CN116367191A

CN116367191A - Communication method and device

Info

Publication number: CN116367191A
Application number: CN202310160219.7A
Authority: CN
Inventors: 胡锦娜; 于海凤; 马川
Original assignee: Huawei Technologies Co Ltd
Current assignee: Huawei Technologies Co Ltd
Priority date: 2023-02-16
Filing date: 2023-02-16
Publication date: 2023-06-30
Also published as: WO2024169478A1

Abstract

A communication method and device relate to the technical field of communication and provide a high-efficiency C-DRX configuration mode which adapts to dynamic activation/deactivation of cell DTX configuration. In one manner, the network device pre-configures an association relationship between cell DTX configuration and C-DRX configuration for the terminal device, including indicating the associated C-DRX configuration in the cell DTX configuration, or indicating the applicable cell DTX configuration in the C-DRX configuration, or indicating an identity of the C-DRX configuration and an identity of the associated cell DTX configuration. In another approach, the applied C-DRX configuration is indicated in an activate/switch/deactivate instruction. The terminal device may even adjust the applied C-DRX configuration after receiving the activation/handover signaling.

Description

Communication method and device

Technical Field

The present disclosure relates to the field of communications technologies, and in particular, to a communication method and apparatus.

Background

As the energy consumption of network devices increases continuously, the energy consumption of network devices has become one of the main reasons for the high operating cost of operators. Common ways of power saving for network devices include taking different depths of shutdown techniques in the time domain for the time of data transmission. For example, the cell discontinuous transmission (cell discontinuous transmission, cell DTX) technique enables the network to perform downlink transmission with the terminal device only in a specified period of time, and the other periods of time do not perform downlink transmission, so that a corresponding shutdown technique can be adopted to achieve energy saving of the network device.

The terminal device may employ connected-discontinuous reception (C-DRX) in order to achieve power saving. When employing C-DRX, the terminal device periodically enters a sleep state (sleep mode) while in an inactive period. The terminal equipment does not monitor the physical downlink control channel (physical downlink control channel, PDCCH) in the inactive period, and wakes up (wake up) from the sleep state when monitoring is needed, and is in the active period, so that the terminal equipment can achieve the purpose of saving electricity.

There is currently no efficient dynamic activation/deactivation C-DRX configuration that adapts cell DTX configuration.

Disclosure of Invention

The embodiment of the application provides a communication method and a communication device, which are used for providing an efficient C-DRX configuration mode which adapts to dynamic activation/deactivation of cell DTX configuration.

In a first aspect, embodiments of the present application provide a first communication method, which may be performed by a terminal device, or by another device including a function of the terminal device, or by a chip system (or chip) or other functional module, which is capable of implementing a function of the terminal device, where the chip system or functional module is provided in the terminal device, for example. The following is performed by the terminal device as an example in a method comprising: the terminal equipment receives first configuration information from the network equipment, wherein the first configuration information is used for indicating the association information of the discontinuous transmission DTX configuration of the first cell and the first connection state-discontinuous reception C-DRX configuration (or is used for indicating the association relation of the discontinuous transmission DTX configuration of the first cell and the first connection state-discontinuous reception C-DRX configuration); receiving first signaling from a network device, the first signaling being used to indicate activation of the first cell DTX configuration; activating the first cell DTX configuration; and applying the first C-DRX configuration according to the first configuration information.

In the application, the network device configures the association relation between the cell DTX configuration and the C-DRX configuration to the terminal device in advance, so that the terminal device can determine the C-DRX configuration which can be applied under the condition of activating the cell DTX configuration according to the pre-configured association relation under the condition that the terminal device receives the condition that the network device indicates to activate the cell DTX configuration. Thereby realizing the rapid adjustment of the applied C-DRX configuration when the cell DTX configuration is activated.

In one possible implementation, the period of activation period of the first cell DTX configuration indication comprises a period of wake-up time (On Duration) of the first C-DRX configuration indication.

In one possible implementation, receiving first configuration information from a network device includes:

the terminal device receives the first configuration information from the central unit CU of the network device. For example, the CU may send the first configuration information to the terminal device through an RRC message.

In one possible implementation, applying the first C-DRX configuration includes: applying the first C-DRX configuration while activating the first cell DTX configuration; or after activating the first cell DTX configuration, applying the first C-DRX configuration at a first point in time, where the first point in time is specified by a protocol or the first point in time is carried in the first configuration information; or after the first cell DTX configuration is activated, delaying the first time period and then applying the first C-DRX configuration; the first duration is specified by a protocol or the first duration is carried in the first configuration information. So that the terminal device can effectively determine the occasion of applying the C-DRX configuration.

In one possible implementation manner, the first configuration information is used for indicating the association information of the first cell discontinuous transmission DTX configuration and the first connection state-discontinuous reception C-DRX configuration, and includes: the first configuration information comprises a first cell DTX configuration, and the first cell DTX configuration comprises the first C-DRX configuration or an identification of the first C-DRX configuration; or the first configuration information comprises a first C-DRX configuration, the first C-DRX configuration comprises at least one cell DTX configuration or identifiers respectively corresponding to the at least one cell DTX configuration, and the at least one cell DTX configuration comprises the first cell DTX configuration; or the first configuration information comprises the identification of the first C-DRX configuration and the identification corresponding to at least one cell DTX configuration respectively associated with the identification of the first C-DRX configuration, wherein the identification corresponding to the at least one cell DTX configuration respectively comprises the identification of the first cell DTX configuration. In one manner, the network device indicates, through the first cell DTX configuration, a first C-DRX configuration applied by the first cell DTX configuration in an active state, so that the terminal device can quickly adjust the C-DRX configuration of the terminal device in the case of activating the cell DTX configuration. In another manner, the network device indicates, through the first C-DRX configuration, one or more cell DTX configurations used by the first C-DRX configuration, so that the terminal device can quickly adjust the C-DRX configuration of the terminal device if the cell DTX configuration is activated. In yet another manner, the network device pre-configures an identity of the C-DRX configuration and an identity of the associated cell DTX configuration.

In one possible implementation, the period of activation period of each cell DTX configuration indication in the at least one cell DTX configuration comprises a period of wake up time (On Duration) of the first C-DRX configuration indication.

In a possible implementation manner, in a case that the first configuration information includes an identification of the first C-DRX configuration, the method further includes: the terminal equipment receives a plurality of C-DRX configurations from the network equipment and identifiers respectively corresponding to the plurality of C-DRX configurations, wherein the plurality of C-DRX configurations comprise the first C-DRX configuration; applying the first C-DRX configuration according to the first configuration information, comprising: and applying a first C-DRX configuration corresponding to the identification of the first C-DRX configuration in the plurality of C-DRX configurations according to the first configuration information. The first configuration information includes an identifier of the first C-DRX configuration, which may be that the first cell DTX configuration in the first configuration information includes an identifier of the first C-DRX configuration, or that the first configuration information itself includes an identifier of the first C-DRX configuration.

In a possible implementation manner, the first configuration information includes identifiers corresponding to the at least one cell DTX configuration respectively, and the method further includes: and receiving a plurality of cell DTX configurations from the network equipment and identifiers respectively corresponding to the plurality of cell DTX configurations, wherein the plurality of cell DTX configurations comprise the at least one cell DTX configuration. The first configuration information includes an identifier of the first cell DTX configuration, which may be that the first C-DRX configuration in the first configuration information includes an identifier of the cell DTX configuration, or that the first configuration information itself includes an identifier of the cell DTX configuration.

In one possible implementation, the first signaling is cell DTX configuration activation signaling or cell DTX configuration handover signaling.

In one possible implementation, receiving second configuration information from the network device, the second configuration information being used to indicate a second C-DRX configuration applied by the terminal device after deactivating the first cell DTX configuration; receiving second signaling from the network device, the second signaling being for indicating to deactivate the first cell DTX configuration; deactivating the first cell DTX configuration; and applying the second C-DRX configuration according to the second configuration information.

In one possible implementation, the applying the second C-DRX configuration includes: applying the second C-DRX configuration while deactivating the first cell DTX configuration; or after deactivating the first cell DTX configuration, applying the second C-DRX configuration at a second point in time, the second point in time being protocol specified or the second point in time being carried in the second configuration information; or after deactivating the first cell DTX configuration, delaying a second duration and reapplying the second C-DRX configuration; the second duration is specified by a protocol or is carried in the second configuration information.

In a possible implementation manner, the second configuration information is used to indicate a second C-DRX configuration applied by the terminal device after deactivating the second cell DTX configuration, including: the second configuration information includes a second C-DRX configuration applied by the terminal device after deactivating the first cell DTX configuration, or an identification of the second C-DRX configuration.

In one possible implementation, the second configuration information includes an identification of the second C-DRX configuration, the method further comprising: and receiving a plurality of C-DRX configurations from the network equipment and identifiers respectively corresponding to the plurality of C-DRX configurations, wherein the plurality of C-DRX configurations comprise the second C-DRX configuration.

In one possible implementation, the first cell DTX configuration indicates at least one of:

identification of cell DTX;

a period of the cell DTX;

a time domain offset and duration of the start of the active period of the cell DTX;

a time domain offset and duration of the end of the active period of the cell DTX;

a time domain offset and duration of the beginning of the inactive period of the cell DTX;

a time domain offset and duration of the end of the inactive period of the cell DTX; or,

During the inactive period of the cell DTX, the cell does not transmit signaling and/or channels.

In some embodiments, in the case that the first cell DTX configuration includes the time domain offset and the duration of the start of the active period of the cell DTX, the time domain offset and the duration of the end of the active period of the cell DTX may not be included any more. Conversely, in the case that the first cell DTX configuration includes the time domain offset and the duration of the end of the active period of the cell DTX, the time domain offset and the duration of the start of the active period of the cell DTX may not be included any more.

In some embodiments, in the case that the first cell DTX configuration includes the time domain offset and the duration of the beginning of the inactive period of the cell DTX, the time domain offset and the duration of the end of the inactive period of the cell DTX may not be included. Conversely, in the case that the first cell DTX configuration includes the time domain offset and the duration of the end of the inactive period of the cell DTX, the time domain offset and the duration of the start of the inactive period of the cell DTX may not be included any more.

In one possible implementation, the first C-DRX configuration indicates at least one of:

a period of a first C-DRX;

a time domain offset and a duration of a wake-up period of the first C-DRX;

A time domain offset and a duration of an end of a wake-up period of the first C-DRX;

an inactivity timer for the first C-DRX; or,

the terminal device of the first C-DRX waits for a retransmission timer.

In some embodiments, in the case that the first C-DRX configuration includes the time domain offset and the duration of the beginning of the awake period of the first C-DRX, the time domain offset and the duration of the end of the awake period of the first C-DRX may not be included. Conversely, in the case that the first C-DRX configuration includes the time domain offset and the duration of the end of the awake period of the first C-DRX, the time domain offset and the duration of the beginning of the awake period of the first C-DRX may not be included.

In one possible implementation, the method further includes: receiving second signaling from the network device, the second signaling being for indicating to deactivate the first cell DTX configuration; whereby the terminal device performs deactivating said first cell DTX configuration; performing any one of the following:

after deactivating the first cell DTX configuration, continuing to apply the first C-DRX configuration; or,

after deactivating the DTX configuration of the first cell, applying C-DRX configuration specified by a protocol; or,

Deactivating the first C-DRX configuration after deactivating the first cell DTX configuration; or,

and after the first cell DTX configuration is deactivated, C-DRX configuration applied by the terminal equipment before the first cell DTX configuration is activated is applied.

In a second aspect, embodiments of the present application provide another communication method that may be performed by a network device, or by another device that includes the functionality of the network device, or by a system-on-chip (or chip) or other functional module that is capable of implementing the functionality of the network device, where the system-on-chip or functional module is disposed in the network device, for example.

The method comprises the following steps: the network equipment sends first configuration information to the terminal equipment, wherein the first configuration information is used for indicating the association information of discontinuous transmission DTX configuration and first connection state-discontinuous reception C-DRX configuration of a first cell; and sending a first signaling to the terminal equipment, wherein the first signaling is used for indicating to activate the DTX configuration of the first cell.

In the application, the network device configures the association relation between the cell DTX configuration and the C-DRX configuration to the terminal device in advance, so that the terminal device can determine the C-DRX configuration which can be applied under the condition of activating the cell DTX configuration according to the pre-configured association relation under the condition that the terminal device receives the condition that the network device indicates to activate the cell DTX configuration. Therefore, when the cell DTX configuration is activated, the terminal equipment quickly adjusts the applied C-DRX configuration.

In one possible implementation manner, the first configuration information is used for indicating association information of a first cell DTX configuration and a first C-DRX configuration, and includes:

the first configuration information comprises the first cell DTX configuration, and the first cell DTX configuration comprises the first C-DRX configuration or an identification of the first C-DRX configuration; or alternatively, the first and second heat exchangers may be,

the first configuration information comprises a first C-DRX configuration of the terminal equipment, the first C-DRX configuration comprises at least one cell DTX configuration or identifiers respectively corresponding to the at least one cell DTX configuration, and the at least one cell DTX configuration comprises the first cell DTX configuration; or alternatively, the first and second heat exchangers may be,

the first configuration information comprises identifiers of the first C-DRX configuration and identifiers respectively corresponding to at least one cell DTX configuration associated with the identifiers of the first C-DRX configuration, and the identifiers respectively corresponding to the at least one cell DTX configuration comprise the identifiers of the first cell DTX configuration.

In one possible implementation, the first configuration information includes an identification of the first C-DRX configuration, the method further comprising: and sending a plurality of C-DRX configurations and identifiers respectively corresponding to the plurality of C-DRX configurations to the terminal equipment, wherein the plurality of C-DRX configuration information comprises the first C-DRX configuration information.

In a possible implementation manner, the first configuration information includes identifiers corresponding to the at least one cell DTX configuration respectively, and the method further includes: and sending a plurality of cell DTX configurations and identifiers respectively corresponding to the plurality of cell DTX configurations to the terminal equipment, wherein the plurality of C-DRX configurations comprise the at least one cell DTX configuration.

In a possible implementation manner, the first configuration information further includes a first time point, where the first time point is used to instruct the terminal device to apply the first C-DRX configuration after activating the first cell DTX configuration; or, the first configuration information further includes a first time length, where the first time length is used to instruct the terminal device to reapply the first C-DRX configuration after activating the first cell DTX configuration.

In one possible implementation, the method further includes: transmitting second configuration information to the terminal equipment, wherein the second configuration information is used for indicating to deactivate a second C-DRX configuration applied by the terminal equipment after the DTX configuration of the first cell; and sending a second signaling to the terminal equipment, wherein the second signaling indicates to deactivate the DTX configuration of the second cell.

In a possible implementation manner, the second configuration information is used to indicate a second C-DRX configuration adopted by the terminal device after deactivating the first cell DTX configuration, and includes: the second configuration information includes a second C-DRX configuration applied by the terminal device after deactivating the first cell DTX configuration, or an identification of the second C-DRX configuration.

In a possible implementation manner, the second configuration information further includes a second time point, where the second time point is used to instruct the terminal device to apply the second C-DRX configuration after deactivating the first cell DTX configuration; or, the second configuration information further includes a second duration, where the second duration is used to instruct the terminal device to reapply the second C-DRX configuration after deactivating the first cell DTX configuration.

