Simplified ss burst design for network energy saving

Abstract

Embodiments of the present application relate to a compact SS burst design for network energy saving. A user equipment includes a memory storing computer executable instructions and at least one processor. The at least one processor is configured to execute the computer executable instructions to cause the user equipment to obtain a SSB configuration parameter, the SSB configuration parameter being associated with a SS burst comprising a plurality of SSBs, the SSB configuration parameter defining different configurations for at least a first SSB and a second SSB of the plurality of SSBs, receive the first SSB based on the SSB configuration parameter, the first SSB comprising at least a synchronization signal, receive the second SSB based on the SSB configuration parameter, the second SSB comprising a synchronization signal and a physical broadcast channel, and access a radio network based on at least one of the first SSB or the second SSB.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Various example implementations generally relate to the configuration of wireless communication systems and synchronization signal blocks (SSBs) for network energy saving. Background Technology

[0002] Typically, a synchronization signal block (SSB) spans four consecutive orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) signals. SSBs can be transmitted in bursts. Traditionally, each SSB in a burst has the same configuration and includes both a synchronization signal block and a physical broadcast channel. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The scope of protection sought with respect to the various exemplary embodiments is set forth in the independent claims. Exemplary embodiments and / or features (if any) described in this specification that are not within the scope of the independent claims are to be interpreted as examples useful for understanding the various embodiments.

[0004] As used herein, the term "SSB" is used to refer to a synchronization signal block. The term "SS burst" refers to a burst transmission of one or more SSBs. Multiple SS bursts are referred to as an SS burst set, where the number of SS bursts within an SS burst set is finite. In various example embodiments, each SSB in an SS burst is associated with a beam. In some example embodiments, the SSBs included in an SS burst may include subsets of SSBs with a specific configuration. These subsets may be referred to herein as SSB sets, and the SSBs included in an SS burst may be grouped into multiple SSB sets. The terms "SSB profile," "SSB configuration," and "SSB content" are sometimes used interchangeably to refer to the way a particular SSB is configured. Thus, two SSBs with the same configuration will have the same content and may be referred to as having the same profile.

[0005] In at least one example embodiment disclosed herein, an SS burst may include different SSBs with different contents. In some such example embodiments, for example, a first SSB included in an SS burst may include one or more synchronization signals but not a physical broadcast channel signal, while a second SSB included in the same SS burst may include one or more synchronization signals (e.g., two synchronization signals) and each of the physical broadcast channel signals. In one or more example embodiments, the period of broadcasting the physical broadcast channel signal within an SS burst may differ from or be different from the period of broadcasting one or more synchronization signals within the same SS burst. It can be said that SSBs including different contents have different profiles.

[0006] When the period of the PBCH and / or the period of one or more synchronization signals varies across different beams used to transmit SSBs in a single SS burst, the period can be referred to as the spatial period. In at least one example embodiment, when the period of the PBCH and / or the period of one or more synchronization signals varies over time within the same beam, the period can be referred to as the temporal period. A spatial period can be established by configuring SSBs included in a single SS burst, while a temporal period can be established by configuring SSBs included in different SS bursts within the same SS burst set.

[0007] According to at least one example embodiment, a user equipment includes: a memory storing computer-executable instructions; and at least one processor. The at least one processor is configured to execute the computer-executable instructions to cause the user equipment to: obtain SSB configuration parameters associated with an SS burst comprising a plurality of SSBs, the SSB configuration parameters defining different configurations for at least a first SSB and a second SSB among the plurality of SSBs; receive a first SSB based on the SSB configuration parameters, the first SSB including at least a synchronization signal; receive a second SSB based on the SSB configuration parameters, the second SSB including a synchronization signal and a physical broadcast channel; and access a radio network based on at least one of the first SSB or the second SSB.

[0008] At least one other example embodiment provides a user equipment comprising: components for obtaining SSB configuration parameters associated with an SS burst comprising a plurality of SSBs, the SSB configuration parameters defining different configurations for at least a first SSB and a second SSB among the plurality of SSBs; components for receiving a first SSB based on the SSB configuration parameters, the first SSB including at least a synchronization signal; components for receiving a second SSB based on the SSB configuration parameters, the second SSB including a synchronization signal and a physical broadcast channel; and components for accessing a radio network based on at least one of the first SSB or the second SSB.

[0009] At least one other example embodiment provides a method for use in a user equipment, the method comprising: obtaining SSB configuration parameters associated with an SS burst comprising a plurality of SSBs, the SSB configuration parameters defining different configurations for at least a first SSB and a second SSB among the plurality of SSBs; receiving a first SSB based on the SSB configuration parameters, the first SSB comprising at least a synchronization signal; receiving a second SSB based on the SSB configuration parameters, the second SSB comprising a synchronization signal and a physical broadcast channel; and accessing a radio network based on at least one of the first SSB and the second SSB.

[0010] At least one other example embodiment provides a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing computer-executable instructions that, when executed by at least one processor at a user equipment, cause the user equipment to perform a method comprising: obtaining SSB configuration parameters associated with an SS burst comprising a plurality of SSBs, the SSB configuration parameters defining different configurations for at least a first SSB and a second SSB among the plurality of SSBs; receiving a first SSB based on the SSB configuration parameters, the first SSB comprising at least a synchronization signal; receiving a second SSB based on the SSB configuration parameters, the second SSB comprising a synchronization signal and a physical broadcast channel; and accessing a radio network based on at least one of the first SSB and the second SSB.

[0011] At least one other example embodiment provides a radio access network element comprising: a memory storing computer-executable instructions; and at least one processor. The at least one processor is configured to execute the computer-executable instructions to cause the radio access network element to: provide SSB configuration parameters associated with an SS burst comprising a plurality of SSBs, the SSB configuration parameters indicating the period of at least one of a synchronization signal or a physical broadcast channel included in at least a first SSB of the plurality of SSBs; and transmit an SS burst comprising a first SSB, the first SSB including a synchronization signal, or one of a synchronization signal and a physical broadcast channel, according to the SSB configuration parameters.

[0012] At least one other example embodiment provides a radio access network element comprising: components for providing SSB configuration parameters associated with an SS burst comprising a plurality of SSBs, the SSB configuration parameters indicating the period of at least one of a synchronization signal or a physical broadcast channel included in at least a first SSB of the plurality of SSBs; and components for transmitting an SS burst comprising a first SSB according to the SSB configuration parameters, the first SSB comprising a synchronization signal, or one of a synchronization signal and a physical broadcast channel.

