation protocols and TCP / IP pass-through protocols.

[0086] In some implementations, the basic service layer may also include a perception notification module and a perception data module. These modules can be included within the aforementioned modules, or they can be separate components. The perception notification module can be used for resource coordination and the transmission and processing of perception control signaling. The perception data unit receives and analyzes the measurement data used for perception to obtain the perception results.

[0087] In some implementations, the basic service layer may also include a ranging notification module and a ranging data module. These modules can be included within the aforementioned modules, or they can be separate components. The ranging notification module can be used for resource coordination and the transmission and processing of ranging control signaling. The ranging data unit receives and analyzes the measurement data used for ranging to obtain the ranging result.

[0088] The data link layer supports sensing or ranging services, improving the transmission of signaling and corresponding signals used for sensing or ranging. As shown in Figure 2, the SparkLink system can include a SparkLink Basic (SLB) access layer and a SparkLink Low-Energy (SLE) access layer. The SLB and SLE access layers correspond to the SLB and SLE communication links, respectively. The SLB communication link is used for high-bandwidth, high-speed communication, while the SLE communication link is used for low-power, low-bandwidth, low-speed communication. A data link layer is introduced into both the SLB and SLE access layers, and this data link layer includes a link control layer and a media access layer. Furthermore, a physical layer can be set in both the SLB and SLE access layers to provide physical connections for the data link layer.

[0089] Referring to Figure 3, as an example, Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of another communication scenario provided by an embodiment of this application. In some implementations, the above-mentioned sensing process can be implemented through a Wi-Fi scenario. As shown in Figure 3, the communication method provided by this application is applicable to data communication between access points (APs) (AP1 and AP2 shown in Figure 3) and stations (STAs) (non-AP STA1, non-AP STA2, and non-AP STA3 shown in Figure 3). A station can be a non-access point station (non-AP STA), simply referred to as a non-AP station or STA, while an AP can be called an access station. Specifically, the solution of this application is applicable to data communication between an AP and one or more non-AP stations (e.g., data communication between AP1 and non-AP STA1, non-AP STA2), data communication between APs (e.g., data communication between AP1 and AP2), and data communication between non-AP STAs (e.g., data communication between non-AP STA2 and non-AP STA3).

[0090] Access points are nodes that allow terminals (e.g., mobile phones) to access wired (or wireless) networks. They are mainly deployed in homes, buildings, and campuses, with a typical coverage radius of tens to hundreds of meters. Of course, they can also be deployed outdoors. An access point acts as a bridge connecting wired and wireless networks, its main function being to connect various wireless network clients together and then connect the wireless network to the Ethernet.

[0091] Specifically, the access point can be a terminal or network device with a WiFi chip. The network device can be a server, router, switch, bridge, computer, mobile phone, relay station, vehicle-mounted equipment, wearable device, network device in 5G network, network device in future communication network, or network device in public land mobile network (PLMN), etc. The embodiments of this application are not limited to this.

[0092] Non-AP sites can be wireless communication chips, wireless sensors, or wireless communication terminals, and can also be referred to as users, user equipment (UE), access terminals, user units, user stations, mobile stations, mobile stations, remote stations, remote terminals, mobile devices, user terminals, terminals, wireless communication equipment, user agents, or user devices. Non-AP sites can be cellular phones, cordless phones, session initiation protocol (SIP) phones, wireless local loop (WLL) stations, personal digital assistants (PDAs), handheld devices with wireless communication capabilities, computing devices or other processing devices connected to a wireless modem, in-vehicle devices, IoT devices, wearable devices, terminal devices in 5G networks, terminal devices in future communication networks, or terminal devices in PLMNs, etc., and this application embodiment does not limit this.

[0093] For example, non-AP sites can be mobile phones, tablets, set-top boxes, smart TVs, smart wearable devices, vehicle communication devices, computers, Internet of Things (IoT) nodes, sensors, smart home devices such as smart cameras, smart remote controls, smart water and electricity meters, and sensors in smart cities.

[0094] With the evolution of wireless communication technology, especially the deployment of 5G networks and the exploration of future network communication systems, the utilization of higher frequency bands (e.g., millimeter wave (mmW)) is increasing. The scarcity of spectrum resources, particularly the saturation of low-frequency bands, has prompted the industry to seek solutions in higher frequency bands to meet the demands for higher transmission rates and larger system capacity. mmW bands (e.g., frequency band 2, FB2) offer greater bandwidth and higher data transmission speeds compared to lower frequency bands (e.g., frequency band 1, FB1). FB1 and FB2 can be used in star-flash systems. However, due to the higher frequency and shorter wavelength of mmW bands, mmW signals face greater path loss and a more limited propagation range. To address these issues, millimeter wave systems have introduced narrow-beam technology and beam-switching mechanisms to enhance signal coverage and transmission efficiency.

[0095] As an example, traditional millimeter-wave hardware, such as that used in Wi-Fi and cellular networks, possesses powerful beam-switching capabilities. This hardware can complete beam switching in an extremely short period to adapt to rapidly moving scenarios or environmental changes. This rapid switching capability is primarily achieved through highly integrated antenna arrays and advanced signal processing technologies. However, the high design and manufacturing costs of this hardware limit its widespread adoption and application in the consumer market.

[0096] As an example, beam switching technology is crucial for achieving high-quality communication in millimeter-wave communication systems. Especially for high-speed mobile devices such as autonomous vehicles and high-speed trains, traditional millimeter-wave hardware can perform beam switching at extremely high speeds to maintain signal continuity and stability. Beam switching capability is achieved based on highly integrated antenna arrays, advanced signal processing algorithms, and complex control mechanisms. For instance, in Wi-Fi and cellular networks, hardware design allows beam switching to be completed within a cyclic prefix (CP) cycle, significantly improving signal flexibility and efficiency. As another example, this millimeter-wave communication system can employ techniques such as multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) and adaptive beamforming to rapidly scan and select the optimal beam direction to cope with dynamically changing communication environments.