In one possible implementation, the second configuration information includes an identification of the second C-DRX configuration, the method further comprising: and sending a plurality of C-DRX configurations and identifiers respectively corresponding to the plurality of C-DRX configurations to the terminal equipment, wherein the plurality of C-DRX configuration information comprises the second C-DRX configuration information.

identification of cell DTX;

a period of the cell DTX;

a period of a first C-DRX;

a time domain offset and a duration of a wake-up period of the first C-DRX;

an inactivity timer for the first C-DRX; or,

the terminal device of the first C-DRX waits for a retransmission timer.

In one possible implementation manner, the network device sends first configuration information to the terminal device, and the method includes:

the concentration unit CU of the network device sends said first configuration information to the terminal device.

In one possible implementation manner, before the CU of the network device sends the first configuration information to the terminal device, the method further includes:

The CU of the network device receives a cell DTX configuration and/or a first C-DRX configuration from the DU. A cell DTX configuration, such as the first cell DTX configuration or the at least one cell DTX configuration; or,

the CU of the network device receives the first configuration information from the DU.

Illustratively, a CU may receive cell DTX configuration, first C-DRX configuration, or first configuration information from a DU over an F1 interface.

This way either DTX configuration or C-DRX configuration will be configured for the terminal device by the DU.

In some possible implementations, either the DTX configuration or the C-DRX configuration may be configured by the CU itself for the terminal device.

In one possible implementation manner, before the network device sends the first configuration information to the terminal device, the method includes:

the network device receives the first configuration information from an access and mobility management function, AMF, or a user plane function, UPF; or,

the network device receives the first cell DTX configuration or the at least one cell DTX configuration from the access and mobility management function, AMF, or the user plane function, UPF; or,

the network device receives said first C-DRX configuration from the access and mobility management function AMF or the user plane function UPF.

In one possible implementation manner, the network device sends second configuration information to the terminal device, and the method includes:

The concentration unit CU of the network device sends said second configuration information to the terminal device.

In a possible implementation manner, before the CU of the network device sends the second configuration information to the terminal device, the method further includes:

the CU of the network device receiving a second C-DRX configuration from the DU; or,

the CU of the network device receives the second configuration information from the DU.

In one possible implementation manner, before the network device sends the second configuration information to the terminal device, the method includes:

the network device receiving the second configuration information from an access and mobility management function AMF or a user plane function UPF; or,

the network device receives said second C-DRX configuration from the access and mobility management function AMF or the user plane function UPF.

In a third aspect, embodiments of the present application provide a communication method, which may be performed by a terminal device, or by another device including a function of the terminal device, or by a chip system (or chip) or other functional module, which is capable of implementing a function of the terminal device, and the chip system or functional module is provided in the terminal device, for example. The following is performed by the terminal device as an example in a method comprising: the terminal equipment receives a discontinuous transmission DTX configuration of a first cell from the network equipment; receiving first signaling from a network device, the first signaling being for indicating to activate the first cell DTX configuration and for indicating a first connected-state-discontinuous reception, C-DRX, configuration applied when activating the cell DTX configuration; activating the cell DTX configuration according to the first signaling, and applying the first C-DRX configuration.

In the embodiment of the application, the network equipment directly indicates the C-DRX configuration applied under the condition of activating the cell DTX configuration in the activation instruction. After receiving the activation signaling, the terminal device can quickly adjust the C-DRX configuration under the condition of activating the cell DTX configuration.

In one possible implementation, the first signaling indicates a first connected state discontinuous reception, C-DRX, configuration applied when activating the first cell DTX configuration, comprising:

the first signaling carries the first C-DRX configuration or the first signaling carries an identification of the first C-DRX configuration.

In one possible implementation, the first signaling carries an identification of the first C-DRX configuration, and the method further includes: receiving a plurality of C-DRX configurations from a network device and identifiers respectively corresponding to the plurality of C-DRX configurations, wherein the plurality of C-DRX configurations comprise the first C-DRX configuration; the applying the first C-DRX configuration includes: and applying the C-DRX configuration corresponding to the identification of the first C-DRX configuration in the plurality of C-DRX configurations.

In one possible implementation, applying the first C-DRX configuration includes: applying the first C-DRX configuration when activating the cell DTX configuration; or after activating the cell DTX configuration, applying the first C-DRX configuration at a first point in time, where the first point in time is specified by a protocol or the first point in time is carried in the first configuration information; or after activating the cell DTX configuration, delaying the first time to reapply the first C-DRX configuration; the first duration is specified by a protocol or the first duration is carried in the first configuration information.

In one possible implementation, the method further includes: receiving second signaling from a network device, wherein the second signaling is used for indicating to deactivate the first cell DTX configuration, and the second signaling also carries a second C-DRX configuration or an identifier of the second C-DRX configuration applied by the terminal device after the first cell DTX configuration is deactivated;

deactivating the cell DTX configuration according to the second signaling, and applying the second C-DRX configuration.

In one possible implementation, the first signaling carries an identification of the second C-DRX configuration, the method further comprising: and receiving a plurality of C-DRX configurations from the network equipment and identifiers respectively corresponding to the plurality of C-DRX configurations, wherein the plurality of C-DRX configurations comprise the second C-DRX configuration.

In one possible implementation, the method further includes: receiving second signaling from a network device, the second signaling being for indicating to deactivate the cell DTX configuration; the terminal device deactivates the cell DTX configuration and performs any one of the following:

In one possible implementation, the second signaling also carries indication information; the indication information is used for indicating any one of the following:

indicating the terminal equipment to continue to apply the first C-DRX configuration after the cell DTX configuration is deactivated;

indicating to deactivate the cell DTX configuration and then enabling the terminal equipment to apply a protocol to prescribe C-DRX configuration;

indicating the terminal equipment to deactivate the first C-DRX configuration after the cell DTX configuration is deactivated; or,

and after the cell DTX configuration is indicated to be deactivated, the terminal equipment applies the C-DRX configuration applied by the terminal equipment before the cell DTX configuration is activated.

In one possible implementation, the applying the second C-DRX configuration includes: applying the second C-DRX configuration while deactivating the second cell DTX configuration; or after deactivating the first cell DTX configuration, applying the second C-DRX configuration at a second point in time, the second point in time being protocol specified or the second point in time being carried in the second configuration information; or after deactivating the first cell DTX configuration, delaying a second duration and reapplying the second C-DRX configuration; the second duration is specified by a protocol or is carried in the second configuration information.

identification of cell DTX;

a period of the cell DTX;

a period of a first C-DRX;

a time domain offset and a duration of a wake-up period of the first C-DRX;

an inactivity timer for the first C-DRX; or,

the terminal device of the first C-DRX waits for a retransmission timer.

In one possible implementation, receiving first signaling from a network device includes:

receiving the first signaling from a CU of a network device; or,

first signaling of a DU from a network device is received.

In a fourth aspect, embodiments of the present application provide a communication method that may be performed by a network device, or by another device including a function of the network device, or by a chip system (or chip) or other functional module that is capable of implementing a function of the network device, where the chip system or functional module is provided in the network device, for example. The method comprises the following steps: the network equipment sends DTX configuration of a first cell to the terminal equipment; and sending a first signaling to the terminal equipment, wherein the first signaling is used for indicating to activate the cell DTX configuration and indicating a first connection state-discontinuous reception (C-DRX) configuration applied by the terminal equipment when the first cell DTX configuration is activated.

In one possible implementation, the first signaling indicates a first C-DRX configuration applied by the terminal device when activating the first cell DTX configuration, including: the first signaling carries the first C-DRX configuration or the first signaling carries an identification of the first C-DRX configuration.

In one possible implementation, the first signaling carries an identification of the first C-DRX configuration, and the method further includes: and the network equipment sends a plurality of C-DRX configurations and identifiers respectively corresponding to the plurality of C-DRX configurations to the terminal equipment, wherein the plurality of C-DRX configuration information comprises the first C-DRX configuration information.

In a possible implementation manner, the first signaling further carries a first time point, where the first time point is used for indicating the terminal device to apply the first C-DRX configuration at the first time point after activating the first cell DTX configuration; or, the first signaling also carries a first duration, where the first duration is used to instruct the terminal device to reapply the first C-DRX configuration after activating the first cell DTX configuration.

In one possible implementation, the method further includes: the network equipment sends a second signaling to the terminal equipment, wherein the second signaling is used for indicating to deactivate the DTX configuration of the first cell; the second signaling also carries a second C-DRX configuration applied by the terminal device after deactivating the cell DTX configuration, or an identification of the second C-DRX configuration.

In one possible implementation, the method further includes: the network equipment sends a second signaling to the terminal equipment, wherein the second signaling is used for indicating to deactivate the cell DTX configuration; the second signaling also carries indication information; wherein the indication information is used for indicating any one of the following: indicating that the terminal equipment does not change the C-DRX configuration after the cell DTX configuration is deactivated; or, instruct to deactivate the C-DRX configuration specified by the terminal equipment application protocol after the cell DTX configuration; or, after the cell DTX configuration is instructed to be deactivated, the terminal equipment deactivates the first C-DRX configuration; or, instruct the terminal device to apply a fourth C-DRX configuration after deactivating the cell DTX configuration, the fourth C-DRX configuration being the C-DRX configuration applied by the terminal device before activating the cell DTX configuration.

In a possible implementation manner, the second signaling further carries a second time point, where the second time point is used for indicating the terminal device to apply the second C-DRX configuration or apply the indication information after deactivating the first cell DTX configuration; or the second signaling also carries a second duration, where the second duration is used to instruct the terminal device to reapply the second C-DRX configuration or the instruction information after deactivating the first cell DTX configuration.

In one possible implementation, the second signaling carries an identification of the second C-DRX configuration, and the method further includes: and the network equipment sends a plurality of C-DRX configurations and identifiers respectively corresponding to the plurality of C-DRX configurations to the terminal equipment, wherein the plurality of C-DRX configuration information comprises the second C-DRX configuration information.

In one possible implementation, the network device sends a first signaling to the terminal device, including:

the central unit CU of the network equipment sends the first signaling to the terminal equipment; or,

the DU of the network device sends the first signaling to the terminal device.

The CU may send the first signaling to the terminal device by means of an RRC message, for example. The DU may transmit the first signaling to the terminal device through the MAC CE or DCI.

In one possible implementation manner, before the CU of the network device sends the first signaling to the terminal device, the method further includes:

the CU of the network device receives a first C-DRX configuration or a first signaling from the DU.

Illustratively, a CU may receive the first C-DRX configuration from the DU over the F1 interface.

In one possible implementation, before the DU of the network device sends the first signaling to the terminal device, the method further includes:

the DU of the network device receives a first C-DRX configuration or a first signaling from the CU.

Illustratively, the DU may receive a first C-DRX configuration or first signaling from the CU over the F1 interface.

In one possible implementation, before the network device sends the first signaling to the terminal device, the method further includes:

the network device receiving the first signaling from an access and mobility management function, AMF, or a user plane function, UPF; or,

In one possible implementation, the network device sends the second signaling to the terminal device, the method includes:

the concentration unit CU of the network equipment sends the second signaling to the terminal equipment; or,

The distribution unit DU of the network device sends said second signaling to the terminal device.

In one possible implementation manner, before the CU of the network device sends the second signaling to the terminal device, the method further includes:

the CU of the network device receives the second signaling from DU.

In one possible implementation, before the DU of the network device sends the second signaling to the terminal device, the method further includes:

the DU of the network device receiving a second C-DRX configuration from the CU; or,

the DU of the network device receives the second signaling from the CU.

In one possible implementation, before the network device sends the second signaling to the terminal device, the method includes:

the network device receives said second signaling from the access and mobility management function AMF or the user plane function UPF.

In a fifth aspect, embodiments of the present application provide a communication method, which may be performed by a terminal device, or by another device including a function of the terminal device, or by a chip system (or chip) or other functional module, which is capable of implementing a function of the terminal device, and the chip system or functional module is provided in the terminal device, for example. The following is performed by the terminal device as an example in a method comprising: the terminal equipment receives second configuration information from the network equipment, wherein the second configuration information is used for indicating to deactivate a second C-DRX configuration applied by the terminal equipment after the second cell DTX configuration is deactivated, and the second cell DTX configuration is the cell DTX configuration in the current activation state; receiving second signaling from the network device, the second signaling being for indicating to deactivate the second cell DTX configuration; deactivating the second cell DTX configuration; and applying the second C-DRX configuration according to the second configuration information.

In a possible implementation manner, the second configuration information is used to indicate a second C-DRX configuration applied by the terminal device after deactivating the second cell DTX configuration, including: the second configuration information includes a second C-DRX configuration applied by the terminal device after deactivating the second cell DTX configuration, or an identification of the second C-DRX configuration.

In one possible implementation, the applying the second C-DRX configuration includes: applying the second C-DRX configuration while deactivating the second cell DTX configuration; or after deactivating the second cell DTX configuration, applying the second C-DRX configuration at a second point in time, the second point in time being protocol specified or the second point in time being carried in the second configuration information; or after deactivating the second cell DTX configuration, delaying a second duration and reapplying the second C-DRX configuration; the second duration is specified by a protocol or is carried in the second configuration information.

identification of cell DTX;

a period of the cell DTX;

a period of a first C-DRX;

a time domain offset and a duration of a wake-up period of the first C-DRX;

an inactivity timer for the first C-DRX; or,

the terminal device of the first C-DRX waits for a retransmission timer.

In a sixth aspect, embodiments of the present application provide a communication method that may be performed by a network device, or by another device including a function of the network device, or by a chip system (or chip) or other functional module that is capable of implementing a function of the network device, where the chip system or functional module is provided in the network device, for example. The method comprises the following steps: the network equipment sends second configuration information to the terminal equipment, wherein the second configuration information is used for indicating a second C-DRX configuration applied by the terminal equipment after the DTX configuration of a second cell is deactivated; the second cell DTX configuration is the cell DTX configuration in the current active state; and sending a second signaling to the terminal equipment, wherein the second signaling indicates to deactivate the DTX configuration of the second cell.

In a possible implementation manner, the second configuration information is used to indicate a second C-DRX configuration adopted by the terminal device after deactivating the second cell DTX configuration, including: the second configuration information includes a second C-DRX configuration applied by the terminal device after deactivating the second cell DTX configuration, or an identification of the second C-DRX configuration.

In a possible implementation manner, the second configuration information further includes a second time point, where the second time point is used to instruct the terminal device to apply the second C-DRX configuration after deactivating the second cell DTX configuration; or, the second configuration information further includes a second duration, where the second duration is used to instruct the terminal device to reapply the second C-DRX configuration after deactivating the second cell DTX configuration.

identification of cell DTX;

a period of the cell DTX;

a period of a first C-DRX;

a time domain offset and a duration of a wake-up period of the first C-DRX;

an inactivity timer for the first C-DRX; or,

the terminal device of the first C-DRX waits for a retransmission timer.

In a seventh aspect, embodiments of the present application provide a communication method, which may be performed by a terminal device, or by another device including a function of the terminal device, or by a chip system (or chip) or other functional module, which is capable of implementing a function of the terminal device, and the chip system or functional module is provided in the terminal device, for example. The following is performed by the terminal device as an example in a method comprising: the terminal equipment receives second signaling from the network equipment, wherein the second signaling is used for indicating to deactivate second cell DTX configuration, and the second cell DTX configuration is the cell DTX configuration in the current activation state; deactivating the DTX configuration of the second cell according to the second signaling, and applying a second C-DRX configuration or deactivating a currently applied C-DRX configuration; wherein,,

The second C-DRX configuration is protocol specified; or, the second C-DRX configuration is a C-DRX configuration applied by the terminal device before activating the first cell DTX configuration; or the second C-DRX configuration is the C-DRX configuration currently applied by the terminal equipment; or, the second C-DRX configuration is carried in the second signaling; or, the identification of the second C-DRX configuration is carried in the second signaling.