[0013] At least one other example embodiment provides a method comprising: providing SSB configuration parameters associated with an SS burst comprising a plurality of SSBs, the SSB configuration parameters indicating the period of at least one of a synchronization signal or a physical broadcast channel included in at least a first SSB of the plurality of SSBs; and transmitting an SS burst comprising a first SSB, the first SSB including a synchronization signal, or one of a synchronization signal and a physical broadcast channel, according to the SSB configuration parameters.

[0014] At least one other example embodiment provides a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing computer-executable instructions that, when executed by at least one processor at a radio network element, cause the radio network element to perform a method comprising: providing SSB configuration parameters associated with an SS burst comprising a plurality of SSBs, the SSB configuration parameters indicating the period of at least one of a synchronization signal or a physical broadcast channel included in at least a first SSB of the plurality of SSBs; and transmitting an SS burst comprising a first SSB, the first SSB including a synchronization signal, or one of a synchronization signal and a physical broadcast channel, according to the SSB configuration parameters.

[0015] At least one other example embodiment provides a computer program product that includes program elements to perform one or more methods described herein when executed by at least one processor at a radio network element or user equipment.

[0016] Other areas of application will become apparent from the description provided herein. The descriptions and specific examples in this invention are intended for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0017] The exemplary embodiments will be more fully understood from the detailed description and accompanying drawings given below, wherein like elements are designated by like reference numerals. The exemplary embodiments are given by way of illustration only and are therefore not intended to limit this disclosure.

[0018] Figure 1 Examples of communication networks according to various example embodiments are shown; Figure 2A and Figure 2B This is a block diagram showing the regular synchronization signal block (SSB) and the regular SS burst set; Figure 3A and Figure 3B This is a block diagram illustrating examples of different SSBs including different content / different profiles according to various example embodiments; Figure 4 This is a signal flow diagram illustrating communication between a network node and two UEs according to various example embodiments; Figure 5 This is a block diagram illustrating the grouping of SSBs with different profiles / configurations / contents into sets according to various example embodiments; Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating a method according to various example embodiments; and Figure 7 This is a block diagram of an apparatus according to various example embodiments.

[0019] It should be noted that these figures are intended to illustrate the general characteristics of the methods, structures, and / or materials used in some exemplary embodiments and to supplement the written description provided below. However, these figures are not drawn to scale and may not accurately reflect the precise structural or performance characteristics of any given embodiment, and should not be construed as defining or limiting the range or characteristics of the values ​​covered by the exemplary embodiments. The use of similar or identical reference numerals in the various figures is intended to indicate the presence of similar or identical elements or features. Detailed Implementation

[0020] Example embodiments will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0021] At least some of the described example embodiments can be implemented in a communication network, including but not limited to one or more of the following types of radio access technologies (RATs): Global Microwave Access Interoperability (WiMAX), Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM, 2G), GSM EDGE Radio Access Network (GERAN), General Packet Radio Service (GRPS), Universal Mobile Telecommunications System based on Basic Wideband Code Division Multiple Access (W-CDMA) (UMTS, 3G), High-Speed ​​Packet Access (HSPA), Long Term Evolution (LTE), Advanced LTE and Enhanced LTE (eLTE), 5G (also known as 5G New Radio (5G NR)), or any future RAT (such as 6G). Furthermore, communication within the communication network can utilize one or more wireless communication technologies, including but not limited to: Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA), Frequency Division Multiple Access (FDMA), Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA), Frequency Division Duplex (FDD), Time Division Duplex (TDD), Multiple-Input Multiple-Output (MIMO), Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM), and / or Discrete Fourier Transform Extended OFDM (DFT-s-OFDM).

[0022] As used herein, the term "network device" or "network node" refers to a node in a communication network through which user equipment can access the network and / or control radio communications and manage radio resources within a cell. A network node or network device may be referred to as a Radio Access Network (RAN) element, base station (BS), access point (AP), or access node. Depending on the technology applied, a network device may be, for example, a Node B (NodeB or NB), an evolved Node B (eNodeB or eNB), an NR NB (also known as a gNB), a Remote Radio Unit (RRU), a Radio Head (RH), a Remote Radio Head (RRH), a repeater, an Integrated Access and Backhaul (IAB) node, a low-power node, a non-terrestrial network (NTN) or non-terrestrial network equipment (such as satellite network equipment, low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites, or geostationary Earth orbit (GEO) satellites), or an aircraft network device.

[0023] Furthermore, in conjunction with a split radio access network (RAN), network equipment can refer to a centralized unit (CU) and / or a distributed unit (DU) of a base station. The interface between the CU and the DU may be referred to as the F1 interface in NR. In a split RAN architecture, node operations can be performed at least partially in a central / centralized unit (CU, e.g., a server, host, or node) that is operatively coupled to a DU (e.g., a radio head / node). A CU can control one or more DUs, at least acting as a transmit / receive (Tx / Rx) node. In some embodiments, a DU may include, for example, a Radio Link Control (RLC), a Media Access Control (MAC) layer, and a Physical (PHY) layer, while a CU may include layers above the RLC layer, such as a Packet Data Convergence Protocol (PDCP) layer, Radio Resource Control (RRC), and Internet Protocol (IP) layer. Other functional splitting is also possible. In practice, any processing task can be performed in a CU or a DU, and the boundaries of responsibility transfer between the CU and the DU can depend on the implementation applied.

[0024] The term "terminal device" refers to any terminal device capable of wireless communication. For example, a terminal device may also be referred to as a communication device, user equipment (UE), subscriber station (SS), or mobile station (MS). Terminal devices can include mobile phones, cellular phones, smartphones, VoIP phones, wireless local loop phones, tablets, wearable terminal devices, personal digital assistants (PDAs), portable computers, desktop computers, image capture terminal phones (such as digital cameras, gaming consoles, music storage and recycle bins), in-vehicle wireless terminal devices, USB dongles, Internet of Things (IoT) devices, watches or other wearable devices, headsets (HMDs), vehicles, drones, medical devices and applications (e.g., remote surgery), industrial devices and applications (e.g., robots and / or other wireless devices operating in industrial and / or automated processing chain environments), consumer electronics devices, devices operating on commercial and / or industrial wireless networks, and so on.

[0025] As used herein, the term "resource" can refer to radio resources in the time domain, frequency domain, spatial domain, and / or code domain. Some examples of resources include, for example, physical resource blocks (PRBs), radio frames, subframes, time slots, subbands, frequency regions, subcarriers, beams, etc. The terms "transmit" and / or "receive" can refer to wirelessly transmitting and / or receiving on radio resources via a radio propagation channel.