[0097] To facilitate understanding of the embodiments of this application, some technical terms involved in the embodiments of this application will be briefly explained.

[0098] 1. Antenna Arrays and Beamforming: Millimeter-wave systems can employ large-scale multi-antenna arrays, using phase control to achieve directional transmission and reception of beams in space. This beamforming technology can concentrate signal energy in the target direction, thereby significantly improving the signal transmission distance and signal-to-noise ratio, especially under high-frequency, high-path-loss conditions, enhancing signal coverage and penetration.

[0099] 2. Signal Processing and Fast Handover: Utilizing advanced signal processing algorithms, the communication system can quickly analyze and predict the optimal timing for beam switching to minimize signal interruption and degradation in signal transmission quality during the switching process. Through intelligent algorithms, the communication system can dynamically adjust the beam direction and shape based on parameters such as current signal transmission quality, received signal strength indication (RSSI), and channel state information (CSI) to cope with rapidly changing communication environments.

[0100] 3. Control Mechanism and System Architecture: The hardware design of millimeter-wave systems includes complex control mechanisms and optimized system architectures to support high-speed beam switching. For example, by utilizing hardware accelerators and dedicated processing units, high-speed beam switching can be achieved without significantly increasing power consumption. Simultaneously, the system architecture design considers the efficient utilization of hardware resources, ensuring fast and accurate beam switching without affecting other system tasks through dynamic allocation of computing and storage resources.

[0101] However, while the aforementioned millimeter-wave beam switching technology performs excellently in improving communication quality and adaptability, its implementation flexibility may be limited, specifically manifested in the following issues:

[0102] 1. The realization of fast beam switching capability relies on highly integrated and sophisticated hardware design, such as large-scale antenna arrays and high-speed signal processors. The development and production costs of such hardware are extremely high, which limits the popularization and application of millimeter wave technology in the consumer market.

[0103] 2. The hardware resources and control mechanisms required for high-speed beam switching can lead to higher system power consumption, which may affect battery life and overall device performance for mobile devices.

[0104] 3. The implementation of high-speed beam switching technology involves complex signal processing algorithms and control mechanisms, which increases the overall complexity of the system. This not only increases the development difficulty but also affects the reliability and stability of the system.

[0105] 4. High-speed beam switching technology is difficult to widely deploy in cost-sensitive or power-sensitive application scenarios (e.g., application scenarios that require beam switching to be achieved at low cost or low power consumption).

[0106] In view of this, embodiments of this application propose a communication method and a communication device, wherein the strategy for the beam direction and / or beam switching interval of the terminal device to send and / or receive data can be determined based on the beam switching speed of the terminal device in the second frequency band, thereby enabling more flexible beam switching in the second frequency band.

[0107] The methods provided by the embodiments of this application will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The embodiments provided by this application can be applied to the scenarios shown in the above figures, and are not limited thereto.

[0108] Referring to Figure 4, as an example, Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of a communication method 400 provided in an embodiment of this application. For ease of description, the following illustrative example uses a first node (e.g., the first node is any of the network devices described above) and a second node (e.g., the second node is any of the terminal devices described above). The first node can be replaced by its constituent components (e.g., a chip, chip system, circuit, communication module, or processor), and the second node can be replaced by its constituent components (e.g., a chip, chip system, circuit, communication module, or processor). Furthermore, the steps described below as being performed by a single execution entity can also be divided into steps performed by multiple execution entities, which can be logically and / or physically separated. The method 400 shown in Figure 4 may include the following steps.

[0109] Optionally, method 400 may include S401.

[0110] S401, the first node establishes a communication link with the second node.

[0111] Specifically, the first node can establish a basic communication link with the second node, such as establishing synchronization, random access, and radio resource control (RRC) connections, thereby ensuring basic omnidirectional coverage and communication initialization.

[0112] Optionally, the first node and the second node can establish a communication link via the first frequency band. In other words, the first node and the second node can establish a communication link on the first frequency band.

[0113] As an example, the first frequency band can refer to the low frequency band, or the low band, etc. For example, the first frequency band can be frequency band 1 (FB1).

[0114] Specifically, the first node and the second node can establish a communication connection through the low-frequency band. Taking advantage of the low-frequency band's characteristics of low path loss and wide propagation range, the establishment of the communication link is easier and more stable.

[0115] It is understood that the frequency band for establishing a communication link between the first node and the second node is not limited in the embodiments of this application. For example, the establishment of a communication link between the first node and the second node in a higher frequency band is also within the protection scope of the embodiments of this application.

[0116] Optionally, method 400 may also include S402.

[0117] S402, the first node sends a request message to the second node. Correspondingly, the second node receives the request message from the first node.

[0118] Specifically, the request information can be used to request the second node's beam-switching capability in the second frequency band. In other words, the first node can query the second node's beam-switching capability; conversely, the first node can request the second node to provide feedback on its beam-switching capability.

[0119] As an example, the request information may also be called capability request information, or capability query information, etc., and its name does not limit the scope of protection of the embodiments of this application.

[0120] As an example, the second frequency band is higher than the first frequency band. That is, the second frequency band can refer to a higher frequency band, for example, the second frequency band can be the mmW band, or the second frequency band can be frequency band 2 (FB2), etc.