In one possible implementation, the second signaling carries an identification of the second C-DRX configuration, and the method further includes: and receiving a plurality of C-DRX configurations from the network equipment and identifiers respectively corresponding to the plurality of C-DRX configurations, wherein the plurality of C-DRX configurations comprise the second C-DRX configuration.

In one possible implementation, the second C-DRX configuration is protocol specified; or, the second C-DRX configuration is a C-DRX configuration applied by the terminal device before activating the first cell DTX configuration; or the second C-DRX configuration is the C-DRX configuration currently applied by the terminal equipment; the applying the second C-DRX configuration includes: applying the second C-DRX configuration according to the indication information; the indication information is carried in the second signaling; the indication information indicates that the second C-DRX configuration is applied.

In one possible implementation, the applying the second C-DRX configuration includes: applying the second C-DRX configuration while deactivating the second cell DTX configuration; or after deactivating the second cell DTX configuration, applying the second C-DRX configuration at a second point in time, the second point in time being protocol specified or the second point in time being carried in the second signaling; or after deactivating the second cell DTX configuration, delaying a second duration and reapplying the second C-DRX configuration; the second duration is protocol specified or carried in the second signaling.

In an eighth aspect, embodiments of the present application provide a communication method that may be performed by a network device, or by another device including a function of the network device, or by a chip system (or chip) or other functional module that is capable of implementing a function of the network device, where the chip system or functional module is provided in the network device, for example. The method comprises the following steps: transmitting a second signaling to the terminal equipment, wherein the second signaling is used for indicating to deactivate the DTX configuration of the second cell; the second signaling also carries indication information or deactivates a second C-DRX configuration applied by the terminal device after the second cell DTX configuration or an identifier of the second C-DRX configuration; the indication information is used for indicating the terminal equipment to execute any one of the following steps: applying a protocol specified C-DRX configuration after deactivating the second cell DTX configuration; or after deactivating the DTX configuration of the second cell, continuing to apply the C-DRX configuration in the current activated state; or, applying a C-DRX configuration applied before activating the second cell DTX configuration after deactivating the cell DTX configuration; or, the C-DRX configuration in the active state is deactivated after the cell DTX configuration is deactivated.

In a possible implementation manner, the second signaling further carries a second time point, where the second time point is used to instruct the terminal device to apply the second C-DRX configuration at the second time point or perform the operation indicated by the instruction information at the second time point after the second cell DTX configuration is deactivated; or the second signaling also carries a second duration, where the second duration is used to instruct the terminal device to reapply the second C-DRX configuration after deactivating the second cell DTX configuration, or to reapply the second duration to execute the operation executed by the instruction information after the second duration is delayed.

In a ninth aspect, a communication apparatus is provided. The communication device may be a terminal apparatus as described in any one of the above first aspects. The communication device has the functions of the terminal device. The communication means are for example terminal devices, or larger devices comprising terminal devices, or functional modules in terminal devices, such as baseband means or chip systems etc. In an alternative implementation, the communication device includes a baseband device and a radio frequency device. In another alternative implementation, the communication device includes a processing unit (sometimes also referred to as a processing module) and a transceiver unit (sometimes also referred to as a transceiver module). The transceiver unit can realize a transmission function and a reception function, and may be referred to as a transmission unit (sometimes referred to as a transmission module) when the transceiver unit realizes the transmission function, and may be referred to as a reception unit (sometimes referred to as a reception module) when the transceiver unit realizes the reception function. The transmitting unit and the receiving unit may be the same functional module, which is called a transceiver unit, and which can implement a transmitting function and a receiving function; alternatively, the transmitting unit and the receiving unit may be different functional modules, and the transmitting and receiving unit is a generic term for these functional modules.

In an alternative embodiment, the transceiver unit (or the receiving unit) is configured to receive first configuration information from a network device, where the first configuration information is configured to indicate association information of a first cell discontinuous transmission DTX configuration and a first connection state-discontinuous reception C-DRX configuration (or is configured to indicate association relation of the first cell discontinuous transmission DTX configuration and the first connection state-discontinuous reception C-DRX configuration); receiving first signaling from a network device, the first signaling being used to indicate activation of the first cell DTX configuration; the processing unit is configured to activate the first cell DTX configuration; and applying the first C-DRX configuration according to the first configuration information.

In one possible implementation, the processing unit is specifically configured to: applying the first C-DRX configuration while activating the first cell DTX configuration; or after activating the first cell DTX configuration, applying the first C-DRX configuration at a first point in time, where the first point in time is specified by a protocol or the first point in time is carried in the first configuration information; or after the first cell DTX configuration is activated, delaying the first time period and then applying the first C-DRX configuration; the first duration is specified by a protocol or the first duration is carried in the first configuration information. So that the terminal device can effectively determine the occasion of applying the C-DRX configuration.

In one possible implementation manner, the first configuration information is used for indicating the association information of the first cell discontinuous transmission DTX configuration and the first connection state-discontinuous reception C-DRX configuration, and includes: the first configuration information comprises a first cell DTX configuration, and the first cell DTX configuration comprises the first C-DRX configuration or an identification of the first C-DRX configuration; or the first configuration information comprises a first C-DRX configuration, the first C-DRX configuration comprises at least one cell DTX configuration or identifiers respectively corresponding to the at least one cell DTX configuration, and the at least one cell DTX configuration comprises the first cell DTX configuration; or the first configuration information comprises the identification of the first C-DRX configuration and the identification corresponding to at least one cell DTX configuration respectively associated with the identification of the first C-DRX configuration, wherein the identification corresponding to the at least one cell DTX configuration respectively comprises the identification of the first cell DTX configuration.

In a possible implementation manner, in a case that the first configuration information includes an identifier of the first C-DRX configuration, the transceiver unit (or the receiving unit) is further configured to receive a plurality of C-DRX configurations from the network device and identifiers corresponding to the plurality of C-DRX configurations respectively, where the plurality of C-DRX configurations includes the first C-DRX configuration; the processing unit applies a first C-DRX configuration according to the first configuration information, comprising: and applying a first C-DRX configuration corresponding to the identification of the first C-DRX configuration in the plurality of C-DRX configurations according to the first configuration information.

In a possible implementation manner, the first configuration information includes identifiers corresponding to the at least one cell DTX configuration respectively, and the transceiver unit (or the receiving unit) is further configured to receive a plurality of cell DTX configurations from the network device and identifiers corresponding to the plurality of cell DTX configurations respectively, where the plurality of cell DTX configurations includes the at least one cell DTX configuration.

In a possible implementation manner, the transceiver unit (or the receiving unit) is further configured to receive second configuration information from a network device, where the second configuration information is used to indicate a second C-DRX configuration applied by the terminal device after the first cell DTX configuration is deactivated; receiving second signaling from the network device, the second signaling being for indicating to deactivate the first cell DTX configuration; a processing unit, configured to deactivate the first cell DTX configuration; and applying the second C-DRX configuration according to the second configuration information.

In one possible implementation, the processing unit applies the second C-DRX configuration, including: applying the second C-DRX configuration while deactivating the first cell DTX configuration; or after deactivating the first cell DTX configuration, applying the second C-DRX configuration at a second point in time, the second point in time being protocol specified or the second point in time being carried in the second configuration information; or after deactivating the first cell DTX configuration, delaying a second duration and reapplying the second C-DRX configuration; the second duration is specified by a protocol or is carried in the second configuration information.

In a possible implementation, the transceiver unit (or the receiving unit) is further configured to receive second signaling from the network device, where the second signaling is used to instruct to deactivate the first cell DTX configuration; whereby the processing unit is further adapted to perform deactivating said first cell DTX configuration; performing any one of the following:

In an alternative embodiment, the communication device further comprises a storage unit (sometimes also referred to as a storage module), and the processing unit is configured to be coupled to the storage unit and execute a program or instructions in the storage unit, so that the communication device performs the functions of the terminal device according to the first aspect.

In a tenth aspect, a communication device is provided. The communication means may be a network device according to any implementation manner of the second aspect. The communication device has the functions of the network device. The communication means are for example network devices, or larger devices comprising network devices, or functional modules in network devices, such as baseband means or chip systems etc. In an alternative implementation, the communication device includes a baseband device and a radio frequency device. In another alternative implementation, the communication device includes a processing unit (sometimes also referred to as a processing module) and a transceiver unit (sometimes also referred to as a transceiver module). The transceiver unit can realize a transmission function and a reception function, and may be referred to as a transmission unit (sometimes referred to as a transmission module) when the transceiver unit realizes the transmission function, and may be referred to as a reception unit (sometimes referred to as a reception module) when the transceiver unit realizes the reception function. The transmitting unit and the receiving unit may be the same functional module, which is called a transceiver unit, and which can implement a transmitting function and a receiving function; alternatively, the transmitting unit and the receiving unit may be different functional modules, and the transmitting and receiving unit is a generic term for these functional modules.

In an alternative embodiment, the transceiver unit (or the sending unit) is configured to send first configuration information to the terminal device, where the first configuration information is used to indicate association information of a first cell discontinuous transmission DTX configuration and a first connection state-discontinuous reception C-DRX configuration; and sending a first signaling to the terminal equipment, wherein the first signaling is used for indicating to activate the DTX configuration of the first cell.

In an alternative embodiment, the processing unit is configured to control the transceiver unit (or the sending unit) to send the first configuration information to the terminal device; and sending a first signaling to the terminal equipment.

In a possible implementation manner, the first configuration information includes an identifier of the first C-DRX configuration, and the transceiver unit (or the sending unit) is further configured to send, to the terminal device, a plurality of C-DRX configurations and identifiers corresponding to the plurality of C-DRX configurations respectively, where the plurality of C-DRX configuration information includes the first C-DRX configuration information.

In a possible implementation manner, the first configuration information includes identifiers corresponding to the at least one cell DTX configuration respectively, and the transceiver unit (or the sending unit) is further configured to send a plurality of cell DTX configurations and identifiers corresponding to the plurality of cell DTX configurations respectively to the terminal device, where the plurality of C-DRX configurations includes the at least one cell DTX configuration.

In a possible implementation manner, the transceiver unit (or the sending unit) is further configured to send second configuration information to a terminal device, where the second configuration information is used to indicate a second C-DRX configuration applied by the terminal device after the first cell DTX configuration is deactivated; and sending a second signaling to the terminal equipment, wherein the second signaling indicates to deactivate the DTX configuration of the second cell.

In a possible implementation manner, the second configuration information includes an identifier of the second C-DRX configuration, and the transceiver unit (or the sending unit) is further configured to send, to a terminal device, a plurality of C-DRX configurations and identifiers corresponding to the plurality of C-DRX configurations respectively, where the plurality of C-DRX configuration information includes the second C-DRX configuration information.

An eleventh aspect provides a communication device, which may be the terminal apparatus of any one of the above third aspects. The communication device has the functions of the terminal device. The communication means are for example terminal devices, or larger devices comprising terminal devices, or functional modules in terminal devices, such as baseband means or chip systems etc. In an alternative implementation, the communication device includes a baseband device and a radio frequency device. In another alternative implementation, the communication device includes a processing unit (sometimes also referred to as a processing module) and a transceiver unit (sometimes also referred to as a transceiver module). The transceiver unit can realize a transmission function and a reception function, and may be referred to as a transmission unit (sometimes referred to as a transmission module) when the transceiver unit realizes the transmission function, and may be referred to as a reception unit (sometimes referred to as a reception module) when the transceiver unit realizes the reception function. The transmitting unit and the receiving unit may be the same functional module, which is called a transceiver unit, and which can implement a transmitting function and a receiving function; alternatively, the transmitting unit and the receiving unit may be different functional modules, and the transmitting and receiving unit is a generic term for these functional modules.

In an alternative embodiment, the transceiver unit (or the receiving unit) is configured to receive a first cell discontinuous transmission DTX configuration from a network device; receiving first signaling from a network device, the first signaling being for indicating to activate the first cell DTX configuration and for indicating a first connected-state-discontinuous reception, C-DRX, configuration applied when activating the cell DTX configuration; the processing unit is configured to activate the cell DTX configuration according to the first signaling, and apply the first C-DRX configuration.

In a possible implementation manner, the first signaling carries an identifier of the first C-DRX configuration, and the transceiver unit (or the receiving unit) is further configured to receive a plurality of C-DRX configurations from a network device and identifiers corresponding to the plurality of C-DRX configurations respectively, where the plurality of C-DRX configurations include the first C-DRX configuration; the processing unit, applying the first C-DRX configuration, includes: and applying the C-DRX configuration corresponding to the identification of the first C-DRX configuration in the plurality of C-DRX configurations.

In one possible implementation, the processing unit applies the first C-DRX configuration, including: applying the first C-DRX configuration when activating the cell DTX configuration; or after activating the cell DTX configuration, applying the first C-DRX configuration at a first point in time, where the first point in time is specified by a protocol or the first point in time is carried in the first configuration information; or after activating the cell DTX configuration, delaying the first time to reapply the first C-DRX configuration; the first duration is specified by a protocol or the first duration is carried in the first configuration information.

In a possible implementation manner, the transceiver unit (or the receiving unit) is further configured to receive a second signaling from the network device, where the second signaling is used to instruct to deactivate the first cell DTX configuration, and the second signaling is further configured to carry an identifier of a second C-DRX configuration or the second C-DRX configuration applied by the terminal device after deactivating the first cell DTX configuration; the processing unit is further configured to deactivate the cell DTX configuration according to the second signaling, and apply the second C-DRX configuration.

In a possible implementation manner, the first signaling carries an identifier of the second C-DRX configuration, and the transceiver unit (or the receiving unit) is further configured to receive a plurality of C-DRX configurations from a network device and identifiers corresponding to the plurality of C-DRX configurations respectively, where the plurality of C-DRX configurations includes the second C-DRX configuration.

In one possible implementation, the transceiver unit (or the receiving unit) is further configured to receive second signaling from a network device, where the second signaling is used to instruct to deactivate the cell DTX configuration; the processing unit is further configured to deactivate the cell DTX configuration and perform any one of:

In one possible implementation, the processing unit applies the second C-DRX configuration, including: applying the second C-DRX configuration while deactivating the second cell DTX configuration; or after deactivating the first cell DTX configuration, applying the second C-DRX configuration at a second point in time, the second point in time being protocol specified or the second point in time being carried in the second configuration information; or after deactivating the first cell DTX configuration, delaying a second duration and reapplying the second C-DRX configuration; the second duration is specified by a protocol or is carried in the second configuration information.

In a twelfth aspect, a communication device is provided. The communication means may be a network device according to any implementation manner of the second aspect. The communication device has the functions of the network device. The communication means are for example network devices, or larger devices comprising network devices, or functional modules in network devices, such as baseband means or chip systems etc. In an alternative implementation, the communication device includes a baseband device and a radio frequency device. In another alternative implementation, the communication device includes a processing unit (sometimes also referred to as a processing module) and a transceiver unit (sometimes also referred to as a transceiver module). The transceiver unit can realize a transmission function and a reception function, and may be referred to as a transmission unit (sometimes referred to as a transmission module) when the transceiver unit realizes the transmission function, and may be referred to as a reception unit (sometimes referred to as a reception module) when the transceiver unit realizes the reception function. The transmitting unit and the receiving unit may be the same functional module, which is called a transceiver unit, and which can implement a transmitting function and a receiving function; alternatively, the transmitting unit and the receiving unit may be different functional modules, and the transmitting and receiving unit is a generic term for these functional modules.