[0026] First refer to Figure 1Examples of communication network 100 will be discussed based on various exemplary embodiments. Communication network 100 (e.g., cellular or other communication networks) may include network nodes (or RAN elements) 110 providing services to one or more cells (e.g., cell 101), and network nodes (or RAN elements) 112 providing services to one or more other cells (e.g., cell 102). Each cell may include, but is not limited to, macrocells, microcells, femtocells, or picocells. A cell may define a coverage area or service area for a corresponding access node (e.g., network node 110 and / or network node 112).

[0027] A network node (such as network node 110) may provide radio access to the communication network 100 to one or more instances of user equipment (UE) (such as user equipment (UE) 120 or UE 122). Radio access may include downlink (DL) communication from network node 110 to UE 120 and uplink (UL) communication from UE 120 to network node 110. Examples of uplink channels include a Physical Uplink Control Channel (PUCCH) for transmitting control information and a Physical Uplink Shared Channel (PUSCH) for transmitting data to the network. Examples of downlink channels include a Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH) for transmitting control information and a Physical Downlink Shared Channel (PDSCH) for transmitting data to the UE.

[0028] Multiple UEs, such as UE 120 and UE 122, may exist in the communication network 100. Each UE may be served by the same or different network nodes (e.g., network node 110 and network node 112). One or more UEs may be configured with dual connectivity (DC), where a UE may connect to multiple network nodes. In some example embodiments, multiple UEs (e.g., UE 120 and UE 122) may communicate directly with each other using a device-to-device (D2D) communication interface by establishing a direct link (sometimes referred to as a side link (SL)) between the two devices. For example, such D2D communication may be referred to as machine-to-machine communication, peer-to-peer (P2P) communication, or vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communication.

[0029] In example embodiments of a communication network that include multiple network nodes, the network nodes can connect to each other via interfaces. The LTE specification refers to this type of interface as the X2 interface. The interface between an LTE node and a 5G node, or between two 5G nodes, can be referred to as the Xn interface.

[0030] Network nodes 110 and 112 can also connect to the core network 116 of the communication network 100 via another interface. The LTE specification designates core network 116 as the Evolved Packet Core (EPC), and core network 116 may include, for example, a Mobility Management Entity (MME) and gateway nodes. The MME can handle the mobility of terminal devices in a tracking area containing multiple cells and handle signaling connections between terminal devices and the core network. Gateway nodes can handle data routing within the core network and to / from terminal devices. The 5G specification refers to core network 116 as the 5G Core (5GC). The 5G Core may include, for example, Access and Mobility Management Functions (AMF), User Plane Functions / Gateway (UPF), and / or other functions. The AMF can handle Non-Access Stratum (NAS) signaling, NAS encryption and integrity protection, registration management, connection management, mobility management, access authentication and authorization, and / or security context management termination. UPF nodes can support packet routing and forwarding, packet inspection, and Quality of Service (QoS) processing.

[0031] Next reference Figure 2A and Figure 2B The regular synchronization signal block (SSB) 200 and regular SS burst 250 will be discussed. During cell search operations, the UE uses new radio (NR) synchronization signals (such as primary synchronization signal (PSS) block 210 and secondary synchronization signal (SSS) block 212) in combination with the physical broadcast channel (PBCH) block 214 included in the SSB to derive the necessary information to obtain time and frequency synchronization with the cell, and detect the physical layer cell identifier (PCI) of the network cell, and thus access the cell.

[0032] SSBs can be transmitted in fixed time slot locations (such as symbols 0 to 3), such as... Figure 2A and Figure 2B As shown. PSS block 210 and SSS block 212 provide cell identification, time and frequency synchronization, and are used by the UE for cell search and acquisition. PBCH block 214 carries the system information required for the UE to camp on the cell, such as downlink system bandwidth, timing information within the radio frame, SS burst period, system frame number, etc. Note that SSB 200 can be organized to support beam sweep. Figure 2A and Figure 2B As shown, different beams are used to transmit each SSB 200 within the SS burst 250. 3GPP TS 38.211 defines how bits are mapped to physical resources.

[0033] SSB 200 is the first signal / message decoded by the UE for cell search and synchronization, and is used to deduce the information required for cell access. In the traditional architecture, each SSB always spans four consecutive OFDM symbols and includes a PSS block, an SSS block, and a PBCH block transmitted periodically with a default period of 20 milliseconds. Specifically, the UE obtains time and frequency synchronization with the network for the downlink direction and calculates the PCI of the serving cell using the PSS and SSS within the SSB. Additionally, the gNB uses the PBCH to broadcast the Master Information Block (MIB) and other system information (SI).

[0034] Note that, conventionally, an SS burst can contain multiple SSBs. Each SSB in a given SS burst typically includes the same / identical data and is transmitted in a specific beam direction. Specifically, an SS burst may contain up to 8 SSBs and 64 SSBs (in frequency range 1 (FR1) and FR2, respectively), and therefore the SSB overhead can be significant. FR1 is referred to as the low-frequency band and includes frequencies from 410 MHz to 7.125 GHz, and is the main 5G band. FR2 is referred to as the high-frequency band. FR2 includes frequencies from 24.25 GHz to 52.6 GHz and focuses on short-range, high-data-rate capabilities.

[0035] As a possible example of a typical operating scenario, assume the following parameters: FR2, where the subcarrier spacing (SCS) = 120 kHz, and the number of SSB beams = 64, then...

[0036]

[0037] Should" Always on "and" same "SSBs are periodically broadcast to be received across the entire cell area, and each SSB includes the same / identical signal and channel, namely PSS, SSS, and PBCH, which is disadvantageous in terms of network energy consumption."

[0038] Next reference Figure 3A and Figure 3BDifferent SSBs with varying content / profiles will be discussed based on various example embodiments. In the various example embodiments disclosed herein, once a UE is served by a cell in RRC-connected mode, the UE may not necessarily need a PBCH, but an RRC-connected UE may still need to receive an SSB including one or more synchronization signals (such as PSS and / or SSS) to perform Radio Access Technology (RAT) measurements, such as intra-RAT measurements. Therefore, in some example embodiments, the PBCH may be omitted or transmitted over a relatively long period (lower period) compared to the PSS / SSS. Thus, the configuration of different SSB profiles with implicit network indications and different periods of the PSS and / or SSS and / or PBCH can be beneficial for achieving higher network energy efficiency in 6G or other systems.