[0121] As an example, the beam switching capability of the second node in the second frequency band can be understood as the speed at which the second node can perform beam switching in the second frequency band. The beam switching capability can also be replaced by any of the following: hardware switching capability, beam switching speed, hardware switching speed, etc., and these names do not limit the scope of protection of the embodiments of this application.

[0122] Optionally, the first node can send a request message to the second node on the first frequency band. In other words, the first node can send a request message to the second node through the first frequency band.

[0123] Specifically, the first node sends request information to the second node via the low-frequency band. This leverages the low-frequency band's characteristics of low path loss and wide propagation range, making the transmission of request information easier and more stable.

[0124] It is understood that the frequency band for transmitting request information is not limited in the embodiments of this application. For example, the first node sending request information through a higher frequency band is also within the protection scope of the embodiments of this application.

[0125] S410, the first node receives capability information from the second node. Accordingly, the second node sends the capability information back to the first node.

[0126] The capability information indicates the beam-switching capability of the second node in the second frequency band as described in S402. In other words, the capability information includes the beam-switching capability of the second node in the second frequency band; that is, the second node can report its beam-switching capability to the first node. For example, the second node can report its beam-switching capability to the first node in response to a request received in S402. Alternatively, under specific conditions, the second node can report its beam-switching capability to the first node.

[0127] It is understood that the embodiments of this application do not limit the triggering conditions for the second node to send capability information to the first node.

[0128] As an example, capability information can also be called frequency capability information, high-frequency band capability information, or FB2 capability information, etc., and its name does not limit the scope of protection of the embodiments of this application.

[0129] Optionally, the first node receives capability information from the second node on the first frequency band. Correspondingly, the second node transmits capability information to the first node on the first frequency band. In other words, the first node and the second node can transmit capability information through the first frequency band.

[0130] Specifically, the first and second nodes transmit capability information via low-frequency bands, which can take advantage of the low path loss and wide propagation range of low-frequency bands to make the transmission of capability information easier and more stable.

[0131] It is understood that the frequency band for transmitting capability information is not limited in the embodiments of this application. For example, the second node transmitting capability information through a higher frequency band is also within the protection scope of the embodiments of this application.

[0132] As an example, the second node can indicate its beam switching capability in the second frequency band through a field in the capability information. This field can be called a beam switching capability field, or a minimum beam switching interval field, or a minimum beam switching speed field, or a maximum beam switching speed field, etc., and its name does not limit the scope of protection of the embodiments of this application.

[0133] The following describes two possible ways, Method 1 and Method 2, to indicate the beam switching capability of the second node in the second frequency band.

[0134] Method 1: This field can indicate beam switching capability based on the number of symbols in the beam switching interval. In other words, this field can directly indicate the minimum number of time-domain symbols between two beam switchings for the second node; in other words, this field can indicate the shortest beam switching interval for the second node with a granularity of one time-domain symbol; in other words, this field can be an integer type field, indicating the shortest beam switching interval with a non-negative integer.

[0135] Specifically, in this method, the field is used to directly indicate the number of symbols in the beam switching interval. The granularity of the beam switching capability indication is small, and there are many selectable values ​​for the field. Thus, the second node can more accurately indicate the beam switching capability through this field.

[0136] As an example, this field can indicate a non-negative integer representing the minimum number of interval symbols between two beam switchings for the second node.

[0137] For example, this field can indicate an integer N1 between 0 and 65535, used to represent the minimum time-domain interval N1 between two beam switchings of the second node.

[0138] For example, if N1 = 65535, then the second node has a minimum interval of 65535 time-domain symbols between two beam switchings; in other words, the fastest switching speed supported by the second node is 15.625 / 12*65536us = 85.333ms.

[0139] It is understood that the number of symbols indicating the beam switching interval in Method 1 is only an example. The number of symbols can also be replaced by the number of other time units, such as the number of cyclic shift lengths, etc. This application embodiment does not limit this.

[0140] Method 2: This field can indicate a first time interval, which is one of multiple candidate beam switching intervals. In other words, this field can indicate the shortest time interval between two beam switchings for the second node from a set; in other words, this field can indicate one of multiple preset beam switching intervals; in other words, this field can be an enumerated type field, indicating one beam switching interval from a finite number of selectable beam switching intervals.

[0141] As an example, multiple candidate beam switching intervals can be understood as a set, where the elements of the set are candidate beam switching intervals. These candidate beam switching intervals can also be referred to as preset beam switching intervals, or configured beam switching intervals, etc., and their names do not limit the scope of protection of this application embodiment.

[0142] As one possible implementation, multiple candidate beam switching intervals may include at least two of the following: a cyclic prefix; a time-domain symbol; two time-domain symbols; four time-domain symbols; a transmission time interval; or, a subframe.

[0143] Specifically, in this method, the field can indicate the number / index of the first time interval among multiple candidate beam switching intervals, and the first time interval can be indicated from multiple candidate beam switching intervals based on the number / index.

[0144] For example, set #1 (an example of a set consisting of multiple candidate beam switching intervals) may include: a cyclic prefix (numbered 0); a time-domain symbol (numbered 1); two time-domain symbols (numbered 2); four time-domain symbols (numbered 3); a transmission time interval (TTI) (numbered 4); and a subframe (numbered 5). The field can then indicate the first time interval from set #1 using 3 bits. For example, a field of 001 indicates a time-domain symbol, and a number of 100 indicates a TTI.

[0145] It is understood that the above method 1 or method 2 is only an example. That is, fields indicating beam switching capability in other ways are also within the protection scope of this application embodiment.

[0146] As an example, the capability information described above may also include any one or more other fields. This application embodiment does not limit whether the capability information includes other fields or the number of other fields included.