In an alternative embodiment, the transceiver unit (or the transmitting unit) is configured to transmit the first cell discontinuous transmission DTX configuration to the terminal device; and sending a first signaling to the terminal equipment, wherein the first signaling is used for indicating to activate the cell DTX configuration and indicating a first connection state-discontinuous reception (C-DRX) configuration applied by the terminal equipment when the first cell DTX configuration is activated.

In an alternative embodiment, the processing unit is configured to control the transceiver unit (or the transmitting unit) to transmit the first cell discontinuous transmission DTX configuration to the terminal device; and sending a first signaling to the terminal equipment.

In a possible implementation manner, the first signaling carries an identifier of the first C-DRX configuration, and the transceiver unit (or the sending unit) is further configured to send, to the terminal device, a plurality of C-DRX configurations and identifiers corresponding to the plurality of C-DRX configurations respectively, where the plurality of C-DRX configuration information includes the first C-DRX configuration information.

In a possible implementation manner, the transceiver unit (or the transmitting unit) is further configured to transmit a second signaling to the terminal device, where the second signaling is used to instruct to deactivate the first cell DTX configuration; the second signaling also carries a second C-DRX configuration applied by the terminal device after deactivating the cell DTX configuration, or an identification of the second C-DRX configuration.

In a possible implementation manner, the transceiver unit (or the transmitting unit) is further configured to transmit a second signaling to the terminal device, where the second signaling is used to instruct to deactivate the cell DTX configuration; the second signaling also carries indication information; wherein the indication information is used for indicating any one of the following: indicating that the terminal equipment does not change the C-DRX configuration after the cell DTX configuration is deactivated; or, instruct to deactivate the C-DRX configuration specified by the terminal equipment application protocol after the cell DTX configuration; or, after the cell DTX configuration is instructed to be deactivated, the terminal equipment deactivates the first C-DRX configuration; or, instruct the terminal device to apply a fourth C-DRX configuration after deactivating the cell DTX configuration, the fourth C-DRX configuration being the C-DRX configuration applied by the terminal device before activating the cell DTX configuration.

In a possible implementation manner, the second signaling carries an identifier of the second C-DRX configuration, and the transceiver unit (or the sending unit) is further configured to send, to the terminal device, a plurality of C-DRX configurations and identifiers corresponding to the plurality of C-DRX configurations respectively, where the plurality of C-DRX configuration information includes the second C-DRX configuration information.

A thirteenth aspect, the communication device may be the terminal device of any one of the first aspects above. The communication device has the functions of the terminal device. The communication means are for example terminal devices, or larger devices comprising terminal devices, or functional modules in terminal devices, such as baseband means or chip systems etc. In an alternative implementation, the communication device includes a baseband device and a radio frequency device. In another alternative implementation, the communication device includes a processing unit (sometimes also referred to as a processing module) and a transceiver unit (sometimes also referred to as a transceiver module). The transceiver unit can realize a transmission function and a reception function, and may be referred to as a transmission unit (sometimes referred to as a transmission module) when the transceiver unit realizes the transmission function, and may be referred to as a reception unit (sometimes referred to as a reception module) when the transceiver unit realizes the reception function. The transmitting unit and the receiving unit may be the same functional module, which is called a transceiver unit, and which can implement a transmitting function and a receiving function; alternatively, the transmitting unit and the receiving unit may be different functional modules, and the transmitting and receiving unit is a generic term for these functional modules.

In an alternative embodiment, the transceiver unit (or the receiving unit) is configured to receive second configuration information from the network device, where the second configuration information is used to instruct the terminal device to apply a second C-DRX configuration after deactivating a second cell DTX configuration, where the second cell DTX configuration is a cell DTX configuration that is currently in an active state; receiving second signaling from the network device, the second signaling being for indicating to deactivate the second cell DTX configuration; the processing unit is configured to deactivate the second cell DTX configuration; and applying the second C-DRX configuration according to the second configuration information.

In one possible implementation, the processing unit applies the second C-DRX configuration, including: applying the second C-DRX configuration while deactivating the second cell DTX configuration; or after deactivating the second cell DTX configuration, applying the second C-DRX configuration at a second point in time, the second point in time being protocol specified or the second point in time being carried in the second configuration information; or after deactivating the second cell DTX configuration, delaying a second duration and reapplying the second C-DRX configuration; the second duration is specified by a protocol or is carried in the second configuration information.

In a fourteenth aspect, a communication device is provided. The communication means may be a network device according to any implementation manner of the second aspect. The communication device has the functions of the network device. The communication means are for example network devices, or larger devices comprising network devices, or functional modules in network devices, such as baseband means or chip systems etc. In an alternative implementation, the communication device includes a baseband device and a radio frequency device. In another alternative implementation, the communication device includes a processing unit (sometimes also referred to as a processing module) and a transceiver unit (sometimes also referred to as a transceiver module). The transceiver unit can realize a transmission function and a reception function, and may be referred to as a transmission unit (sometimes referred to as a transmission module) when the transceiver unit realizes the transmission function, and may be referred to as a reception unit (sometimes referred to as a reception module) when the transceiver unit realizes the reception function. The transmitting unit and the receiving unit may be the same functional module, which is called a transceiver unit, and which can implement a transmitting function and a receiving function; alternatively, the transmitting unit and the receiving unit may be different functional modules, and the transmitting and receiving unit is a generic term for these functional modules.

In an alternative embodiment, the transceiver unit (or the sending unit) is configured to send second configuration information to the terminal device, where the second configuration information is used to indicate a second C-DRX configuration applied by the terminal device after deactivating a second cell DTX configuration; the second cell DTX configuration is the cell DTX configuration in the current active state; and sending a second signaling to the terminal equipment, wherein the second signaling indicates to deactivate the DTX configuration of the second cell.

The processing unit is used for controlling the receiving and transmitting unit (or the transmitting unit) to transmit second configuration information to the terminal equipment and transmit second signaling to the terminal equipment.

A fifteenth aspect, the communication apparatus may be the terminal device of any one of the first aspects above. The communication device has the functions of the terminal device. The communication means are for example terminal devices, or larger devices comprising terminal devices, or functional modules in terminal devices, such as baseband means or chip systems etc. In an alternative implementation, the communication device includes a baseband device and a radio frequency device. In another alternative implementation, the communication device includes a processing unit (sometimes also referred to as a processing module) and a transceiver unit (sometimes also referred to as a transceiver module). The transceiver unit can realize a transmission function and a reception function, and may be referred to as a transmission unit (sometimes referred to as a transmission module) when the transceiver unit realizes the transmission function, and may be referred to as a reception unit (sometimes referred to as a reception module) when the transceiver unit realizes the reception function. The transmitting unit and the receiving unit may be the same functional module, which is called a transceiver unit, and which can implement a transmitting function and a receiving function; alternatively, the transmitting unit and the receiving unit may be different functional modules, and the transmitting and receiving unit is a generic term for these functional modules.

In an alternative embodiment, the transceiver unit (or the receiving unit) is configured to receive a second signaling from the network device, where the second signaling is configured to instruct to deactivate a second cell DTX configuration, and the second cell DTX configuration is configured as a cell DTX configuration in a current active state; a processing unit, configured to deactivate the second cell DTX configuration according to the second signaling, and apply a second C-DRX configuration or deactivate a currently applied C-DRX configuration; wherein,,

In a possible implementation manner, the second signaling carries an identifier of the second C-DRX configuration, and the transceiver unit (or the receiving unit) is further configured to receive a plurality of C-DRX configurations from a network device and identifiers corresponding to the plurality of C-DRX configurations respectively, where the plurality of C-DRX configurations includes the second C-DRX configuration.

In one possible implementation, the processing unit applies the second C-DRX configuration, including: applying the second C-DRX configuration while deactivating the second cell DTX configuration; or after deactivating the second cell DTX configuration, applying the second C-DRX configuration at a second point in time, the second point in time being protocol specified or the second point in time being carried in the second signaling; or after deactivating the second cell DTX configuration, delaying a second duration and reapplying the second C-DRX configuration; the second duration is protocol specified or carried in the second signaling.

In a sixteenth aspect, a communication device is provided. The communication means may be a network device according to any implementation manner of the second aspect. The communication device has the functions of the network device. The communication means are for example network devices, or larger devices comprising network devices, or functional modules in network devices, such as baseband means or chip systems etc. In an alternative implementation, the communication device includes a baseband device and a radio frequency device. In another alternative implementation, the communication device includes a processing unit (sometimes also referred to as a processing module) and a transceiver unit (sometimes also referred to as a transceiver module). The transceiver unit can realize a transmission function and a reception function, and may be referred to as a transmission unit (sometimes referred to as a transmission module) when the transceiver unit realizes the transmission function, and may be referred to as a reception unit (sometimes referred to as a reception module) when the transceiver unit realizes the reception function. The transmitting unit and the receiving unit may be the same functional module, which is called a transceiver unit, and which can implement a transmitting function and a receiving function; alternatively, the transmitting unit and the receiving unit may be different functional modules, and the transmitting and receiving unit is a generic term for these functional modules.

In an alternative embodiment, the transceiver unit (or the transmitting unit) is configured to transmit a second signaling to the terminal device, where the second signaling is used to instruct to deactivate the second cell DTX configuration; the second signaling also carries indication information or deactivates a second C-DRX configuration applied by the terminal device after the second cell DTX configuration or an identifier of the second C-DRX configuration; the indication information is used for indicating the terminal equipment to execute any one of the following steps: applying a protocol specified C-DRX configuration after deactivating the second cell DTX configuration; or after deactivating the DTX configuration of the second cell, continuing to apply the C-DRX configuration in the current activated state; or, applying a C-DRX configuration applied before activating the second cell DTX configuration after deactivating the cell DTX configuration; or, the C-DRX configuration in the active state is deactivated after the cell DTX configuration is deactivated.

And the processing unit is used for generating a second signaling and controlling the receiving and transmitting unit (or the transmitting unit) to transmit the second signaling to the terminal equipment.

A seventeenth aspect provides a communication device, which may be a terminal device or a chip system for use in a terminal device. The communication device comprises a communication interface and a processor, and optionally a memory. Wherein the memory is configured to store a computer program, and the processor is coupled to the memory and the communication interface, and when the processor reads the computer program or instructions, the processor causes the communication device to perform the method performed by the terminal device in the above aspects.

In an eighteenth aspect, a communication apparatus is provided, which may be a network device, or a chip system for use in a network device. The communication device comprises a communication interface and a processor, and optionally a memory. Wherein the memory is configured to store a computer program, and the processor is coupled to the memory and the communication interface, and when the processor reads the computer program or instructions, the processor causes the communication device to perform the method performed by the network device in the above aspects.

A nineteenth aspect provides a communication system comprising a terminal device for performing the method performed by the terminal device according to any one of the first, third, fifth and seventh aspects, and a network device for performing the method performed by the network device according to any one of the second, fourth, sixth and eighth aspects.

In a twentieth aspect, embodiments of the present application provide a computer readable storage medium storing a computer program or instructions that, when executed, cause a terminal device or a network device to perform a method as described in the above aspects.

In a twenty-first aspect, there is provided a computer program product comprising instructions which, when run on a computer, cause the method of the above aspects to be carried out.

In a twenty-second aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides a chip system, including a processor and an interface, where the processor is configured to invoke and execute instructions from the interface, so that the chip system implements the methods of the above aspects.

Further combinations of the present application may be made to provide further implementations based on the implementations provided in the above aspects.

Drawings

In order to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present application, the drawings that are required to be used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly described below.

Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram of cell DTX;

FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of C-DRX;

fig. 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating overlapping of a period of an active period of a C-DRX configuration and a period of a wake-up time (on duration) of a Cell DTX configuration;

fig. 4A is a schematic diagram of a communication system according to an embodiment of the present application;

fig. 4B is another schematic diagram of a communication system provided in an embodiment of the present application;

fig. 5 is a schematic flow chart of a communication method under an applicable activation scenario provided in an embodiment of the present application;

fig. 6 is a schematic flow chart of a communication method provided in example 1 of the embodiment of the present application;

fig. 7 is a schematic flow chart of a communication method provided in example 2 of the embodiment of the present application;

fig. 8 is a schematic flow chart of a communication method provided in example 3 of the embodiment of the present application;

fig. 9 is a schematic flow chart of a communication method under a suitable deactivation scenario provided in an embodiment of the present application;

fig. 10 is a schematic flow chart of a communication method in another suitable activation/handover scenario provided in an embodiment of the present application;

fig. 11 is a schematic flow chart of a communication method in another suitable deactivation scenario provided in an embodiment of the present application;

Fig. 12 is a schematic flow chart of a communication method in another suitable deactivation scenario provided in an embodiment of the present application;

fig. 13 is a schematic diagram of an apparatus 1300 according to an embodiment of the present application;

fig. 14 is a schematic diagram of an apparatus 1400 according to an embodiment of the present application.

Detailed Description

The technical solutions in the embodiments of the present application will be described below with reference to the drawings in the embodiments of the present application.

Wherein, in the description of the present application, unless otherwise indicated, "a plurality" means two or more than two. In addition, "/" indicates that the associated object is an "or" relationship, e.g., A/B may represent A or B; the term "and/or" in this application is merely a kind of association information describing the associated object, and means that three kinds of relationships may exist, for example, a and/or B may mean: there are three cases, a alone, a and B together, and B alone, wherein a, B may be singular or plural. In addition, in order to clearly describe the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present application, in the embodiments of the present application, the words "first", "second", and the like are used to distinguish the same item or similar items having substantially the same function and effect. It will be appreciated by those of skill in the art that the words "first," "second," and the like do not limit the amount and order of execution, and that the words "first," "second," and the like do not necessarily differ. It should also be noted that, unless specifically stated otherwise, a specific description of some features in one embodiment may also be applied to explaining other embodiments to mention corresponding features.

In the following, some terms or concepts in the embodiments of the present application are explained for easy understanding by those skilled in the art.

(1) In this embodiment of the present application, the terminal device is a device with a wireless transceiver function, and may be a fixed device, a mobile device, a handheld device (for example, a mobile phone), a wearable device, an on-board device, or a wireless apparatus (for example, a communication module, a modem, or a chip system) built in the above device. The terminal device is used for connecting people, objects, machines and the like, and can be widely used in various scenes, including but not limited to the following scenes: cellular communication, device-to-device (D2D), V2X, machine-to-machine/machine-like communication (M2M/MTC), internet of things (internet of things, ioT), virtual Reality (VR), augmented reality (augmented reality, AR), industrial control (industrial control), unmanned driving (self driving), remote medical (remote medical), smart grid (smart grid), smart furniture, smart office, smart wear, smart traffic, smart city (smart city), end devices for scenes such as unmanned aerial vehicle, robot, etc. The terminal device may sometimes be referred to as a UE, a terminal, an access station, a UE station, a remote station, a wireless communication device, or a user equipment, among others.