[0039] Therefore, to improve network energy efficiency, at least some example embodiments configure SS bursts and / or SS burst set content (PSS, SSS, PBCH) to be non-uniform in either or both of time and space. In some example embodiments, this may include using multiple SSB profiles with different configurations (e.g., different periods) for each component (e.g., PSS, SSS, PBCH) within a given SS burst and / or SS burst set, rather than "always on" and "the same content". Configuring SSBs within SS bursts and / or SS burst sets to carry different content provides flexibility and also achieves energy savings in example embodiments where some SSBs have less content than others.

[0040] In some such example embodiments, a cell can operate by switching between different SSB transmission profiles, each profile characterized by different periods of the PSS and / or SSS and / or PBCH. Additionally, the periods and / or information can vary spatially across different SSB beams (per SSB beam basis) or SSB beam sets (per SSB set basis) within a given SS burst. Furthermore, the periods and / or information can vary temporally across different SS bursts within an SS burst set. This flexibility allows the system to free up unnecessary resources by decoupling Radio Resource Control (RRC) idle and connected mode UEs, and to achieve network power saving within the system.

[0041] In some example embodiments, SSB profile periodicity information is embedded in the PBCH DMRS, for example, by introducing frequency domain position shifting and / or sequence rotation, providing at least a portion of the SSB profile configuration and active profile indication to the UE. This enables the UE to identify and track active SSB profiles and determine the corresponding period or other characteristics associated with the SSB. Additionally, embedding SSB profile periodicity information into the PBCH DMRS by introducing frequency domain position shifting and / or sequence rotation can also allow the UE to save power, as the UD does not need to monitor all SSB opportunities.

[0042] In at least one example embodiment, by using a single SS burst comprising multiple SSBs with different profiles (e.g., a simplified SSB with only a synchronization signal PSS / SSS and another simplified SSB with a full SSB including PSS / SSS and PBCH), the network can transmit System Information Block 1 (SIB1) over a subset of beams with a longer duration (longer period) between transmission periods, thereby reducing energy consumption and improving SSB resource utilization by decoupling idle mode UEs and connected mode UEs from varying load and coverage requirements. In other example embodiments, SS bursts within an SS burst set comprise SSBs with different profiles configured to generate time-domain periods. For example, SSBs transmitted using the same beam in each of a series of SS bursts within an SS burst set can be configured to generate, for example, a period of PBCH over time.

[0043] Figure 3A and Figure 3B The various diagrams included illustrate SSBs with different profiles / contents / configurations. The example embodiments are not limited to the profiles / contents / configurations shown, but rather the profiles / contents shown are merely examples of some different configurations of SSBs that can be used in combination with various implementations. Figure 3A and Figure 3B The diagram shown includes a first SSB configuration 310, which includes PSS block 210, SSS block 212, and PBCH block 214. Note that this first SSB configuration 310 is the same as the configuration used by SSB 200 (FIG.2). It should be remembered that the configuration used by SSB 200 in FIG. 2 is used for every SSB in the SS burst. In contrast, various example embodiments may use the first SSB configuration 310 for fewer SSBs included in an SS burst, while using other SSB configurations for other SSBs included in the same SS burst.

[0044] In other exemplary embodiments, the SSB configuration may include: a second SSB configuration 320 that includes PSS block 210 and SSS block 212 but excludes PBCH block (e.g., only PSS and SSS in PSS, SSS, and PBCH); a third SSB configuration 330 that includes SSS block 212 but excludes either PSS or PBCH block; a fourth SSB configuration 340 that includes PSS block 210 but excludes either SSS or PBCH block; and a fifth SSB configuration 35. The fifth SSB configuration 350 includes a variant configuration of PSS block 210, SSS block 212, and PBCH block 214; the sixth SSB configuration 360 includes SSS block 212 and PBCH block 214 but excludes the PSS block; the seventh SSB configuration 370 includes PSS block 210 and PBCH block 214 but excludes the SSS block; and the eighth SSB configuration 380 includes a second variant configuration of PSS block 210, SSS block 212, and PBCH block 214. It should be understood that these and other SSB configurations can be used in various combinations and subsets to implement various example embodiments. The different SSB configurations do not depend on each other, and therefore, any combination or subset of the listed SSB configurations and other configurations can be implemented to meet desired results in terms of energy saving and UE access latency. Furthermore, as mentioned above, each beam in the cell can be configured with one of the SSB configurations, thereby enabling at least some beams in the cell to have different SSB configurations.

[0045] In at least one example embodiment, different SSB configurations / profiles can be used to implement different spatial and / or temporal periods for synchronization signals (e.g., signals included in PSS block 210 and SSS block 212), and different spatial and / or temporal periods for PBCH signals included in PBCH block 214. In one example embodiment, the spatial periods of PSS block 210, SSS block 212, and PBCH block 214 can differ from each other during the transmission of an SS burst, and / or the temporal periods of PSS block 210, SSS block 212, and PBCH block 214 can differ across SS bursts within an SS burst set. Therefore, different SSB configurations can be used to implement different spatial periods within a single SS burst, as well as different temporal periods across SS burst sets.

[0046] Taking PBCH block 214 as an example, a network element configured to send a first SS burst can be configured to send an SS burst including SSBs with different configurations selected to have 25% PBCH period, and to send a second SS burst including SSBs selected to have 50% PBCH period. The first SS burst set can also be configured to have 90% PSS / SSS period, while the second SS burst set can have 100% PSS / SSS period. The percentages are defined relative to the maximum period, meaning that all SSBs contain PBCH.

[0047] In another example embodiment, if 64 SSBs are included in an SS burst, and 32 SSBs have a configuration that includes a PBCH block, while the remaining 32 SSBs have a configuration that does not include a PBCH block, then the period of the PBCH block can be referred to as 50%. In some example embodiments, the period can also be expressed as an absolute frequency or a time value.

[0048] Note that in various example embodiments, the UE can be in one of three distinct states: idle; connected; or inactive. The idle state is a low-activity state designed to conserve battery life and manage UE mobility when there is no active communication. In the idle state, the UE does not actively participate in data transmission but can still receive system information and paging messages. The connected state is an active state in which the UE can directly communicate with the network for data transmission and signaling. The connected state supports application data exchange and network control tasks such as handover. The inactive state is an intermediate state that attempts to balance battery efficiency and rapid resumption of activity. In the inactive state, the UE can suspend its connection while maintaining registration with the network, thus allowing for rapid reactivation.

[0049] In at least one example embodiment, based on the different needs of idle-mode UEs and connected-mode UEs, the network node identifies different SSB profiles to be used in SS bursts and / or burst sets. Different SSB profiles may include different time-domain periods and / or spatial-domain periods of the PSS and / or SSS and / or PBCH, which can improve network energy efficiency while helping to meet the different needs of idle-mode UEs and connected-mode UEs.