[0147] 1. Number of wide beams, for example, the number of wide beams that a second node in the uplink or downlink can achieve. This field can be indicated by a positive integer greater than or equal to 0 and less than or equal to M. Where M is a positive integer, for example, M equals 4, or M = 16, or M = 64, etc.

[0148] 2. Number of narrow beams, for example, the number of narrow beams that a second node in the uplink or downlink can implement. This field can be indicated by a positive integer greater than or equal to 0 and less than or equal to N. Where N is a positive integer, for example, N = 16, or N = 64, etc.

[0149] 3. Beamforming capability, for example, whether the second node in the uplink or downlink can perform beamforming. This field can be indicated by enumerated values, for example, by using 1 bit to indicate whether beamforming is supported.

[0150] As an example, the second node can support data reception and data transmission in the second frequency band, which can be achieved through the interaction process between the first node and the second node described above. In this process, the first node collects the capability information of the second node through the first frequency band, which includes detailed configuration of beam switching capabilities.

[0151] As an example, the aforementioned capability information may include first information and second information. The first information may indicate the beam switching capability of the second node to receive data in the second frequency band, and the second information may indicate the beam switching capability of the second node to transmit data in the second frequency band.

[0152] As an example, the beam switching capability of the second node in receiving data can be replaced by any of the following: the beam switching capability of the second node in receiving signals, or the beam switching capability of the second node when transmitting data downlink, etc.

[0153] As an example, the beam switching capability of the second node transmitting data can be replaced by any of the following: the beam switching capability of the second node transmitting signals, or the beam switching capability of the second node when transmitting data uplink, etc.

[0154] Specifically, the capability information transmitted by the second node can include its beam switching capabilities for receiving and transmitting data; these two capabilities may be the same or different. The following sections will describe these two scenarios using cases 1 and 2 respectively.

[0155] Scenario 1: The second node has the same beam switching capability for receiving and transmitting data in the second frequency band. In other words, the hardware beam switching capability of the second node remains consistent during data transmission and reception in the second frequency band.

[0156] As an example, in case 1, S410 can be understood as the second node reporting the unified beam switching capability for receiving and transmitting data, or the second node reporting the fastest unified beam switching speed for receiving and transmitting data, etc.

[0157] As an example, if the beam switching capabilities for receiving and transmitting data are the same, the first and second information can be the same field. In other words, the second node can indicate its beam switching capabilities for receiving and transmitting data through a single piece of information / a single field.

[0158] Specifically, the second node is designed to ensure that its transceiver hardware operates at the same speed during beam switching. This involves fine-tuning the second node's hardware design to maximize and maintain consistent beam switching speed during data transmission and reception. This design effectively supports communication scenarios requiring a balance between transmit and receive performance, such as real-time video transmission and high-speed data exchange. It ensures that the second node can quickly adapt to environmental changes and perform beam switching, whether receiving or sending data, thereby guaranteeing the continuity and efficiency of data transmission.

[0159] For example, combining with Method 1 above, assuming the second node indicates 99 through a field, then the minimum number of time-domain symbols required between two beam switchings when the second node is transmitting and receiving data is 99. Alternatively, combining with Method 2 above, assuming the multiple candidate beam switching intervals consist of set #1 from Method 2, and the second node indicates 001 through a field, then the minimum time-domain symbol required between two beam switchings when the second node is transmitting and receiving data is one.

[0160] Scenario 2: The second node has different beam switching capabilities for receiving and transmitting data in the second frequency band. In other words, the hardware beam switching capabilities of the second node remain different during the data transmission and reception process in the second frequency band.

[0161] As an example, in case 2, S410 can be understood as the second node reporting detailed differences in the beam switching capabilities of received and transmitted data, or the second node reporting the fastest beam switching speed for each of the received and transmitted data.

[0162] Specifically, the detailed differences in the beam switching capabilities of the second node in receiving and transmitting data can provide the first node with more comprehensive information to further optimize the subsequent beam switching strategy (e.g., the beam switching strategy determined by the first node in S411 below).

[0163] As an example, when the beam switching capabilities for receiving and transmitting data differ, the first and second information can be different fields. In other words, the second node can indicate its beam switching capabilities for receiving and transmitting data using two pieces of information / two fields respectively.

[0164] Specifically, the second node is designed to allow its transmit and receive links to have different beam switching speeds, thereby adapting to hardware characteristics and different application scenarios, improving the overall flexibility and efficiency of the system. This differentiated management of the transmit and receive links not only enhances the ability to address hardware challenges of varying costs but also promotes the application of the solution described in this application in a wider range of scenarios, such as high-speed mobile scenarios and dense user scenarios, further enhancing the overall system performance and user experience. Furthermore, this design can manage the differentiated beam switching capabilities through software algorithms and hardware configuration. When the second node provides feedback on capability information, it can clearly distinguish the beam switching speeds of the transmit and receive hardware, allowing the first node to optimize its beam switching strategy accordingly, ensuring efficient and stable communication.

[0165] For example, the second node uses fields #1 and #2 (two different fields in one example) to indicate its beam switching capabilities for receiving and transmitting data, respectively. Combining this with Method 1 above, assuming field #1 indicates 99 and field #2 indicates 199, then the minimum time-domain symbol interval between two beam switches when the second node receives data is 99, and the minimum time-domain symbol interval between two beam switches when the second node transmits data is 199. Alternatively, combining this with Method 2 above, assuming multiple candidate beam switching intervals are composed of set #1 from Method 2, with field #1 indicating 001 and field #2 indicating 100, then the minimum interval between two beam switches when the second node receives data is one time-domain symbol, and the minimum interval between two beam switches when the second node transmits data is one TTI.