(2) The network device in the embodiment of the application comprises an access network device and/or a core network device, for example. The access network equipment is equipment with a wireless receiving and transmitting function and is used for communicating with the terminal equipment. The access network devices include, but are not limited to, base stations (base transceiver stations (base transceiver station, BTS), node B, eNodeB/eNB, or gNodeB/gNB), transceiver points (transmission reception point, TRP), base stations for subsequent evolution of the third generation partnership project (3rd generation partnership project,3GPP), access nodes in wireless fidelity (wireless fidelity, wi-Fi) systems, wireless relay nodes, wireless backhaul nodes, and the like. The base station may be: macro base station, micro base station, pico base station, small station, relay station, etc. Multiple base stations may support networks of the same access technology or may support networks of different access technologies. A base station may comprise one or more co-sited or non-co-sited transmission reception points. The access network device may also be a radio controller, a Centralized Unit (CU), and/or a Distributed Unit (DU) in the context of a cloud radio access network (cloud radio access network, CRAN). The access network device may also be a server or the like. For example, the network device in the vehicle-to-everything (vehicle to everything, V2X) technology may be a Road Side Unit (RSU). The following describes an access network device using a base station as an example. The base station may communicate with the terminal device or may communicate with the terminal device through the relay station. A terminal device may communicate with multiple base stations in different access technologies. The core network device is used for realizing the functions of mobile management, data processing, session management, policy and charging, etc. The names of devices implementing the core network function in the systems of different access technologies may be different, and the embodiments of the present application are not limited to this. Taking the fifth generation (the 5th generation,5G) mobile communication system as an example, the core network device includes: access and mobility management functions (access and mobility management function, AMF), session management functions (session management function, SMF), policy control functions (policy control function, PCF) or user plane functions (user plane function, UPF), etc.

In the embodiment of the present application, the communication device for implementing the function of the network device may be a network device, or may be a device capable of supporting the network device to implement the function, for example, a chip system, and the device may be installed in the network device. In the technical solution provided in the embodiments of the present application, the device for implementing the function of the network device is exemplified by the network device, and the technical solution provided in the embodiments of the present application is described.

(3) Cell discontinuous transmission (cell discontinuous transmission, cell DTX):

the cell managed by the network device performs downlink transmission with the terminal device only in a designated time period, and does not perform downlink transmission in other time periods, so as to realize energy saving of the network device. Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram of cell DTX. As shown in fig. 1, cell 1 employs a periodic cell DTX configuration. Active and inactive periods in a cell DTX configuration. The activation period is a period of cell DTX on (cell DTX on). The inactive period is a period of time when the cell DTX is off (off). In the cell DTX on period, the cell 1 performs downlink transmission, including downlink service data transmission with the terminal device. During the cell DTX off period, cell 1 at least stops transmitting downlink traffic data with the terminal device. In some scenarios, during the period of cell DTX off, transmission of certain signals that need to be periodically transmitted, including at least one of synchronization signal block (synchronization signal block, SSB), downlink channel state information reference signal (CSI-RS), semi-persistent scheduling (semi-persistent scheduling, SPS), is also stopped. It can be understood that the longer the cell DTX off period, the longer the turn-off duration that the network device can take, and the deeper the turn-off depth, so as to obtain a better energy saving effect. But increases the delay of the traffic transmission of the terminal device.

(4) Discontinuous reception in connected state (connected discontinuous reception, C-DRX):

the C-DRX technique allows a terminal device to periodically enter a sleep state (sleep mode) while in an RRC connected state. When the terminal equipment enters the sleep state, the physical downlink control channel (physical downlink control channel, PDCCH) is not monitored, and when the physical downlink control channel needs to be monitored, the terminal equipment wakes up (wake up) from the sleep state, so that the purpose of saving electricity can be achieved by the terminal equipment.

The network device may configure a C-DRX cycle, also referred to as a C-DRX cycle, for the terminal device. The C-DRX cycle includes a wake-up period (On Duration) and a sleep period (which may also be referred to as Opportunity for DRX). Fig. 2 shows a schematic diagram of C-DRX. As shown in fig. 2, the period of time identified as On Duration is the time when the terminal device listens to the PDCCH, and during the period of time of On Duration, the terminal device is in an awake state and belongs to an active period. The On Duration may also be referred to as a wake-up time. During the sleep period, the terminal device enters a sleep state for power saving and no longer monitors the PDCCH.

The active period of C-DRX may include the running time of a DRX Inactivity Timer (DRX-Inactivity Timer) and the running time of a DRX waiting retransmission Timer (DRX-Retransmission Timer) in addition to the periodic occurrence of wake-up time (On Duration).

It should be noted that the terminal device is in the active period when the terminal device is in onDuration (or drx-On Duration Timer is running), drx-Inactivity Timer is running, or drx-Retransmission Timer is running.

The respective time parameters related to C-DRX are explained as follows.

a、drx-onDurationTimer：

Starting from the starting subframe of the C-DRX cycle, the terminal equipment needs to monitor the duration of the PDCCH continuously.

b、drx-InactivityTimer：

In the onDuration of the DRX active period, when the terminal device performs uplink data transmission or downlink data transmission scheduling, the network device starts or restarts a timer, i.e. the DRX-incarvitytimer, and the terminal device continuously monitors the PDCCH in the running time of the DRX-incarvitytimer (i.e. is always in an active state) until the DRX-incarvitytimer is timed out.

When a terminal device is scheduled and receives or transmits data in a certain time slot, it is likely to continue to be scheduled in the next few time slots.

It is assumed that in the last subframe of On Duration of the C-DRX, the network device needs to send a service data with a larger data amount to the terminal device, and these service data cannot be completely transmitted in the current On Duration period. If the DRX-InactigityTimer is not configured, the terminal device will enter the sleep period of C-DRX and will not receive any downlink data from the network device. The network device can only wait until the end of the current C-DRX cycle, and when the next On Duration time arrives, continue to send data that is not transmitted in the last C-DRX cycle to the terminal device, which obviously increases the delay of the whole data transmission process. To avoid this, a DRX-InactivityTimer timer is added to the C-DRX mechanism, which is started (or restarted) if new data needs to be scheduled. The drx-InactivityTimer is used for reducing the processing delay of data.

c、drx-RetransmissionTimer：

When decoding of a Transport Block (TB) of a certain downlink hybrid automatic repeat request (Hybrid Automatic Repeat reQuest, HARQ) process fails, the terminal may assume that there is no retransmission after at least "round-trip time (RTT)" according to a retransmission mechanism. Therefore, when the corresponding Timer of the HARQ RTT, i.e. drx-HARQ-RTT-Timer, is running, the terminal device does not have to monitor the PDCCH. When the drx-HARQ-RTT-Timer is overtime and the decoding of the data received by the corresponding HARQ process fails, the terminal equipment starts a drx-retransmission Timer for the HARQ process. The drx-retransmission timer represents the longest time for which the terminal device waits for a retransmission. When the drx-retransmission timer runs, the terminal device listens to the PDCCH for HARQ retransmission.

Referring to table 1, a start (or restart) condition and a stop trigger condition of each Timer associated with the C-DRX configuration are exemplarily described.

TABLE 1

When a network device configures a C-DRX for a terminal device, the terminal device periodically enters a wake-up time (belonging to an active period and extending the active period according to a certain rule) according to the configuration of the C-DRX, monitors a PDCCH during the active period, and does not monitor the PDCCH during a non-active period (or a sleep period) to save energy of the terminal device. However, when the Cell activates the Cell DTX and there is no overlap between the active period in the C-DRX configuration of the terminal device and the wake-up time (on duration) period in the Cell DTX configuration, the network device may not dynamically schedule the terminal device, or may affect the dynamic scheduling efficiency. And the terminal device monitors the PDCCH in a time period when the network device does not send the PDCCH, which is not beneficial to energy saving of the terminal device. Referring to fig. 3, a schematic diagram of overlapping a period of an active period of a C-DRX configuration with a period of a wake-up time (on duration) of a Cell DTX configuration is shown. In fig. 3 three terminal devices are attached to cell 1 as an example. The three terminal devices are terminal devices 1-3, respectively. In one possible way, the C-DRX is reconfigured for each terminal device by RRC reconfiguration messages before or after activation or deactivation of the C-DRX configuration. But this way reconfiguration is inefficient and cannot adapt to the dynamic activation or deactivation of the cell DTX configuration. Therefore, there is currently no efficient way to adapt the dynamically activated C-DRX configuration of the cell DTX configuration.

In view of this, the embodiments of the present application provide a communication method and apparatus, and provide a highly efficient C-DRX configuration mode adapted to dynamic activation or deactivation of cell DTX configuration. In one mode, the association relation between the cell DTX configuration and the C-DRX configuration is preconfigured. In another approach, a manner of indicating an associated C-DRX configuration in signaling is employed.

The technical solution provided in the embodiments of the present application may be applied to a fourth generation mobile communication technology (the 4th generation,4G) system, for example, an LTE system, or may be applied to a 5G system, for example, an NR system, or may also be applied to a next generation mobile communication system or other similar communication systems, for example, a sixth generation mobile communication technology (the 6th generation,6G) system, or the like, and is not specifically limited. The technical scheme provided by the embodiment of the application can be applied to SL transmission processes, such as D2D scenes, such as LTE-D2D scenes or NR-D2D scenes, or V2X scenes, such as NR-V2X scenes. For example, the method can be used in the fields of intelligent driving, auxiliary driving, intelligent network connection and the like.

Illustratively, fig. 4A is a schematic diagram of a communication system suitable for use in embodiments of the present application. The communication system may include at least one network device, such as network device 101 shown in fig. 4A. The communication system 100 may also include at least one terminal device. In fig. 4A, three terminal apparatuses are taken as an example, and are respectively terminal apparatus 102, terminal apparatus 103, and terminal apparatus 104. The network device 101 may communicate with the terminal device 102, the terminal device 103, and the terminal device 104, respectively, using radio resources to provide network services for the terminal devices. The network device 101 may manage one or more cells, such as cell 105, cell 106 shown in fig. 4A, with different coverage areas for different cells. For example, network device 101 may communicate with terminal device 102 via cell 105 and with terminal device 103 in cell 106 via cell 106. The coverage areas of the two cells as shown in fig. 4A partially overlap, and the coverage area of the two cells may also be that of one cell may include that of the other.

Illustratively, fig. 4B is another schematic diagram of a communication system suitable for use in embodiments of the present application. By including at least one network device in the system. Such as network device 110 shown in fig. 4B. The network device 110 includes therein DUs and CUs. The communication system may further comprise at least one terminal device. In fig. 4B, three terminal apparatuses are taken as an example, namely, terminal apparatus 112, terminal apparatus 113, and terminal apparatus 114.

In some embodiments, a core network device, such as an AMF or a UPF, may be further included in the communication system. Fig. 4A and fig. 4B are only an example of a communication system to which the embodiments of the present application are applied, and the device configuration in fig. 4A and fig. 4B does not represent the actual configuration of the network device and the terminal device.

In order to better describe the embodiments of the present application, the methods provided by the embodiments of the present application are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The schemes provided in the embodiments of the present application are described below in connection with an active cell DTX configuration scenario and a inactive cell DTX configuration scenario.

Fig. 5 is a schematic flow chart of a communication method under an applicable activation scenario according to an embodiment of the present application. Fig. 5 illustrates an example of a method of pre-configuring the association between the cell DTX configuration and the C-DRX configuration.

In step 501, the network device sends first configuration information to the terminal device. Correspondingly, the terminal device receives the first configuration information from the network device. The first configuration information may be carried in an RRC message.

The first configuration information is used for indicating the association relation between the first cell DTX configuration and the first C-DRX configuration. Or the first configuration information indicates association information of the first DTX configuration with the first C-DRX configuration. Wherein the period of the active period of the first DTX configuration indication comprises a period of the awake period of the first C-DRX configuration indication.

The serving cell of the terminal device is illustratively cell 1, and the network device may send the first configuration information to the terminal device through cell 1.

In some application scenarios, the network device includes a DU and a CU. The network device may send the first configuration information to the terminal device via the CU. For example, the CU may send the first configuration information to the terminal device through an RRC message.

In one example, the first configuration information in the CU may be sent by the DU to the CU over the F1 interface. In another example, the CU itself may determine the DTX configuration and/or the C-DRX configuration of the terminal device of the current cell according to the DTX situation of the surrounding cells. In yet another example, the CU may also receive the first configuration information from other network devices through AMF or UPF. In yet another example, the CU may also receive the first configuration information from other network devices through the XN interface.

In step 502, the network device sends a first signaling to the terminal device. Correspondingly, the terminal device receives the first signaling from the network device. The first signaling is used to indicate activation of the first cell DTX configuration.

The first signaling may be cell DTX configuration activation signaling or cell DTX configuration change signaling. The cell DTX configuration change signaling may also be referred to as cell DTX configuration switch signaling.

The cell DTX configuration activation signaling instructs the terminal device to activate the first cell DTX configuration. The cell DTX configuration change signaling instructs the terminal device to change from a previously applied cell DTX configuration to activate the first cell DTX configuration.

The first signaling may be cell-level signaling, i.e. the network device broadcasts the first signaling through cell 1. The first signaling may also be multicast signaling, which the network device multicasts through cell 1. The terminal equipment group comprises the terminal equipment. The first signaling may also be unicast signaling.

In step 503, the terminal device activates the first cell DTX configuration and applies the first C-DRX configuration according to the first configuration information.

Specifically, the terminal device applies the first C-DRX configuration according to the first configuration information, which may be understood as that the terminal device applies the first C-DRX configuration associated with the first cell DTX configuration.

The scheme provided by the embodiment of the application provides an efficient and dynamically activated C-DRX configuration mode for adapting cell DTX configuration. The embodiment of the application adopts the pre-configuration mode to pre-configure the association between the cell DTX configuration and the C-DRX configuration, so that the C-DRX configuration is applied according to the pre-configured association when the cell DTX configuration is activated. To adjust the C-DRX configuration quickly and efficiently when activating the cell DTX configuration.

In step 503 above, the terminal device may have a time relation between activating the first cell DTX configuration and applying the first C-DRX configuration. Or it may be understood that the first C-DRX configuration is applied when the terminal device activates the first cell DTX configuration and in case the condition for applying the first C-DRX configuration is met.

In a possible example, the terminal device may apply the first C-DRX configuration (immediately) upon activating the first cell DTX configuration.

In another possible example, the terminal device may delay the first time period after activating the first cell DTX configuration and then apply the first C-DRX configuration. For example, the first duration may comprise one or more time units. The time unit may be a subframe, a slot, or a symbol. The first time length may be a time unit, and the time unit may be milliseconds (ms), seconds(s), or the like.

In yet another possible example, the terminal device may reapply the first C-DRX configuration at a first point in time after activating the first cell DTX configuration. The first point in time may be a specific time cell configuration of the configuration. For example, the first time point may be a starting time of a next time unit of the time unit where the first signaling is received, and the time unit may be a time slot, a subframe, or a frame.

In one possible implementation, the present embodiments illustratively provide several possible ways of configuring the association of cell DTX configurations with C-DRX configurations.

Example 1:

the network device indicates an associated C-DRX configuration in configuring the cell DTX configuration for the terminal device. The network device may configure one or more cell DTX configurations for the terminal device. At least one of the one or more cell DTX configurations indicates an associated C-DRX configuration. Taking the first cell DTX configuration as an example, the first configuration information includes the first cell DTX configuration. The first cell DTX configuration includes a first C-DRX configuration or an identification of the first C-DRX configuration. The first C-DRX configuration may be understood as a C-DRX configuration applied by the terminal device in an active state of the first cell DRX configuration.