[0050] In the example embodiment, the SS burst and / or SS burst set may include, but is not limited to, SSBs with different SSB profiles selected based on different UE requirements (e.g., in idle mode and connected mode), as shown in Table 1 below.

[0051]

[0052] Table 1 For example, if a static or semi-static UE is already in RRC-connected mode and requires precise time / frequency synchronization (e.g., XR / VR applications), the network can activate the SSB profile according to option 1. In at least one example embodiment, option 1 may not be feasible for idle-mode UEs due to the omission of the PBCH. However, if a mobile RRC-connected UE needs to perform beam management and intra-frame RAT measurements, the network can activate the SSB profile according to option 1. Alternatively, the network can activate the SSB profile according to option 2 to also support idle-mode UEs in coverage.

[0053] In at least one example embodiment, the network may use a default SSB profile, which may include PSS, SSS, and PBCH, for cell search procedures based on idle and / or inactive UEs according to Option 3.

[0054] As illustrated in the examples above, UEs in RRC-connected mode may not require a PBCH, as they may only need an SSB for intra-frame RAT measurements. Therefore, PBCH transmissions can be reduced or less frequent compared to synchronization signals such as PSS / SSS. In at least one example embodiment, idle-mode UEs and connected-mode UEs can be decoupled; for example, PBCH transmissions such as MIB and SIB1 can be decoupled from SSB transmissions, enabling a more flexible configuration with different periods of PSS / SSS / PBCH to enhance energy efficiency in 6G and / or other networks.

[0055] Next reference Figure 4 Example communication between a network node 420 in RRC connected mode, a first UE 410, and a second UE 412 in idle / inactive mode will be discussed based on various example embodiments. In an example embodiment, in conjunction with a first SS burst 460, the network node 420 may send SSB configuration parameters 430 to the first UE 410, for example, in an RRC reconfiguration message, an SIB1 message, etc. The network node 420 sends a first SS burst 440 including PBCH DMRS to both the first UE 410 and the second UE 412. The second UE 412 receives the first PBCH DMRS signal 435, thereby allowing the UE 412 to implicitly determine the SSB configuration parameters.

[0056] The first SSB configuration parameter 430 may include, but is not limited to, the following: information indicating the content of an individual SSB, the broadcast frequency associated with a specific SSB, the period of one or more synchronization signals (e.g., PSS / SSS) and the period of the physical channel (PBCH) within the first SS burst 460, which SSBs will include PSS / SSS / PBCH signals, and / or similar information. The first PBCHDMRS signal 435 may include information that allows the UE 412 to implicitly obtain the SSB configuration parameters. The implicit determination of the SSB configuration parameters will be discussed later.

[0057] After the first UE 410 and the second UE 412 have obtained the SSB configuration parameters, the first UE 410 obtains one or more SSBs included in the first SS burst 440 and uses the obtained SSBs to perform a first access to the radio network 450. Similarly, the second UE 412 obtains one or more SSBs included in the first SS burst 440, for example, by decoding the obtained SSBs according to the implicitly obtained SSB configuration parameters, and uses the obtained SSBs to perform a second access to the radio network 455. The access of the UE to the radio network can be accomplished using any known method. Therefore, detailed discussion is omitted.

[0058] Continuing the example above, in conjunction with the second SS burst 470, network node 420 can send updated SSB configuration parameters 432 to first UE 410, for example, in an RRC reconfiguration message, SIB1 message, etc. Network node 420 sends a second SS burst 442, including PBCH DMRS, to both first UE 410 and second UE 412. Second UE 412 receives the second PBCH DMRS signal 437, thereby allowing UE 412 to implicitly determine the SSB configuration parameters. The updated SSB configuration parameters 432 may include, but are not limited to, updated information indicating the content of an individual SSB, the broadcast frequency associated with a specific SSB, the period of one or more synchronization signals (e.g., PSS / SSS) and the period of the physical channel (PBCH) within the second SS burst 470, which SSBs will include PSS / SSS / PBCH signals, and / or similar updated information. The second PBCH DMRS signal 437 may include information that allows second UE 412 to implicitly obtain the updated configuration parameters.

[0059] After the first UE 410 and the second UE 412 have obtained the updated SSB configuration parameters, the first UE 410 obtains one or more SSBs included in the second SS burst 442 and uses the obtained SSBs to perform third access to the radio network 457. Similarly, the second UE 412 obtains one or more SSBs included in the second SS burst 442, for example, by decoding the SSBs according to the implicitly obtained SSB configuration parameters, and uses the obtained SSBs to perform fourth access to the radio network 459.

[0060] In at least one example embodiment, network node 420 configures an updated SSB profile. In some such example embodiments, the network may use SIB 1 to indicate the updated SSB profile, for example, to be applied by an RRC-idle UE. In other example embodiments, the network may use an RRC reconfiguration message to indicate the updated SSB profile to an RRC-connected UE.

[0061] In at least some example embodiments, there are two or more possible SSB configurations: one for all UEs and another for UEs with specific RRC connections. UEs can be instructed to track and / or omit certain time instances. For UEs with RRC connections, this instruction can be explicitly provided via RRC messages. Conversely, for RRC-idle UEs, this instruction can be implicitly provided within PBCH DMRS and / or sequence rotation.

[0062] In various example embodiments, the UE uses an updated SSB configuration indicated by the network to optimize its operation. In RRC-connected mode, the UE uses the network-configured SSB Measurement Timing Configuration (SMTC) for mobility-related tasks such as beam management or handover. For example, the UE may determine the timing of its operation based on the serving SSB beam, SSB beam content, and period (e.g., time / frequency synchronization, intra-frame RAT measurement, access network, etc.).

[0063] In one example embodiment, if the UE drifts and loses synchronization due to mobility or interference, the UE can resynchronize itself by decoding the SSB beam (PSS / SSS) periodically transmitted by the BS. In another example embodiment, during mobility procedures (e.g., cell / beam reselection or handover), the UE monitors the SSB beam to measure signal strength (Received Signal Received Power (RSRP)) and quality (Received Signal Received Quality (RSRQ)), thereby helping the UE determine whether to maintain connection to the current serving cell or switch to a better beam / cell.

[0064] In the example of implicit determination including SSB parameters, we assume option 2 from Table 1 is used. We further assume that the SS burst comprises two sets of SSBs (e.g., PSS+SSS with a default period of 20 ms in set 1), while PBCH symbols are transmitted less frequently with configurable periods of, for example, [20, 40, 80, 160, 320, etc.] milliseconds in set 2. Note that PBCH includes DMRS, which serves as a (known) reference signal for decoding PBCH.