[0166] It is understood that the above examples are merely possible illustrations, and the embodiments of this application do not limit how one or two different fields specifically indicate the beam switching capability of the second node in receiving and transmitting data.

[0167] Optionally, method 400 may also include S411.

[0168] S411, the first node determines the beam switching strategy based on the aforementioned capability information. In other words, the first node determines the beam switching strategy of the first node and the second node in the second frequency band based on the capability information; in other words, the first node determines the beam switching strategy of the first node and the second node in the second frequency band based on the beam switching capability of the second node.

[0169] The term "determine beam switching strategy" can also be replaced by "configure beam switching strategy" or "select beam switching strategy," and the name is not limited to the embodiments of this application.

[0170] As an example, a beam switching strategy can be understood as the beam switching strategy of the first node and the second node in the second frequency band. The beam switching strategy may include the beam direction and / or beam switching interval for communication between the first node and the second node in the second frequency band. In other words, the beam direction and / or beam switching interval for communication between the first node and the second node in the second frequency band are determined based on the beam switching capability.

[0171] Specifically, when the second node has strong beam switching capability in the second frequency band, the first node can determine a shorter beam switching interval and more candidate beam directions; conversely, when the second node has weak beam switching capability in the second frequency band, the first node can determine a longer beam switching interval and fewer candidate beam directions. Based on this, the beam switching strategy can be adapted to the hardware characteristics of the second node.

[0172] For example, taking Case 1 above as an example, in Case 1, the uplink and downlink beam switching strategies can be consistent. Assuming that the minimum number of time-domain symbols between two beam switchings is 99 for both the second node transmitting and receiving data, the beam switching strategy can include 8 candidate beam directions and a beam switching interval of 100 time-domain symbols. Assuming that the minimum number of time-domain symbols between two beam switchings is 199 for both the second node transmitting and receiving data, since the beam switching capability of the second node is weakened, the beam switching strategy can include 4 candidate beam directions and a beam switching interval of 200 time-domain symbols.

[0173] It is understood that the above example using case 1 is only an example. In case 2, considering the difference in beam switching speed between the transmitting and receiving links of the second node, the uplink and downlink beam switching strategies can be different to ensure that the beam switching strategy can match the hardware characteristics of the second node to the greatest extent. However, the design rules of its beam switching strategy are similar to those in case 1, and will not be repeated in the embodiments of this application.

[0174] It is understood that the embodiments of this application do not limit S411 to a step that must be performed in method 400. For example, the first node communicates with the second node directly according to the capability information of the second node and the corresponding beam switching strategy based on pre-configured rules. Correspondingly, after the second node sends the capability information, it communicates with the first node directly according to the capability information and the corresponding beam switching strategy based on the pre-configured rules.

[0175] Optionally, method 400 may also include S412.

[0176] S412, the first node sends a beam switching strategy to the second node. Correspondingly, the second node receives the beam switching strategy. In other words, the first node can configure the beam switching strategy for the second node; in other words, the first node can configure the beam direction and / or beam switching interval for communication between the first node and the second node in the second frequency band.

[0177] S420, based on capability information, the first node communicates with the second node in the second frequency band. In other words, the strategy for the first and second nodes to communicate in the second frequency band is determined based on the beam switching capability of the second node in the second frequency band; in other words, the first and second nodes transmit data in the second frequency band based on a first strategy, which is determined based on capability information.

[0178] As an example, the strategy can be determined and configured by the first node, or it can be determined based on pre-configured rules.

[0179] Specifically, based on the above strategy, the first and second nodes can perform efficient data transmission on the second frequency band, taking advantage of the large bandwidth and narrow beam, while considering the limitations of the second node's beam switching speed, thus optimizing data transmission efficiency.

[0180] Specifically, when the second node has a strong beam switching capability in the second frequency band, the first node and the second node can communicate using a shorter beam switching interval in the second frequency band; when the second node has a weak beam switching capability in the second frequency band, the first node and the second node can communicate using a longer beam switching interval in the second frequency band.

[0181] It is understood that the examples can be directly inferred from the examples in S411, and the embodiments of this application will not be described again.

[0182] As an example, the first node communicates with the second node in the second frequency band, which may specifically include uplink and / or downlink communication. In other words, the second node can receive data from the first node in the second frequency band, and / or the second node can send data to the first node in the second frequency band.

[0183] As an example, the first node and the second node can perform beam switching on the second frequency band at the second node's highest beam switching speed. In other words, the first node and the second node can perform beam switching on the second frequency band at the second node's minimum beam switching interval.

[0184] Specifically, combining the scenarios 1 and 2 described above, the capability information transmitted by the second node may include the beam switching capability of the second node for receiving and transmitting data. If the two are the same or different, the strategies for the first node to conduct uplink and / or downlink communication with the second node in the second frequency band may also be different.

[0185] As an example, when the beam switching capabilities for receiving and transmitting data are the same, the beam direction and beam switching interval for uplink and downlink communication are the same. In other words, when the second node transmits and receives data in the second frequency band, it can use the same beam switching interval and the same candidate beam direction.

[0186] As another example, when the beam switching capabilities for receiving and transmitting data differ, the beam directions and / or beam switching intervals for uplink and downlink communication will also differ. In other words, when the second node transmits and receives data in the second frequency band, it can employ different beam switching intervals or different candidate beam directions.