Referring to fig. 6, a flow chart of a communication method provided in example 1 of an embodiment of the present application is shown. Cell DTX activation signaling is exemplified in fig. 6.

In step 601, the network device sends a first cell DTX configuration to the terminal device, the first cell DTX configuration comprising a first C-DRX configuration or an identity of the first C-DRX configuration.

In some possible scenarios, the network device sends a plurality of cell DTX configurations to the terminal device, including the first cell DTX configuration. In other possible scenarios, the network device configures only one cell DTX configuration, i.e. the first cell DTX configuration, to the terminal device.

In some application scenarios, the network device includes a DU and a CU. The CU of the network device may send a first cell DTX configuration to the terminal device. For example, the CU may send the first configuration information to the terminal device through an RRC message. In one example, the first cell DTX configuration and/or the first C-DRX configuration in the CU may be sent by the DU to the CU over the F1 interface. In another example, the CU itself may determine the cell DTX configuration and/or the first C-DRX configuration of the terminal device of the current cell according to the DTX situation of the surrounding cells. In yet another example, the CU may also receive the first cell DTX configuration and/or the first C-DRX configuration from other network devices through AMF or UPF. In yet another example, the CU may also receive the first cell DTX configuration and/or the first C-DRX configuration from other network devices over the XN interface.

In other application scenarios, the network device may receive the first cell DTX configuration and/or the first C-DRX configuration from other network devices via an AMF or UPF. The network device may also receive the first cell DTX configuration and/or the first C-DRX configuration from other network devices over the XN interface.

The cell DTX configuration also illustratively includes one or more of the following parameters (1-1) -parameters (1-4).

Parameter (1-1): identification of cell DRX configuration. In some possible scenarios, only one cell DTX configuration is configured for one terminal device, in which case the identity of the cell DRX configuration may not be included in the cell DRX configuration.

Parameters (1-2): period of cell DTX. In some possible scenarios, where the network device configures only one cell DTX configuration for the terminal device, the period of cell DTX may employ a protocol-specified period when the cell DRX configuration does not include the parameter. In other possible scenarios, where the network device configures multiple cell DTX configurations for the terminal device, the period of one cell DTX may be the period indicated in the other cell DTX configuration, or may be a period specified by the protocol.

Parameters (1-3): time domain offset (offset) and duration of the start of the active period of cell DTX. Alternatively, parameter (3) is the time domain offset and duration of the end of the active period of the cell DTX. Alternatively, the duration may be indicated in the form of a timer. In some possible scenarios, where the network device configures only one cell DTX configuration for the terminal device, the parameter (1-3) may be specified in a protocol when the first cell DRX configuration does not include the parameter. In some possible scenarios, where the network device configures multiple cell DTX configurations for the terminal device, the parameter (3) may be specified by the protocol or the parameter (3) indicated in the other cell DTX configuration may be employed when the first cell DRX configuration does not include the parameter.

Parameters (1-4): cell DTX inactive period, signal and/or signaling not transmitted by the cell. Such as SSB, CSI-RS, or semi-persistent scheduling SPS, etc. In some possible scenarios, where the network device configures only one cell DTX configuration for the terminal device, the first cell DRX may be protocol specified when the first cell DRX configuration does not include the parameter. In other possible scenarios, where the network device configures multiple cell DTX configurations for the terminal device, the parameters (3) specified by the protocol or indicated in other cell DTX configurations may be employed when the first cell DRX configuration does not include the parameters.

Illustratively, the first C-DRX configuration may include one or more of the following parameters (2-1) -parameters (2-4).

Parameter (2-1): identification of the first C-DRX configuration.

Parameter (2-2): a cycle of the first C-DRX. In some possible scenarios, where the network device configures a C-DRX configuration for the terminal device, the period of the first C-DRX may be specified using a protocol when the first C-DRX configuration does not include the parameter. In other possible scenarios, where the network device configures multiple C-DRX configurations for the terminal device, the period of the first C-DRX may employ a protocol-specified period, or employ a period indicated in other C-DRX configurations, when the first C-DRX configuration does not include the parameter.

Parameters (2-3): time domain offset and duration of the beginning of the wake-up period of C-DRX. Alternatively, the parameter (2-3) is the time domain offset and duration of the end of the wake-up period of the cell DTX. Alternatively, the duration may be indicated in the form of a timer, such as a direct indication drx-on duration timer. In some possible scenarios, where the network device configures a C-DRX configuration for the terminal device, the parameter (2-3) may be specified using a protocol when the first C-DRX configuration does not include the parameter. In other possible scenarios, where the network device configures multiple cell DTX configurations for the terminal device, the parameter values specified by the protocol, or indicated in other C-DRX configurations, may be employed when the first cell DRX configuration does not include the parameter.

Parameters (2-4): drx-Inactivity Timer. In some possible scenarios, where the network device configures a C-DRX configuration for the terminal device, the parameter (2-4) may be specified using a protocol when the first C-DRX configuration does not include the parameter. In other possible scenarios, where the network device configures multiple cell DTX configurations for the terminal device, the parameter values specified by the protocol, or indicated in other C-DRX configurations, may be employed when the first cell DRX configuration does not include the parameter.

Parameters (2-5): drx-Retransmission Timer. In some possible scenarios, where the network device configures a C-DRX configuration for the terminal device, the parameter (2-5) may be specified using a protocol when the first C-DRX configuration does not include the parameter. In other possible scenarios, where the network device configures multiple cell DTX configurations for the terminal device, the parameter values specified by the protocol, or indicated in other C-DRX configurations, may be employed when the first cell DRX configuration does not include the parameter.

In step 602, the network device sends cell DTX configuration activation signaling to the terminal device.

Step 603, after receiving the cell DTX configuration activation signaling, the terminal device activates the first cell DTX configuration and applies the first C-DRX configuration. See description of step 503 above, which is not further described herein.

In a possible implementation, in case that only the identity of the first C-DRX configuration is indicated in the first cell DTX configuration, step 601a is further comprised before step 601.

In step 601a, the network device sends a plurality of C-DRX configurations to the terminal device. The plurality of C-DRX configurations correspond to different identities, respectively. The plurality of C-DRX configurations includes a first C-DRX configuration. Accordingly, the terminal device receives a plurality of C-DRX configurations. At least one of the above parameters (2-1) -parameters (2-4) may be included in each of the plurality of C-DRX configurations. Further, the network device carries the identifier of the first C-DRX configuration in the first cell DTX configuration, so that when the network device applies the first C-DRX configuration, the network device may determine, from the plurality of C-DRX configurations, a first C-DRX configuration corresponding to the identifier of the first C-DRX configuration, and thereby apply the first C-DRX configuration.

Example 2:

the network device indicates the associated at least one cell DTX configuration in configuring the terminal device with the C-DRX configuration. The network device may configure one or more C-DRX configurations for the terminal device. At least one of the one or more C-DRX configurations indicates an associated cell DTX configuration. Taking as an example the first C-DRX configuration indicates the associated at least one cell DTX configuration. Specifically, the first configuration information includes a first C-DRX configuration. The first C-DRX configuration includes at least one cell DTX configuration or an identification of at least one cell DTX configuration. It is to be appreciated that any one of the at least one cell DTX configuration applies the first C-DRX configuration in an active state.

Referring to fig. 7, a flow chart of a communication method provided in example 2 of the embodiment of the present application is shown. Cell DTX activation signaling is exemplified in fig. 7.

Step 701, a network device sends a first C-DRX configuration to a terminal device, the first C-DRX configuration comprising at least one cell DTX configuration or an identity of the at least one cell DTX configuration.

In some possible scenarios, a network device sends a plurality of C-DRX configurations to a terminal device, the plurality of C-DRX configurations including a first C-DRX configuration. In other possible scenarios, the network device configures only one C-DRX configuration, i.e. the first C-DRX configuration, to the terminal device. The first C-DRX configuration may comprise at least one of the above-mentioned parameters (2-1) -parameters (2-5), in addition to at least one cell DTX configuration or an identification of at least one DTX configuration.

Each of the at least one cell DTX configuration may comprise at least one of the above mentioned parameters (1-1) -parameters (1-4).

In other application scenarios, the network device may receive multiple cell DTX configurations and/or first C-DRX configurations from other network devices via an AMF or UPF. The network device may also receive multiple cell DTX configurations and/or first C-DRX configurations from other network devices over the XN interface.

In step 702, the network device sends cell DTX configuration activation signaling to the terminal device. Cell DTX configuration activation signaling is used to indicate activation of the first cell DTX configuration. Alternatively, the cell DTX configuration activation signaling may include an identification of the first cell DTX configuration.

In step 703, after receiving the cell DTX configuration activation signaling, the terminal device activates the first cell DTX configuration and applies the first C-DRX configuration. See description of step 503 above, which is not further described herein.

In a possible implementation, in case that only the identity of the first C-DRX configuration is indicated in the first cell DTX configuration, step 701a is further comprised before step 701.

In step 701a, the network device sends a plurality of cell DTX configurations to the terminal device. The multiple cell DTX configurations correspond to different identities, respectively. The plurality of cell DTX configurations includes a first cell DTX configuration. Correspondingly, the terminal device receives a plurality of cell DTX configurations. At least one of the above parameters (1-1) -parameters (1-4) may be included in each of the plurality of cell DTX configurations. Further, the network device carries the identifier of the first C-DRX configuration in the first cell DTX configuration, so that when the network device applies the first C-DRX configuration, the network device may determine, from the multiple cell DTX configurations, the first C-DRX configuration corresponding to the identifier of the first C-DRX configuration, and thereby apply the first C-DRX configuration.

Example 3:

the network device indicates to the terminal device an identity of the first C-DRX configuration and an identity of at least one cell DTX configuration associated with the identity of the first C-DRX configuration. The network device may configure the terminal device with an association of the identities of the one or more sets of C-DRX configurations with the identities of the cell DTX configurations. The association of the identity of the first C-DRX configuration and the identity of the at least one cell DTX configuration may be understood as a set of associations. It is to be appreciated that any one of the at least one cell DTX configuration applies the first C-DRX configuration in an active state.

Referring to fig. 8, a flow chart of a communication method provided in example 3 of the embodiment of the present application is shown. Cell DTX activation signaling is exemplified in fig. 8.

In step 801, a network device sends one or more C-DRX configurations to a terminal device. Wherein different C-DRX configurations correspond to different identifications. Accordingly, the terminal device receives one or more C-DRX configurations from the network device. Wherein each of the one or more C-DRX configurations may include at least one of the above-described parameters (2-1) -parameters (2-5).

Step 802, the network device sends one or more cell DTX configurations to the terminal device. Wherein different cell DTX configurations correspond to different identities. Accordingly, the terminal device receives one or more cell DTX configurations from the network device.

Wherein each of the one or more cell DTX configurations may comprise at least one of the above-mentioned parameters (1-1) -parameters (1-5).

Step 803, the network device sends first configuration information to the terminal device, the first configuration information comprising an identity of the first C-DRX configuration and an identity of at least one cell DTX configuration associated with the identity of the first C-DRX configuration. The first C-DRX configuration is one of the one or more C-DRX configurations. The at least one cell DTX configuration is at least one of the one or more cell DTX configurations.

Step 804-step 805, see step 602-step 603, are not described here.

Note that, in the embodiment of the present application, the sequence between the step 801 and the step 802 is not specifically limited, and the step 801 may precede the step 802, or the step 802 may precede the step 801.

Fig. 9 is a schematic flow chart of a communication method suitable for a deactivation scenario according to an embodiment of the present application.

In step 901, the network device sends second configuration information to the terminal device. Correspondingly, the terminal device receives the second configuration information from the network device. The second configuration information indicates a C-DRX configuration applied by the terminal device after deactivating the cell DTX configuration. For convenience of distinction, the C-DRX configuration applied by the terminal device after performing the deactivation cell DTX configuration operation is referred to as a second C-DRX configuration.

The second configuration information may include, for example, a second C-DRX configuration or an identification of a second C-DRX configuration applied by the terminal device after deactivating the cell DTX configuration.

In step 902, the network device sends a cell DTX configuration deactivation signaling to the terminal device. Correspondingly, the terminal device receives the cell DTX configuration deactivation signaling from the network device. The cell DTX configuration deactivation signaling is used to indicate that the cell DTX configuration currently in an active state is deactivated. Here, for convenience of description, the cell DTX configuration currently in the active state is referred to as a second cell DTX configuration.

In step 903, the terminal device deactivates the second cell DTX configuration and applies the second C-DRX configuration.

In step 903 described above, the terminal device may have a time relation between deactivating the second cell DTX configuration and applying the second C-DRX configuration. Or it may be understood that the second C-DRX configuration is applied when the terminal device deactivates the second cell DTX configuration and in case the condition for applying the second C-DRX configuration is met.

In a possible example, the terminal device may apply the second C-DRX configuration (immediately) upon deactivating the second cell DTX configuration.

In another possible example, the terminal device may delay the second C-DRX configuration for a second duration after deactivating the second cell DTX configuration. For example, the second duration may comprise one or more time units. The time unit may be a subframe, a slot, or a symbol. The second time period may also be a time unit, which may be milliseconds (ms), seconds(s), or the like.

In yet another possible example, the terminal device may reapply the second C-DRX configuration at a second point in time after deactivating the second cell DTX configuration. The second point in time may be a specific time unit configuration of the configuration. For example, the second time point may be a starting time of a next time unit of the time unit where the cell DTX configuration deactivation signaling is received, and the time unit may be a time slot, a subframe, or a frame.

In one possible implementation, the network device may configure the terminal device with a signaling message for the C-DRX to which the cell DTX configuration applies in the active state and for the C-DRX to which the cell DTX configuration applies in the inactive state. For example, the first configuration information and the second configuration information may carry one RRC message, or may be carried in messages of different RRC.

As an example, in connection with example 1 above, the network device may indicate in the first cell DTX configuration a first C-DRX to be applied by the terminal device in an active state of the first cell DTX configuration, and a second C-DRX to be applied by the terminal device in a deactivated state of the first cell DTX configuration, respectively.

As another example, in connection with example 2 above, the network device may configure the first C-DRX configuration and the second C-DRX configuration for the terminal device through the configuration information. At least one cell DTX configuration may be included in the first C-DRX configuration to indicate to the terminal device that the first C-DRX configuration is applied in an active state for any of the at least one cell DTX configuration. The second C-DRX configuration does not include a cell DTX configuration to indicate that the terminal device applies the second C-DRX configuration in a deactivated state of any of the at least one cell DTX configuration.

In some possible implementation scenarios, the network device may not configure the C-DRX configuration applied after deactivating the cell DTX configuration for the terminal device, and the terminal device may continue to apply the C-DRX configuration currently in an active state after performing deactivating the second cell DTX configuration after receiving the cell DTX configuration deactivation signaling; or after deactivating the DTX configuration of the second cell, applying C-DRX configuration specified by a protocol; or after deactivating the DTX configuration of the second cell, deactivating the C-DRX configuration in the current activated state; or after the second cell DTX configuration is deactivated, applying the C-DRX configuration applied by the terminal equipment before the second cell DTX configuration is activated.

Fig. 10 is a schematic flow chart of a communication method in another suitable activation/handover scenario according to an embodiment of the present application. In fig. 10, the C-DRX associated with the bearer in signaling is taken as an example. In fig. 10, cell DTX configuration activation signaling is an example.