[0065] In a specific example embodiment, the set of two-period information can be embedded in the physical location resource element of the PBCH DMRS. In one such example embodiment, based on the physical cell ID plus... Position shifting in the frequency domain can be used to consider set-2 periodic information, for example,

[0066] in For periods of [20, 40, 80, 160] milliseconds respectively.

[0067] Regarding UE operations with implicit indications, in at least one example embodiment, the PBCH DMRS vertically shifts its position in the frequency domain, where the physical cell ID (e.g., The range of the starting location is from 0 to 3. The UE can obtain the Physical Cell ID (PCI) from the PSS / SSS and determine it by comparing the current location DMRS symbol with the expected known location DMRS from the PCI. This information is then used to decode the period. Note that while the DMRS sequences in PBCH are short and have a density of 1 / 4 relative to the data, they introduce an acceptable level of complexity.

[0068] In at least one example embodiment, an alternative solution (e.g., suitable for use with legacy 5G NR) may include rotating the DMRS sequence instead of shifting the DMRS position in the frequency domain. For example, sending the sequence as This will indicate a period of 20 ms, while rotating the sequence to... This indicates a period of 40 ms, with further rotations for other periods. This technique preserves the existing shift configuration of 5G NR while still allowing the UE to determine the period based on DMRS sequence rotation. In some example embodiments, rotating the DMRS sequence does not require additional bits to be included in the PBCH payload, and utilizes the shifts from grid and sequence rotation to efficiently encode additional information.

[0069] Next reference Figure 5 The grouping of SSBs with different profiles / configurations / contents into a set will be discussed based on various example embodiments. Figure 5 A first SS burst 505 and a second SS burst 525 are shown. The first SS burst 505 includes an SSB1 set 510 with a first SSB profile / cycle / content and an SSB2 set 520 with a second SSB profile / cycle / content. (Previously referenced...) Figure 3A and Figure 3B Examples of potential SSB profiles / cycles / contents are discussed. In at least one example embodiment, the SSBs included in SSB1 set 510 share a common profile / cycle / content. The SSBs included in SSB2 set 520 have a common profile / cycle / content that is different from the common profile / cycle / content of the SSBs included in SSB1 set 510.

[0070] The second SS burst 525 includes an SSB3 set 530 and an SSB4 set 540. Similar to the first SS burst 505, the SSBs included in the SSB3 set 530 may share a common profile / period / content, and the SSBs included in the SSB4 set 540 may also share a common profile / period / content, but the profiles / periods / content of the SSBs included in the SSB3 set 530 and the SSBs included in the SSB4 set 540 may differ from each other. In some example embodiments (not explicitly shown), more than two SSB sets may be included in a particular SS burst.

[0071] In at least one example embodiment, each SSB set can be transmitted via a certain number of SSB beams. As an example, SSB set 1 510 can be transmitted via consecutive SSB beams with indices 1 to 4, and SSB set 2 can be transmitted via consecutive SSB beams with indices 5 to 8. In at least one example embodiment, SSB parameters can be defined on a per-SSB-set basis to include the content of each SSB within the set (for each SSB index), and two period values, one related to the PSS / SSS and one related to the PBCH in the SSB set.

[0072] In at least one example embodiment, the SS burst set may follow a defined period, and individual SSBs within the SS burst set are not forced to be transmitted during every SS burst period within the SS burst set. For example, based on network configuration, some SSBs may be muted or omitted during certain periods, particularly in scenarios requiring energy efficiency or interference control. In one example embodiment, defining which SSBs will be transmitted in a particular SS burst can be done using the SsbPositionsInBurst parameter, which provides a bit mask. A bit set to 0 means that the corresponding SSB is not transmitted. In some example embodiments, additional parameters such as nOneGroup and / or groupPresence allow for selective activation or deactivation of specific SSB groups.

[0073] The UE can observe beams from two SSB sets. For example, SSB set 1 510 can be configured with shorter periods for synchronization (PSS+SSS) and L1 measurements, while SSB set 2 520 can be associated with longer periods (less frequent) and can include the PBCH. In at least one example embodiment, decoupling PBCH (e.g., MIB) transmissions from regular SSB transmissions allows the network to focus SIB1 transmissions on a subset of beams with longer time-domain periods, thereby reducing energy consumption in networks such as 6G networks.

[0074] As a simple example, the SSB beam associated with SSB set 1 can be configured to include: PSS+SSS and activated with period 1, while PBCH is transmitted less frequently with period 2, where period 1 Cycle 2. This configuration is beneficial in scenarios where time / frequency synchronization signals need to be updated more frequently than broadcast information (e.g., XR applications). Network nodes can reduce the number of beams transmitting the PBCH (e.g., transmitting only on a subset of beams such as indices 4 to 7). This not only helps the UE obtain MIB and SIB1 from these beams, but also contributes to network energy efficiency by making synchronization and system information available to the UE while reducing and / or minimizing unnecessary transmissions.

[0075] In a specific example embodiment, assume the following parameters: SCS = 120 kHz and the number of SSB beams = 64, SSB set 1 = 48 and SSB set 2 = 16, then...

[0076]

[0077] As shown in this example, the overhead can also be reduced compared to the conventional approach where each SSB within an SS burst includes the same content, as referenced above. Figure 2Aand Figure 2B The subject of discussion.

[0078] Next reference Figure 6 A method will be discussed based on various example embodiments. As shown in box 610, the UE obtains SSB configuration parameters that define different configurations for two or more SSBs included in the same SS burst. In addition to defining the SSB configurations for each SSB, the SS burst configuration may also define a period associated with specific content included in the SSB, which can indicate which SSBs include specific content. For example, period information for PBCH blocks can indicate that every fourth SSB included in the SS burst will include a PBCH block. In some example embodiments, the SSB configuration parameters may also include SSB set configuration information, which indicates how SSBs constructed according to different profiles are grouped within the SS burst.

[0079] As shown in box 620, the UE receives a first SSB that includes at least a synchronization signal based on first SSB configuration parameters associated with the first SSB. The first SSB may include a PSS, an SSS, and / or another type of synchronization signal. In at least one example embodiment, the first SSB does not include the PBCH block and PBCH signal, which are typically transmitted during a PBCH block. The UE can use the SSB configuration parameters to determine that the first SSB includes information required for the UE to access the network. For example, if the UE is an RRC-connected UE, the UE can determine, based on the SSB configuration parameters, that the first SSB includes the synchronization signal required for the UE to access network resources. In some example embodiments, the UE may decode the first SSB in response to determining that the first SSB includes information required for the UE to access the network. In some example embodiments, if the SSB configuration parameters indicate that the first SSB does not include information required for the UE to access the network, the UE may not decode the first SSB.