[0187] Specifically, when the first node and the second node communicate on the second frequency band, they can dynamically adjust the beam direction and switching time to achieve different beam switching intervals or different candidate beam directions. This adapts to the different hardware beam switching speeds of the second node when transmitting and receiving data, ensuring the continuity and efficiency of data transmission, while fully utilizing the high data transmission rate advantage brought by the narrow beam in the second frequency band.

[0188] For example #1, assuming that the second node has a minimum number of time-domain symbols between two beam switchings when sending and receiving data, and the first node in S420 has 8 candidate beam directions for uplink and downlink communication with the second node in the second frequency band, with a beam switching interval of 99.

[0189] Example #2: Assume that when the second node is transmitting data, the minimum number of time-domain symbols between two beam switchings is 99, and when the second node is receiving data, the minimum number of time-domain symbols between two beam switchings is 199. In S420, the first node has 8 beam directions for uplink communication with the second node in the second frequency band, with a beam switching interval of 99; the first node has 4 beam directions for downlink communication with the second node in the second frequency band, with a beam switching interval of 199.

[0190] It is understood that when the beam switching capabilities for receiving and transmitting data are different, the beam direction and beam switching interval for uplink and downlink communication can also be the same, and this application does not limit this. For example, in example #2 above, communication between the first node and the second node can also be achieved in the following way: the first node has 4 candidate beam directions for both uplink and downlink communication with the second node in the second frequency band, and the beam switching interval is 199 for both.

[0191] It should also be understood that the specific numerical values ​​in the examples of this application are used to help readers better understand the technical solutions of this application, and these numerical values ​​are not intended to limit the embodiments of this application.

[0192] Optionally, the solution provided in this application embodiment can be applied to a StarScan mmW communication system, such as a communication system that combines a low-frequency band (first band, for example, FB1) and a high-frequency band (second band, for example, FB2).

[0193] Specifically, in this architecture, the low-frequency band is responsible for providing omnidirectional coverage. It is used to initialize connections, such as establishing synchronization, random access, and RRC connections to ensure basic communication links. It is also used to collect millimeter-wave capability information of the second node, including beam switching capabilities. Furthermore, the communication system adjusts the beam management strategy of the high-frequency band based on the capability information to adapt to the hardware characteristics of the second node. The high-frequency band can utilize its large bandwidth and narrow beam characteristics to support higher transmission rates and capacities.

[0194] Understandably, this system architecture can leverage the beam-switching capability reported by the second node to adapt to consumer-grade hardware of varying costs, thereby improving the system's flexibility and efficiency.

[0195] The method provided by the embodiments of this application has been described in detail above with reference to FIG4. The apparatus provided by the embodiments of this application will be described in detail below with reference to FIGS. 5 to 7. It should be understood that the description of the apparatus embodiments corresponds to the description of the method embodiments; therefore, any content not described in detail can be referred to the method embodiments above, and for the sake of brevity, will not be repeated here.

[0196] Referring to Figure 5, which is a schematic diagram of a communication device 500 provided in an embodiment of this application, the communication device 500 includes a transceiver unit 510 and a processing unit 520. The transceiver unit 510 can be used to implement corresponding communication functions. The transceiver unit 510 can also be referred to as a communication interface or a communication unit. The processing unit 520 can be used to perform processing, such as determining information bits.

[0197] Optionally, the device 500 may further include a storage unit, which can be used to store instructions and / or data, and the processing unit 520 can read the instructions and / or data in the storage unit to enable the device to implement the aforementioned method embodiments.

[0198] In one possible design, the device 500 can be the first node in the foregoing embodiments, and the device 500 can implement the steps or processes corresponding to the first node executed in the above method embodiments. Specifically, the transceiver unit 510 can be used to perform transceiver-related operations (such as sending or receiving data or messages) of the first node in the above method embodiments, and the processing unit 520 can be used to perform processing-related operations of the first node in the above method embodiments, or operations other than transceiver (such as operations other than sending or receiving data or messages).

[0199] One possible implementation is that the transceiver unit 510 is used to receive capability information from the second node on the first frequency band; the transceiver unit 510 is also used to communicate with the second node on the second frequency band based on the capability information; wherein the capability information indicates the beam switching capability of the second node on the second frequency band, and the second frequency band is higher than the first frequency band.

[0200] In another possible design, the device 500 can be the second node in the foregoing embodiments, which can implement the steps or processes corresponding to the second node in the above method embodiments. Specifically, the transceiver unit 510 can be used to perform transceiver-related operations (such as sending or receiving data or messages) of the second node in the above method embodiments, and the processing unit 520 can be used to perform processing-related operations of the second node in the above method embodiments, or operations other than transceiver (such as operations other than sending or receiving data or messages).

[0201] One possible implementation is that the transceiver unit 510 is used to send capability information to the first node on the first frequency band; the transceiver unit 510 is also used to communicate with the first node on the second frequency band based on the capability information; wherein the capability information indicates the beam switching capability of the second node in the second frequency band, which is higher than the first frequency band.

[0202] It should be understood that the specific process of each unit performing the above-mentioned corresponding steps has been described in detail in the above method embodiments, and will not be repeated here for the sake of brevity.

[0203] It should also be understood that the device 500 here is embodied in the form of a functional unit. The term "unit" here can refer to an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), electronic circuitry, a processor (e.g., a shared processor, a proprietary processor, or a group processor, etc.) and memory for executing one or more software or firmware programs, integrated logic circuitry, and / or other suitable components supporting the described functions. In an alternative example, those skilled in the art will understand that the device 500 can specifically be the communication device in the above embodiments, and can be used to execute the various processes and / or steps corresponding to the communication device in the above method embodiments; to avoid repetition, these will not be described again here.