In step 1001, the network device sends a first cell DTX configuration to the terminal device. Correspondingly, the terminal device receives a first cell DTX configuration from the network device. The first cell DTX configuration comprises at least one of parameters (1-1) -parameters (1-4).

In some embodiments, the network device may configure the terminal device with a plurality of cell DTX configurations including the first cell DTX configuration. The network device may configure only one cell DTX configuration, i.e. the first cell DTX configuration, for the terminal device.

Step 1002, the network device sends cell DTX configuration activation signaling to the terminal device. Correspondingly, the terminal device receives the cell DTX configuration activation signaling from the network device. Cell DTX configuration activation signaling is used to indicate activation of the first cell DTX configuration. The cell DTX configuration activation signaling also indicates a first C-DRX configuration applied when activating the first cell DTX configuration.

For example, the cell DTX configuration activation signaling may be carried in downlink control information (downlink control information, DCI), or in a MAC CE, or in an RRC message, or in other newly defined messages.

In step 1003, the terminal device activates a first cell DTX configuration according to the cell DTX configuration activation signaling and applies a first C-DRX configuration.

The scheme provided by the embodiment of the application provides an efficient and dynamically activated C-DRX configuration mode for adapting cell DTX configuration. The signaling for activating the cell DTX configuration in the embodiments of the present application indicates the C-DRX configuration applied by the cell DTX configuration in the active state. Thereby adjusting the C-DRX quickly and efficiently when activating the cell DTX configuration.

In step 1003 described above, the terminal device may have a time relation between activating the first cell DTX configuration and applying the first C-DRX configuration. Or it may be understood that the first C-DRX configuration is applied when the terminal device activates the first cell DTX configuration and in case the condition for applying the first C-DRX configuration is met. See in particular the relevant description of the corresponding embodiment of fig. 5, which is not repeated here.

The cell DTX configuration activation signaling indicates a first C-DRX configuration applied by the terminal device when the first cell DTX configuration is in an active state, and in one manner, the cell DTX configuration activation signaling carries the first C-DRX configuration. In another approach, the cell DTX configuration activation signaling carries an identification of the first C-DRX configuration.

Optionally, in the case that the identity of the first C-DRX configuration is carried in the cell DTX configuration activation signaling, the network device configures one or more C-DRX configurations for the terminal device in advance. For example, prior to step 1002, the network device also performs step 1001a described above.

In step 1001a, the network device sends one or more C-DRX configurations to the terminal device. Each of the one or more C-DRX configurations corresponds to an identity. The plurality of C-DRX configurations includes a first C-DRX configuration. Further, the terminal device applies the first C-DRX configuration, which may specifically be: the terminal device applies a C-DRX configuration corresponding to the identification of the first C-DRX configuration of the plurality of C-DRX configurations.

In some application scenarios, the network device includes a DU and a CU.

In one possible approach, a CU of a network device may send cell DTX configuration activation signaling to a terminal device. For example, the CU may send cell DTX configuration activation signaling to the terminal device via an RRC message. In one example, the first C-DRX configuration in the cell DTX configuration activation signaling may be sent by the DU to the CU over the F1 interface. Alternatively, the cell DTX configuration activation signaling may be sent by the DU to the CU over the F1 interface. In another example, the CU itself may determine the cell DTX configuration and the first C-DRX configuration of the terminal device of the current cell according to the DTX situation of the surrounding cells. In yet another example, the CU may also receive the first C-DRX configuration from other network devices through AMF or UPF. Alternatively, the CU may also receive cell DTX configuration activation signaling from other network devices through AMF or UPF. In yet another example, the CU may also receive first C-DRX configuration or cell DTX configuration activation signaling from other network devices over the XN interface.

In another possible way, the DU of the network device may send cell DTX configuration activation signaling to the terminal device. For example, a CU may send cell DTX configuration activation signaling to a terminal device through a MAC CE or DCI. In one example, the first C-DRX configuration in the cell DTX configuration activation signaling may be sent by the CU to the DU over the F1 interface. Alternatively, the cell DTX configuration activation signaling may be sent by the CU to the DU over the F1 interface. In another example, it may also be that the DU itself determines the cell DTX configuration and the first C-DRX configuration of the terminal device of the current cell according to the DTX situation of the surrounding cells. In yet another example, the DU may also receive the first C-DRX configuration from other network devices through an AMF or UPF. Alternatively, the DU may also receive cell DTX configuration activation signaling from other network devices through the AMF or UPF. In yet another example, the DU may also receive first C-DRX configuration or cell DTX configuration activation signaling from other network devices over the XN interface.

In other application scenarios, the network device may receive the first C-DRX configuration or cell DTX configuration activation signaling from other network devices via AMF or UPF. The network device may also receive first C-DRX configuration or cell DTX configuration activation signaling from other network devices over the XN interface.

Fig. 11 is a schematic flow chart of another communication method suitable for use in the deactivation scenario provided in the embodiment of the present application.

Step 1101, the network device sends a cell DTX configuration deactivation signaling to the terminal device. Correspondingly, the terminal device receives the cell DTX configuration deactivation signaling from the network device. The cell DTX configuration deactivation signaling is used to indicate that the cell DTX configuration currently in an active state is deactivated. The cell DTX configuration currently in active state may also describe the cell DTX configuration that is currently active. For convenience of description, the cell DTX configuration currently in the active state is referred to herein as a second cell DTX configuration.

For example, the cell DTX configuration deactivation signaling may be carried in downlink control information (downlink control information, DCI), or in a MAC CE, or in an RRC message, or in other newly defined messages.

Optionally, the cell DTX configuration deactivation signaling also carries an identification of the C-DRX configuration applied by the terminal device or the applied C-DRX configuration after deactivating the second cell DTX configuration. For convenience of description, the C-DRX configuration applied by the terminal device after deactivating the second cell DTX configuration is referred to as a second C-DRX configuration, i.e. the cell DTX configuration deactivation signaling carries the second C-DRX configuration or an identity of the second C-DRX configuration.

In step 1102, the terminal device deactivates the second cell DTX configuration and applies the second C-DRX configuration.

In step 1102 above, the terminal device may have a time relationship between deactivating the second cell DTX configuration and applying the second C-DRX configuration. Or it may be understood that the terminal device applies the second C-DRX configuration in case it deactivates the second cell DTX configuration and satisfies the condition for applying the second C-DRX configuration. See in particular the relevant description of the corresponding embodiment of fig. 9, which is not repeated here.

In a possible implementation, in case that only the identity of the second C-DRX configuration is indicated in the cell DTX configuration deactivation signaling, step 1101a is further comprised before step 1101.

In step 1101a, the network device transmits a plurality of C-DRX configurations to the terminal device. The plurality of C-DRX configurations correspond to different identities, respectively. The plurality of C-DRX configurations includes a second C-DRX configuration. Accordingly, the terminal device receives a plurality of C-DRX configurations. At least one of the above parameters (2-1) -parameters (2-4) may be included in each of the plurality of C-DRX configurations. Further, the terminal device applies the second C-DRX configuration, including the terminal device determining, from the plurality of C-DRX configurations, a second C-DRX configuration corresponding to the identity of the second C-DRX configuration, thereby applying the second C-DRX configuration.

In one possible implementation, the network device configures the terminal device with a plurality of C-DRX configurations including both the first C-DRX configuration and the second C-DRX configuration prior to executing the activation command.

In some application scenarios, the network device includes a DU and a CU.

In one possible approach, a CU of a network device may send cell DTX configuration deactivation signaling to a terminal device. For example, the CU may send cell DTX configuration deactivation signaling to the terminal device via an RRC message. In one example, the second C-DRX configuration in the cell DTX configuration deactivation signaling may be sent by the DU to the CU over the F1 interface. Alternatively, the cell DTX configuration deactivation signaling may be sent by the DU to the CU over the F1 interface. In another example, the CU itself may determine the cell DTX configuration and the second C-DRX configuration of the terminal device of the current cell according to the DTX situation of the surrounding cells. In yet another example, the CU may also receive the second C-DRX configuration from other network devices through AMF or UPF. Alternatively, the CU may also receive cell DTX configuration deactivation signaling from other network devices through the AMF or UPF. In yet another example, the CU may also receive second C-DRX configuration or cell DTX configuration deactivation signaling from other network devices over the XN interface.

In another possible way, the DU of the network device may send cell DTX configuration deactivation signaling to the terminal device. For example, a CU may send cell DTX configuration deactivation signaling to a terminal device through a MAC CE or DCI. In one example, the second C-DRX configuration in the cell DTX configuration deactivation signaling may be sent by the CU to the DU over the F1 interface. Alternatively, the cell DTX configuration deactivation signaling may be sent by the CU to the DU over the F1 interface. In another example, it may also be that the DU itself determines the cell DTX configuration and the second C-DRX configuration of the terminal device of the current cell according to the DTX situation of the surrounding cells. In yet another example, the DU may also receive a second C-DRX configuration from other network devices through an AMF or UPF. Alternatively, the DU may also receive cell DTX configuration deactivation signaling from other network devices through the AMF or UPF. In yet another example, the DU may also receive second C-DRX configuration or cell DTX configuration deactivation signaling from other network devices over the XN interface.

In other application scenarios, the network device may receive second C-DRX configuration or cell DTX configuration deactivation signaling from other network devices through AMF or UPF. The network device may also receive second C-DRX configuration or cell DTX configuration deactivation signaling from other network devices over the XN interface.

Fig. 12 is a schematic flow chart of another communication method suitable for use in the deactivation scenario provided in the embodiment of the present application.

Step 1201, the network device sends a cell DTX configuration deactivation signaling to the terminal device. Correspondingly, the terminal device receives the cell DTX configuration deactivation signaling from the network device. The cell DTX configuration deactivation signaling is used to indicate that the cell DTX configuration currently in an active state is deactivated. The cell DTX configuration currently in active state may also describe the cell DTX configuration that is currently active. For convenience of description, the cell DTX configuration currently in the active state is referred to herein as a second cell DTX configuration.

Optionally, the cell DTX configuration deactivation signaling also carries indication information.

The instruction information is used to instruct the terminal device to perform any one of the following operations.

(1): and after the DTX configuration of the cell is deactivated, continuing to apply the C-DRX configuration which is currently in an activated state.

(2): the C-DRX configuration specified by the application protocol after deactivating the cell DTX configuration.

(3): applying C-DRX configuration applied before activating cell DTX configuration after deactivating cell DTX configuration;

(4): deactivating the C-DRX configuration in the active state after deactivating the cell DTX configuration.

In step 1202, the terminal device deactivates the second cell DTX configuration and performs the operation indicated by the indication information.

In some possible embodiments, the network device may not deactivate signaling carrying indication information in DTX configuration, and further, the terminal device may perform any of the above operations (1) - (4) by default.

In one possible implementation manner, the embodiments of the present application provide a scheme in an activation scenario and a scheme in a deactivation scenario may be flexibly combined.

Fig. 13 is a schematic structural diagram of a communication device according to an embodiment of the present application. The communication apparatus 1300 may be a terminal device or circuitry of the terminal device in the embodiment shown in any of the figures 5-12 for implementing the method corresponding to the terminal device in the above-described method embodiments. Alternatively, the communication apparatus 1300 may be a network device or a circuit system of the network device in the embodiment shown in any of fig. 5 to 12, for implementing the method corresponding to the network device in the above-described method embodiment. Specific functions can be seen from the description of the method embodiments described above. One type of circuitry is, for example, a chip system.

The communications apparatus 1300 includes at least one processor 1301. Processor 1301 may be used for internal processing of the device, implementing certain control processing functions. Optionally, processor 1301 includes instructions. Optionally, processor 1301 may store data. Alternatively, the different processors may be separate devices, may be located in different physical locations, and may be located on different integrated circuits. Alternatively, the different processors may be integrated in one or more processors, e.g., integrated on one or more integrated circuits.

Optionally, the communications device 1300 includes one or more memories 1303 to store instructions. Optionally, the memory 1303 may also store data. The processor and the memory may be provided separately or may be integrated.

Optionally, the communications device 1300 includes a communications line 1302, and at least one communications interface 1304. Among them, since the memory 1303, the communication line 1302, and the communication interface 1304 are all selectable items, they are all indicated by dashed lines in fig. 13.

Optionally, the communications device 1300 may also include a transceiver and/or an antenna. Wherein the transceiver may be used to transmit information to or receive information from other devices. The transceiver may be referred to as a transceiver, a transceiver circuit, an input-output interface, etc. for implementing the transceiver function of the communications device 1300 via an antenna. Optionally, the transceiver comprises a transmitter (transmitter) and a receiver (receiver). Illustratively, a transmitter may be used to generate a radio frequency (radio frequency) signal from the baseband signal, and a receiver may be used to convert the radio frequency signal to the baseband signal.

Processor 1301 may include a general purpose central processing unit (central processing unit, CPU), microprocessor, application specific integrated circuit (application specific integrated circuit, ASIC), or one or more integrated circuits for controlling the execution of programs of the present application.

Communication line 1302 may include a path to communicate information between the components described above.

Communication interface 1304, using any transceiver-like device, is used to communicate with other devices or communication networks, such as ethernet, radio access network (radio access network, RAN), wireless local area network (wireless local area networks, WLAN), wired access network, etc.

The memory 1303 may be, but is not limited to, a read-only memory (ROM) or other type of static storage device that can store static information and instructions, a random access memory (random access memory, RAM) or other type of dynamic storage device that can store information and instructions, or an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (electrically erasable programmable read-only memory, EEPROM), a compact disc (compact disc read-only memory) or other optical disc storage, optical disc storage (including compact disc, laser disc, optical disc, digital versatile disc, blu-ray disc, etc.), magnetic disk storage media or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium that can be used to carry or store desired program code in the form of instructions or data structures and that can be accessed by a computer. The memory 1303 may be independent and may be connected to the processor 1301 through a communication line 1302. Alternatively, the memory 1303 may be integrated with the processor 1301.

The memory 1303 is used for storing computer execution instructions for executing the embodiments of the present application, and the processor 1301 controls the execution. The processor 1301 is configured to execute computer-executable instructions stored in the memory 1303, thereby implementing the communication method provided in the foregoing embodiments of the present application.

Alternatively, the computer-executable instructions in the embodiments of the present application may be referred to as application program codes, which are not specifically limited in the embodiments of the present application.

In a particular implementation, processor 1301 may include one or more CPUs, such as CPU0 and CPU1 of FIG. 13, as an embodiment.

In a particular implementation, as one embodiment, communications apparatus 1300 may include a plurality of processors, such as processor 1301 and processor 1305 in fig. 13. Each of these processors may be a single-core (single-CPU) processor or may be a multi-core (multi-CPU) processor. A processor herein may refer to one or more devices, circuits, and/or processing cores for processing data (e.g., computer program instructions).

When the apparatus shown in fig. 13 is a chip, for example, a chip of a terminal device or a chip of a network device, the chip includes a processor 1301 (may further include a processor 1305), a communication line 1302, and a communication interface 1304, and optionally, a memory 1303. For example, the communication interface 1304 may be an input interface, a pin, or a circuit, etc. Memory 1303 may be a register, a cache, or the like. The processor 1301 and the processor 1305 may be one general purpose CPU, microprocessor, ASIC, or one or more integrated circuits for controlling the execution of the programs of the methods of any of the embodiments described above.