[0080] As shown in box 630, the UE receives a second SSB, which includes synchronization signals and a physical broadcast channel, based on second SSB configuration parameters associated with the second SSB. The second SSB may include one or more synchronization signals, such as PSS and / or SSS, and a PBCH block including PBCH signals typically included in a PBCH block. The UE can use the SSB configuration parameters to determine if the second SSB includes information required for UE network access. For example, if the UE is in idle mode, the UE can determine, based on the SSB configuration parameters, that the second SSB includes PBCH signals required for UE network access. In some example embodiments, the UE may decode the second SSB in response to determining that it includes information required for UE network access. In some example embodiments, if the SSB configuration parameters indicate that the first SSB does not include information required for UE network access, but indicate that the second SSB does include such information, the UE may decode the second SSB but not the first SSB.

[0081] As shown in box 640, the UE accesses the radio network based on at least one of a first SSB or a second SSB. The SSB used by the UE to access the radio network may depend on, for example, whether the UE is in connected mode or idle mode.

[0082] Next reference Figure 7 A block diagram of the apparatus 700 will be discussed with reference to various example embodiments. The apparatus 700 includes, for example, at least one processor 712 and at least one memory 714 storing instructions 715, which, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus 700 to perform at least one or more methods as disclosed herein and any example embodiments thereof. In the examples, at least one memory and instructions (e.g., computer program code, software) are configured, together with the at least one processor, to cause the apparatus 700 to perform one or more methods as disclosed herein and any embodiments thereof.

[0083] Processor 712 may include, or be configured as, one or more circuit systems configured to perform stages of the methods according to the exemplary embodiments described herein. As used herein, the term “circuit system” may refer to one or more or all of the following: (a) a hardware circuit implementation only, such as an implementation in analog and / or digital circuit systems; and (b) a combination of hardware circuitry and software, such as, where applicable: (i) a combination of analog and / or digital hardware circuitry with software / firmware; and (ii) any portion of a hardware processor having software (including digital signal processors, software, and memory that work together to enable a device (such as a user equipment) to perform various functions); and (c) hardware circuitry and / or processors that require software (e.g., firmware) to operate, such as a microprocessor or a portion thereof, but the software may be absent when operation is not required. This definition of circuit system applies to all uses of the term in this application, including in any claim. As another example, as used herein, the term circuit system also encompasses implementations of hardware circuitry or processors (or processors) only, or portions thereof, and their accompanying software and / or firmware. For example, and if applicable to certain claim elements, the term "circuit system" also covers baseband integrated circuits or processor integrated circuits used in mobile devices or servers, cellular network devices or other computing or networking devices.

[0084] The memory 714 can be implemented using any suitable data storage technology. The memory may include a database for storing data. The memory 714 may be at least partially external to the device 700, but may be accessible by the device 700.

[0085] Instruction 715 may be included in a computer-readable medium or a non-transitory computer-readable medium. As used herein, the term non-transitory is a limitation of the medium itself (i.e., tangible, not tactile), rather than a limitation of the persistence of data storage (e.g., random access memory RAM versus read-only memory ROM).

[0086] In at least one example embodiment, device 700 may be a terminal device, such as Figure 1 The UE. In another example embodiment, the device is included in such a terminal device, for example, as a chipset configured to control the terminal device. Device 700 can be made or configured to at least perform Figure 6 The method and / or any one or more embodiments described in the examples.

[0087] In another example embodiment, device 700 is a network node, for example... Figure 1A network node. In another embodiment, the device is included in such a network node, for example, as a chipset configured to control a network node. Device 700 can be made or configured to at least perform... Figure 6 The method and / or any one or more embodiments described in the examples.

[0088] The apparatus may include one or more entities of any protocol layer, such as a MAC entity, RRC entity, RLC entity, PDCP entity, or PHY entity. In some embodiments, the entities are configured to perform at least one or more methods according to the described example embodiments.

[0089] Device 700 includes a radio interface 716. The radio interface 716 can provide communication capabilities to device 700. The radio interface 716 may include a receiver configured to receive information according to at least one cellular or non-cellular standard. The radio interface 716 may include a transmitter configured to transmit information according to at least one cellular or non-cellular standard. The receiver may include more than one receiver. The transmitter may include more than one transmitter. The radio interface 716 may include a transceiver configured to receive and transmit information according to at least one cellular or non-cellular standard. The transceiver may include more than one transceiver.

[0090] Device 700 may include a user interface 718, which includes at least one of, for example, a keypad, a microphone, a touch display, a monitor, a speaker, etc. User interface 718 can be used to control the device by a user. User interface 718 may be external to device 700. For example, device 700 may be connected to another device, such as a computer, via a wireless or wired connection, and device 700 may be controlled by a user via the computer.

[0091] In embodiments, at least some of the processes described herein may be performed by means including components for performing at least some of the processes. Components for performing the method steps disclosed herein may include software and / or hardware components of means 700. For example, at least one processor 712, memory 714, and computer program code form components for performing one or more methods disclosed herein and any embodiments thereof. As used herein, the term “component” should be interpreted in the singular (i.e., referring to a single element) or in the plural (i.e., referring to a combination of single elements). Thus, the term “component for [performing A, B, C]” should be interpreted to encompass means in which only one component for performing A, B, and C is present, or in which separate components for performing A, B, and C are present, or in which some or all components for performing A, B, and C overlap. Furthermore, the terms "component for performing A, component for performing B, component for performing C" should be interpreted as encompassing means in which only one component exists for performing A, B, and C, or where separate components exist for performing A, B, and C, or where some or all components of A, B, and C overlap.

[0092] As discussed herein, the terms "one or more" and "at least one" are used interchangeably. Although the specification may refer to "a," "an," or "some" embodiments in several places in the text, this does not necessarily mean that every reference is made to the same embodiment, or that a particular feature applies only to a single embodiment. Individual features of different embodiments may also be combined to provide other embodiments. Furthermore, when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with an embodiment, whether explicitly described or not, the application of such a feature, structure, or characteristic in connection with other embodiments is within the knowledge of those skilled in the art.

[0093] For the purposes of this disclosure, the phrases “at least one of A or B,” “at least one of A and B,” and “A and / or B” mean (A), (B), or (A and B). For the purposes of this disclosure, the phrases “A, B, and / or C” mean (A), (B), (C), (A and B), (A and C), (B and C), or (A, B, and C).