[0204] The apparatus 500 of each of the above-described schemes has the function of implementing the corresponding steps performed by the communication device (such as the first node or the second node) in the above-described methods. The function can be implemented in hardware or by hardware executing corresponding software. The hardware or software includes one or more modules corresponding to the above functions; for example, the transceiver unit can be replaced by a transceiver (e.g., the transmitting unit in the transceiver unit can be replaced by a transmitter, and the receiving unit in the transceiver unit can be replaced by a receiver), and other units, such as processing units, can be replaced by processors, each executing the transceiver operations and related processing operations in the respective method embodiments.

[0205] In addition, the transceiver unit 510 may also be a transceiver circuit (for example, it may include a receiving circuit and a transmitting circuit), and the processing unit may be a processing circuit.

[0206] It should be noted that the device in Figure 5 can be the communication device (such as the first node or the second node) in the foregoing embodiments, or it can be a chip or a chip system, such as a system on a chip (SoC). The transceiver unit can be an input / output circuit or a communication interface; the processing unit is a processor, microprocessor, or integrated circuit integrated on the chip. No limitations are imposed here.

[0207] Referring to Figure 6, as an example, Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of another communication device 600 provided in an embodiment of this application. The device 600 includes a processor 610, which is coupled to a memory 620. The memory 620 is used to store computer programs or instructions and / or data. The processor 610 is used to execute the computer programs or instructions stored in the memory 620, or to read the data stored in the memory 620, to perform the methods in the above method embodiments.

[0208] Optionally, there may be one or more processors 610.

[0209] Optionally, the memory 620 may be one or more.

[0210] Alternatively, the memory 620 can be integrated with the processor 610, or it can be set separately.

[0211] Optionally, as shown in FIG6, the device 600 further includes a transceiver 630 for receiving and / or transmitting signals. For example, the processor 610 is used to control the transceiver 630 to receive and / or transmit signals.

[0212] As an example, processor 610 may have the functions of processing unit 520 shown in FIG5, memory 620 may have the functions of storage unit, and transceiver 630 may have the functions of transceiver unit 510 shown in FIG5.

[0213] As one approach, the device 600 is used to implement the operations performed by the communication device (such as a first node or a second node) in the various method embodiments described above.

[0214] For example, processor 610 is used to execute computer programs or instructions stored in memory 620 to implement the relevant operations of the communication device in the various method embodiments described above.

[0215] It should be understood that the processor mentioned in the embodiments of this application can be a central processing unit (CPU), or other general-purpose processors, digital signal processors (DSPs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), or other programmable logic devices, discrete gate or transistor logic devices, discrete hardware components, etc. A general-purpose processor can be a microprocessor or any conventional processor.

[0216] It should also be understood that the memory mentioned in the embodiments of this application can be volatile memory and / or non-volatile memory. Non-volatile memory can be read-only memory (ROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), or flash memory. Volatile memory can be random access memory (RAM). For example, RAM can be used as an external cache. By way of example and not limitation, RAM includes the following forms: static random access memory (SRAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), synchronous dynamic random access memory (SDRAM), double data rate synchronous dynamic random access memory (DDR SDRAM), enhanced synchronous dynamic random access memory (ESDRAM), synchronous linked dynamic random access memory (SLDRAM), and direct rambus RAM (DR RAM).

[0217] It should be noted that when the processor is a general-purpose processor, DSP, ASIC, FPGA, or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic device, or discrete hardware component, the memory (storage module) can be integrated into the processor.

[0218] It should also be noted that the memory described herein is intended to include, but is not limited to, these and any other suitable types of memory.

[0219] Referring to Figure 7, as an example, Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of a chip system 700 provided in an embodiment of this application. The chip system 700 (or may also be referred to as a processing system) includes logic circuitry 710 and an input / output interface 720.

[0220] The logic circuit 710 can be a processing circuit in the chip system 700. The logic circuit 710 can be coupled to a memory unit, calling instructions from the memory unit, enabling the chip system 700 to implement the methods and functions of the embodiments of this application. The input / output interface 720 can be an input / output circuit in the chip system 700, outputting processed information or inputting data or signaling information to be processed into the chip system 700 for processing.

[0221] As one approach, the chip system 700 is used to implement the operations performed by the communication device (such as the first node or the second node) in the various method embodiments described above.

[0222] For example, logic circuit 710 is used to implement processing-related operations performed by communication devices (such as the first node or the second node) in the above method embodiments; input / output interface 720 is used to implement sending or receiving-related operations performed by communication devices (such as the first node or the second node) in the above method embodiments.

[0223] This application also provides a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program or instructions for implementing the methods executed by a communication device (such as a first node or a second node) in the above-described method embodiments. For example, when the computer program or instructions are run on the communication device, the communication device (such as a first node or a second node) causes the communication device to execute the above-described methods (such as method 400).

[0224] This application also provides a computer program product comprising instructions that, when executed by a computer, implement the methods described above, which are performed by a communication device (such as a first node or a second node). For example, when the computer program or instructions are run on the communication device, the communication device (such as a first node or a second node) performs the methods described above (such as method 400).

[0225] This application also provides a communication system, which includes a first node and a second node in the embodiments described above. For example, the system includes the first node and the second node in the embodiment of FIG4.

[0226] The explanations and beneficial effects of the relevant contents in any of the devices provided above can be found in the corresponding method embodiments provided above, and will not be repeated here.

[0227] In the several embodiments provided in this application, it should be understood that the disclosed apparatus and methods can be implemented in other ways. For example, the apparatus embodiments described above are merely illustrative; for instance, the division of units is only a logical functional division, and in actual implementation, there may be other division methods. For example, multiple units or components may be combined or integrated into another system, or some features may be ignored or not executed. Furthermore, the mutual coupling or direct coupling or communication connection shown or discussed may be through some interfaces, and the indirect coupling or communication connection of apparatus or units may be electrical, mechanical, or other forms.