The embodiment of the application may divide the functional modules of the apparatus according to the above method example, for example, each functional module may be divided corresponding to each function, or two or more functions may be integrated into one processing module. The integrated modules may be implemented in hardware or in software functional modules. It should be noted that, in the embodiment of the present application, the division of the modules is schematic, which is merely a logic function division, and other division manners may be implemented in actual implementation. For example, in the case of dividing each functional module into respective functional modules by corresponding respective functions, fig. 14 shows a schematic diagram of an apparatus, and the apparatus 1400 may be a terminal device or a network device, or a chip in a terminal device or a chip in a network device, which are involved in each of the above-described method embodiments. The apparatus 1400 comprises a transmitting unit 1401, a processing unit 1402 and a receiving unit 1403.

It should be understood that the apparatus 1400 may be used to implement steps performed by a terminal device or a network device in the method of the embodiments of the present application, and relevant features may refer to the foregoing embodiments, which are not described herein.

Alternatively, the functions/implementation procedures of the transmitting unit 1401, the receiving unit 1403, and the processing unit 1402 in fig. 14 may be implemented by the processor 1301 in fig. 13 calling computer-executed instructions stored in the memory 1303. Alternatively, the functions/implementation of the processing unit 1402 in fig. 14 may be implemented by the processor 1301 in fig. 13 calling computer-executable instructions stored in the memory 1303, and the functions/implementation of the transmitting unit 1401 and the receiving unit 1403 in fig. 14 may be implemented by the communication interface 1304 in fig. 13.

Alternatively, when the apparatus 1400 is a chip or a circuit, the functions/implementation procedures of the transmission unit 1401 and the reception unit 1403 may also be implemented by pins or circuits or the like.

The present application also provides a computer readable storage medium storing a computer program or instructions which, when executed, implement a method performed by a terminal device or a network device in the foregoing method embodiments. Thus, the functions described in the above embodiments may be implemented in the form of software functional units and sold or used as independent products. Based on such understanding, the technical solution of the present application may be embodied in essence or contributing part or part of the technical solution in the form of a software product stored in a storage medium, including several instructions for causing a computer device (which may be a personal computer, a server, or a network device, etc.) to perform all or part of the steps of the methods described in the embodiments of the present application. The storage medium includes: a usb disk, a removable hard disk, a ROM, a RAM, a magnetic disk, or an optical disk, etc.

The present application also provides a computer program product comprising: computer program code which, when run on a computer, causes the computer to perform the method performed by the terminal device or the network device in any of the method embodiments described above.

The embodiment of the application also provides a processing device, which comprises a processor and an interface; the processor is configured to perform a method performed by the terminal device or the network device according to any of the above method embodiments.

In the above embodiments, it may be implemented in whole or in part by software, hardware, firmware, or any combination thereof. When implemented in software, may be implemented in whole or in part in the form of a computer program product. The computer program product includes one or more computer instructions. When loaded and executed on a computer, produces a flow or function in accordance with embodiments of the present application, in whole or in part. The computer may be a general purpose computer, a special purpose computer, a computer network, or other programmable apparatus. The computer instructions may be stored in or transmitted from one computer-readable storage medium to another, for example, by wired (e.g., coaxial cable, optical fiber, digital Subscriber Line (DSL)), or wireless (e.g., infrared, wireless, microwave, etc.). The computer readable storage medium may be any available medium that can be accessed by a computer or a data storage device such as a server, data center, etc. that contains an integration of one or more available media. The usable medium may be a magnetic medium (e.g., a floppy disk, a hard disk, a magnetic tape), an optical medium (e.g., a DVD), or a semiconductor medium (e.g., a Solid State Disk (SSD)), or the like.

The various illustrative logical blocks and circuits described in the embodiments of the present application may be implemented or performed with a general purpose processor, a digital signal processor (digital signal processor, DSP), an application specific integrated circuit (application specific integrated circuit, ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (field-programmable gate array, FPGA), or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof designed to perform the functions described herein. A general purpose processor may be a microprocessor, but in the alternative, the general purpose processor may be any conventional processor, controller, microcontroller, or state machine. A processor may also be implemented as a combination of computing devices, e.g., a digital signal processor and a microprocessor, a plurality of microprocessors, one or more microprocessors in conjunction with a digital signal processor core, or any other similar configuration.

The steps of a method or algorithm described in the embodiments of the present application may be embodied directly in hardware, in a software element executed by a processor, or in a combination of the two. The software elements may be stored in RAM, flash memory, ROM, erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), EEPROM, registers, hard disk, a removable disk, a CD-ROM, or any other form of storage medium known in the art. In an example, a storage medium may be coupled to the processor such that the processor can read information from, and write information to, the storage medium. In the alternative, the storage medium may be integral to the processor. The processor and the storage medium may reside in an ASIC, which may reside in a terminal device. In the alternative, the processor and the storage medium may reside in different components in a terminal device.

These computer program instructions may also be loaded onto a computer or other programmable data processing apparatus to cause a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer or other programmable apparatus to produce a computer implemented process such that the instructions which execute on the computer or other programmable apparatus provide steps for implementing the functions specified in the flowchart flow or flows and/or block diagram block or blocks.

Although the embodiments of the present application have been described in connection with specific features and embodiments thereof, it will be apparent that various modifications and combinations thereof can be made without departing from the scope of the embodiments of the application. Accordingly, the present embodiments and figures are merely exemplary illustrations of the present embodiments as defined in the appended claims and are considered to cover any and all modifications, variations, combinations, or equivalents of the present embodiments as fall within the scope of the present embodiments. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made to the embodiments of the present application without departing from the scope of the embodiments of the present application. Thus, given that such modifications and variations of the embodiments of the present application fall within the scope of the claims of the embodiments of the present application and their equivalents, the embodiments of the present application are intended to include such modifications and variations as well.

Claims

1. A communication method, applied to a terminal device or a module in a terminal device, the method comprising:

receiving first configuration information from a network device, wherein the first configuration information is used for indicating the association information of discontinuous transmission DTX configuration and first connection state-discontinuous reception C-DRX configuration of a first cell;

receiving first signaling from a network device, the first signaling being used to indicate activation of the first cell DTX configuration;

activating the first cell DTX configuration;

and applying the first C-DRX configuration according to the first configuration information.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the first configuration information is used to indicate association information of a first cell discontinuous transmission, DTX, configuration and a first connected-state, discontinuous reception, C-DRX, configuration, comprising:

the first configuration information comprises a first cell DTX configuration, and the first cell DTX configuration comprises the first C-DRX configuration or an identification of the first C-DRX configuration; or,

the first configuration information comprises a first C-DRX configuration, the first C-DRX configuration comprises at least one cell DTX configuration or identifiers respectively corresponding to the at least one cell DTX configuration, and the at least one cell DTX configuration comprises the first cell DTX configuration; or,

3. The method of claim 2, wherein the first configuration information comprises an identification of the first C-DRX configuration, the method further comprising:

receiving a plurality of C-DRX configurations from the network equipment and identifiers respectively corresponding to the plurality of C-DRX configurations, wherein the plurality of C-DRX configurations comprise the first C-DRX configuration;

applying the first C-DRX configuration according to the first configuration information, comprising:

and applying a first C-DRX configuration corresponding to the identification of the first C-DRX configuration in the plurality of C-DRX configurations according to the first configuration information.

4. A method according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the first configuration information comprises an identification of the at least one cell DTX configuration respectively, the method further comprising:

and receiving a plurality of cell DTX configurations from the network equipment and identifiers respectively corresponding to the plurality of cell DTX configurations, wherein the plurality of cell DTX configurations comprise the at least one cell DTX configuration.

5. A method of communication, applied to a network device or a module in a network device, the method comprising:

transmitting first configuration information to a terminal device, wherein the first configuration information is used for indicating the association information of discontinuous transmission DTX configuration and first connection state-discontinuous reception C-DRX configuration of a first cell;

and sending a first signaling to the terminal equipment, wherein the first signaling is used for indicating to activate the DTX configuration of the first cell.

6. The method of claim 5, wherein the first configuration information for indicating association information of a first cell DTX configuration with a first C-DRX configuration comprises:

7. The method of claim 6, wherein the first configuration information comprises an identification of the first C-DRX configuration, the method further comprising:

and sending a plurality of C-DRX configurations and identifiers respectively corresponding to the plurality of C-DRX configurations to the terminal equipment, wherein the plurality of C-DRX configuration information comprises the first C-DRX configuration information.

8. The method of claim 6 or 7, wherein the first configuration information includes an identification to which the at least one cell DTX configuration corresponds, respectively, the method further comprising:

and sending a plurality of cell DTX configurations and identifiers respectively corresponding to the plurality of cell DTX configurations to the terminal equipment, wherein the plurality of C-DRX configurations comprise the at least one cell DTX configuration.

9. A communication method, applied to a terminal device or a module in a terminal device, the method comprising:

receiving a first cell discontinuous transmission, DTX, configuration from a network device;

receiving first signaling from a network device, the first signaling being for indicating to activate the first cell DTX configuration and for indicating a first connected-state-discontinuous reception, C-DRX, configuration applied when activating the first cell DTX configuration;

Activating the cell DTX configuration according to the first signaling, and applying the first C-DRX configuration.

10. The method of claim 9, wherein the first signaling indicates a first connected state discontinuous reception, C-DRX, configuration applied when the first cell DTX configuration is activated, comprising:

11. The method of claim 10, wherein the first signaling carries an identification of the first C-DRX configuration, the method further comprising:

receiving a plurality of C-DRX configurations from a network device and identifiers respectively corresponding to the plurality of C-DRX configurations, wherein the plurality of C-DRX configurations comprise the first C-DRX configuration;

the applying the first C-DRX configuration includes:

and applying the C-DRX configuration corresponding to the identification of the first C-DRX configuration in the plurality of C-DRX configurations.

12. A method of communication, applied to a network device or a module in a network device, the method comprising:

sending a discontinuous transmission DTX configuration of a first cell to a terminal device;

and sending a first signaling to the terminal equipment, wherein the first signaling is used for indicating to activate the first cell DTX configuration and indicating a first connection state-discontinuous reception C-DRX configuration applied by the terminal equipment when the first cell DTX configuration is activated.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein the first signaling indicates a first C-DRX configuration applied by the terminal device when activating the first cell DTX configuration, comprising:

14. The method of claim 13, wherein the first signaling carries an identification of the first C-DRX configuration, the method further comprising:

15. A communication method, characterized by being applied to a terminal device or a module in a terminal device, the method further comprising:

receiving second configuration information from the network device, wherein the second configuration information is used for indicating to deactivate a second C-DRX configuration applied by the terminal device after a second cell DTX configuration, and the second cell DTX configuration is a cell DTX configuration in an active state at present;

receiving second signaling from the network device, the second signaling being for indicating to deactivate the second cell DTX configuration;

Deactivating the second cell DTX configuration;

and applying the second C-DRX configuration according to the second configuration information.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein the second configuration information is used to indicate a second C-DRX configuration applied by the terminal device after deactivating the second cell DTX configuration, comprising:

the second configuration information includes a second C-DRX configuration applied by the terminal device after deactivating the second cell DTX configuration, or an identification of the second C-DRX configuration.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein the second configuration information comprises an identification of the second C-DRX configuration, the method further comprising:

and receiving a plurality of C-DRX configurations from the network equipment and identifiers respectively corresponding to the plurality of C-DRX configurations, wherein the plurality of C-DRX configurations comprise the second C-DRX configuration.

18. A method of communication, applied to a network device or a module in a network device, the method further comprising:

transmitting second configuration information to the terminal equipment, wherein the second configuration information is used for indicating a second C-DRX configuration applied by the terminal equipment after deactivating a second cell DTX configuration; the second cell DTX configuration is the cell DTX configuration in the current active state;

And sending a second signaling to the terminal equipment, wherein the second signaling indicates to deactivate the DTX configuration of the second cell.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein the second configuration information is used to indicate a second C-DRX configuration employed by the terminal device after deactivating the second cell DTX configuration, comprising:

20. The method of claim 19, wherein the second configuration information comprises an identification of the second C-DRX configuration, the method further comprising:

and sending a plurality of C-DRX configurations and identifiers respectively corresponding to the plurality of C-DRX configurations to the terminal equipment, wherein the plurality of C-DRX configuration information comprises the second C-DRX configuration information.

21. A communication method, characterized by being applied to a terminal device or a module in a terminal device, the method further comprising:

receiving a second signaling from the network device, the second signaling being used to instruct to deactivate a second cell DTX configuration, the second cell DTX configuration being a cell DTX configuration currently in an active state;

Deactivating the DTX configuration of the second cell according to the second signaling, and applying a second C-DRX configuration or deactivating a currently applied C-DRX configuration;

wherein,,

the second C-DRX configuration is protocol specified; or,

the second C-DRX configuration is a C-DRX configuration applied by the terminal device before activating the first cell DTX configuration; or,

the second C-DRX configuration is the C-DRX configuration currently applied by the terminal equipment; or,

the second C-DRX configuration is carried in the second signaling; or,

the identification of the second C-DRX configuration is carried in the second signaling.

22. The method of claim 21, wherein the second signaling carries an identification of the second C-DRX configuration, the method further comprising:

23. The method of claim 21 or 22, wherein the second C-DRX configuration is protocol specified; or, the second C-DRX configuration is a C-DRX configuration applied by the terminal device before activating the first cell DTX configuration; or the second C-DRX configuration is the C-DRX configuration currently applied by the terminal equipment; the applying the second C-DRX configuration includes:

Applying the second C-DRX configuration according to the indication information;

the indication information is carried in the second signaling;

the indication information indicates that the second C-DRX configuration is applied.

24. A method of communication, applied to a network device or a module in a network device, the method further comprising:

transmitting a second signaling to the terminal device, wherein the second signaling is used for indicating to deactivate the DTX configuration of the second cell; the second signaling also carries indication information or deactivates a second C-DRX configuration applied by the terminal device after the second cell DTX configuration or an identifier of the second C-DRX configuration;

the indication information is used for indicating the terminal equipment to execute any one of the following steps:

applying a protocol specified C-DRX configuration after deactivating the second cell DTX configuration; or,

continuing to apply the C-DRX configuration in the current activated state after deactivating the DTX configuration of the second cell; or,

applying a C-DRX configuration applied before activating the second cell DTX configuration after deactivating the cell DTX configuration; or,

the C-DRX configuration currently in an active state is deactivated after the cell DTX configuration is deactivated.

25. A communication device comprising a processor and a memory, the memory coupled to the processor, the processor configured to perform the method of any of claims 1-4, 9-11, 15-17, 21-23, or to perform the method of any of claims 5-8, 12-14, 18-20, 24.

26. A computer readable storage medium for storing a computer program which, when run on a computer, causes the computer to perform the method of any one of claims 1-4, 9-11, 15-17, 21-23 or causes the computer to perform the method of any one of claims 5-8, 12-14, 18-20, 24.

27. A chip system, the chip system comprising:

a processor and an interface from which the processor invokes and executes instructions that when executed by the processor implement the method of any one of claims 1-4, 9-11, 15-17, 21-23, or implement the method of any one of claims 5-8, 12-14, 18-20, 24.

28. A computer program product, characterized in that the computer program product comprises a computer program which, when run on a computer, causes the computer to perform the method of any one of claims 1-4, 9-11, 15-17, 21-23 or causes the computer to perform the method of any one of claims 5-8, 12-14, 18-20, 24.