[0228] In the above embodiments, implementation can be achieved entirely or partially through software, hardware, firmware, or any combination thereof. When implemented using software, it can be implemented entirely or partially in the form of a computer program product. The computer program product includes one or more computer instructions. When the computer program instructions are loaded and executed on a computer, all or part of the processes or functions described in the embodiments of this application are generated. The computer can be a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, a computer network, or other programmable device. For example, the computer can be a personal computer, a server, or a network device, etc. The computer instructions can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium or transmitted from one computer-readable storage medium to another. For example, the computer instructions can be transmitted from one website, computer, server, or data center to another website, computer, server, or data center via wired (e.g., coaxial cable, fiber optic, digital subscriber line (DSL)) or wireless (e.g., infrared, wireless, microwave, etc.) means. The computer-readable storage medium can be any available medium that a computer can access or a data storage device such as a server or data center that integrates one or more available media. The available media can be magnetic media (e.g., floppy disks, hard disks, magnetic tapes), optical media (e.g., DVDs), or semiconductor media (e.g., solid-state disks, SSDs). For example, the aforementioned available media include, but are not limited to, USB flash drives, portable hard drives, read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic disks, or optical disks, and other media capable of storing program code.

[0229] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A communication method, characterized in that, Applied to the first node, the method includes: On the first frequency band, receive capability information from the second node; Based on the aforementioned capability information, communication is established with the second node in the second frequency band; The capability information indicates the beam switching capability of the second node in the second frequency band, which is higher than the first frequency band.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The capability information includes first information and second information. The first information indicates the beam switching capability of the second node in receiving data on the second frequency band, and the second information indicates the beam switching capability of the second node in transmitting data on the second frequency band. When the beam switching capabilities of the received data and the transmitted data are the same, the first information and the second information are the same field; When the beam switching capabilities of the received data and the transmitted data are different, the first information and the second information are different fields.

3. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that, The field indicates beam switching capability based on the number of symbols in the beam switching interval; or, the field indicates a first time interval, which is one of a plurality of candidate beam switching intervals.

4. The method according to claim 3, characterized in that, The plurality of candidate beam switching intervals includes at least two of the following: A cyclic prefix; A time-domain symbol; Two time-domain symbols; Four time-domain symbols; One transmission time interval; or, A subframe.

5. The method according to any one of claims 2 to 4, characterized in that, The communication includes uplink and / or downlink communication. When the beam switching capabilities of the received data and the transmitted data are the same, the beam direction and beam switching interval of the uplink communication and the downlink communication are the same; When the beam switching capabilities of the received data and the transmitted data are different, the beam direction and / or beam switching interval of the uplink communication and the downlink communication are different.

6. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, The beam direction and / or beam switching interval for communication are determined based on the beam switching capability.

7. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, Also includes: On the first frequency band, a request message is sent to the second node, requesting the second node's beam switching capability on the second frequency band.

8. A communication method, characterized in that, Applied to the second node, the method includes: On the first frequency band, send capability information to the first node; Based on the aforementioned capability information, communication is established with the first node in the second frequency band; The capability information indicates the beam switching capability of the second node in the second frequency band, which is higher than the first frequency band.

9. The method according to claim 8, characterized in that, The capability information includes first information and second information. The first information indicates the beam switching capability of the second node in receiving data on the second frequency band, and the second information indicates the beam switching capability of the second node in transmitting data on the second frequency band. When the beam switching capabilities of the received data and the transmitted data are the same, the first information and the second information are the same field; When the beam switching capabilities of the received data and the transmitted data are different, the first information and the second information are different fields.

10. The method according to claim 9, characterized in that, The field indicates beam switching capability based on the number of symbols in the beam switching interval; or, the field indicates a first time interval, which is one of a plurality of candidate beam switching intervals.

11. The method according to claim 10, characterized in that, The plurality of candidate beam switching intervals includes at least two of the following: A cyclic prefix; A time-domain symbol; Two time-domain symbols; Four time-domain symbols; One transmission time interval; or, A subframe.

12. The method according to any one of claims 9 to 11, characterized in that, The communication includes uplink and / or downlink communication. When the beam switching capabilities of the received data and the transmitted data are the same, the beam direction and beam switching interval of the uplink communication and the downlink communication are the same; When the beam switching capabilities of the received data and the transmitted data are different, the beam direction and / or beam switching interval of the uplink communication and the downlink communication are different.

13. The method according to any one of claims 8 to 12, characterized in that, The beam direction and / or beam switching interval for communication are determined based on the beam switching capability.

14. The method according to any one of claims 8 to 13, characterized in that, Also includes: On the first frequency band, a request message is received from the first node, the request message requesting the second node's beam switching capability on the second frequency band.

15. A communication device, characterized in that, Includes modules or units for performing the method according to any one of claims 1 to 14.

16. A communication device, characterized in that, Includes a processor for executing computer programs or instructions to cause the apparatus to perform the method of any one of claims 1 to 14.

17. The apparatus according to claim 16, characterized in that, The device also includes a memory and / or a communication interface. The memory, coupled to the processor, is used to store the computer program or instructions; The communication interface is coupled to the processor and is used for inputting and / or outputting information.

18. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The computer-readable storage medium stores a computer program or instructions that, when executed on a communication device, cause the communication device to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 14.

19. A computer program product, characterized in that, The computer program product includes a computer program or instructions that, when executed on a communication device, cause the communication device to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 14.

Images