[0094] Although the terms first, second, etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one element from another. For example, without departing from the scope of this disclosure, a first element may be referred to as a second element, and similarly, a second element may be referred to as a first element. As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. Similarly, the term “or” includes both its connecting and separating meanings.

[0095] When an element is described as "connected" or "coupled" to another element, it can be directly connected or coupled to the other element, or there may be intermediate elements. Conversely, when an element is described as "directly connected" or "directly coupled" to another element, there are no intermediate elements. Other terms used to describe the physical relationship between elements should be interpreted in a similar manner (e.g., "between" vs. "directly between", "adjacent" vs. "directly adjacent", etc.).

[0096] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are also intended to include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will also be understood that, when used herein, the terms “comprising,” “including,” “containing,” and / or “comprising” specify the presence of the stated feature, integer, step, operation, element, and / or component, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0097] It should also be noted that in some alternative implementations, the indicated functions / actions may not occur in the order shown in the figures. For example, depending on the functions / actions involved, the figures shown sequentially may actually be executed substantially simultaneously, or sometimes in reverse order.

[0098] Specific details have been provided in the foregoing description to provide a thorough understanding of the exemplary embodiments. However, those skilled in the art will understand that the exemplary embodiments can be practiced without these specific details. For example, systems may be illustrated as block diagrams to avoid obscuring the exemplary embodiments with unnecessary detail. In other instances, well-known processes, structures, and techniques may be shown without unnecessary detail to avoid obscuring the exemplary embodiments.

[0099] As discussed herein, illustrative embodiments have been described with reference to the actions and symbolic representations of operations that can be implemented as program modules or functional processes (e.g., in the form of flowcharts, diagrams, data flow graphs, structure diagrams, block diagrams, etc.). These program modules or functional processes include routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, etc., that perform specific tasks or implement specific abstract data types, and can be implemented using existing hardware, such as existing user equipment or other network elements and / or hardware. Such existing hardware can be processing or control circuitry systems, such as, but not limited to, one or more processors, one or more central processing units (CPUs), one or more controllers, one or more arithmetic logic units (ALUs), one or more digital signal processors (DSPs), one or more microcomputers, one or more field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), one or more system-on-a-chip (SoCs), one or more programmable logic units (PLUs), one or more microprocessors, one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), or any other one or more devices capable of responding to and executing instructions in a defined manner.

[0100] Although flowcharts can describe operations as a sequential process, many operations can be executed in parallel, concurrently, or simultaneously. Furthermore, the order of operations can be rearranged. A process may terminate when its operations are completed, but it may also have additional steps not included in the diagram. A process can correspond to a method, function, procedure, subroutine, subroutine, etc. When a process corresponds to a function, its termination can correspond to the function returning to the calling function or the main function.

[0101] As disclosed herein, the terms "storage medium," "computer-readable storage medium," or "non-transitory computer-readable storage medium" can refer to one or more devices for storing data, including read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic RAM, core memory, disk storage media, optical storage media, flash memory devices, and / or other tangible machine-readable media for storing information. The term "computer-readable medium" can include, but is not limited to, portable or fixed storage devices, optical storage devices, and various other non-transitory physical media capable of storing instructions and / or data.

[0102] Furthermore, the example embodiments can be implemented by hardware, software, firmware, middleware, microcode, hardware description languages, or any combination thereof. When implemented in software, firmware, middleware, or microcode, program code or code segments for performing necessary tasks can be stored in a machine or computer-readable medium, such as a computer-readable storage medium. When implemented in software, one or more processors will perform the necessary tasks. For example, as described above, according to one or more example embodiments, at least one memory may include or store computer program code, and at least one memory and computer program code may be configured, together with at least one processor, to enable network elements or network devices to perform necessary tasks. Additionally, the processor, memory, and example algorithms encoded as computer program code serve as components for providing or causing the execution of the operations discussed herein.

[0103] A code segment of computer program code can represent any combination of procedures, functions, subroutines, programs, routines, subroutines, modules, software packages, classes, or instructions, data structures, or program statements. A code segment can be coupled to another code segment or hardware circuit by passing and / or receiving information, data, arguments, parameters, or memory contents. Information, arguments, parameters, data, etc., can be passed, forwarded, or transmitted via any suitable technology, including memory sharing, message passing, token passing, network transmission, etc.

[0104] As used herein, the terms “including” and / or “having” are defined as including (i.e., open-ended). As used herein, the term “coupling” is defined as a connection, although not necessarily a direct or mechanical connection. Terms derived from the word “indication” (e.g., “indication” and “indication has”) are intended to encompass all the various techniques that can be used to transmit or reference the indicated object / information. Some, but not all, examples of techniques that can be used to transmit or reference the indicated object / information include the transmission of the indicated object / information, the transmission of an identifier of the indicated object / information, the transmission of information used to generate the indicated object / information, the transmission of a portion or part of the indicated object / information, the transmission of some derivation of the indicated object / information, and the transmission of a symbol representing the indicated object / information.

[0105] According to the example embodiment, user equipment, other network elements, etc., can be (or include) hardware, firmware, hardware executing software, or any combination thereof. Such hardware may include processing or control circuitry systems, such as, but not limited to, one or more processors, one or more CPUs, one or more controllers, one or more ALUs, one or more DSPs, one or more microcomputers, one or more FPGAs, one or more SoCs, one or more PLUs, one or more microprocessors, one or more ASICs, or any other one or more devices capable of responding to and executing instructions in a defined manner.

[0106] The benefits, other advantages, and solutions to problems have been described above with reference to specific embodiments of the invention. However, any benefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any elements that may lead to or result in such benefits, advantages, or solutions, or that make such benefits, advantages, or solutions more apparent, should not be construed as key, essential, or necessary features or elements of any or all claims. The foregoing description of embodiments has been provided for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or limiting of this disclosure. Various elements or features of a particular embodiment are generally not limited to that particular embodiment, but are interchangeable where applicable and may be used in selected embodiments, even if not specifically shown or described. This can also be varied in many ways. Such variations should not be considered as departing from this disclosure, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of this disclosure.

[0107] Furthermore, the various implementations of this disclosure can be described with reference to the following terms, and their features can be combined in any reasonable manner.

[0108] Clause 1. A user equipment comprising: a memory storing computer-executable instructions; and at least one processor configured to execute the computer-executable instructions to cause the user equipment to: obtain synchronization signal block (SSB) configuration parameters, the SSB configuration parameters being associated with an SS burst comprising a plurality of SSBs, the SSB configuration parameters defining different configurations for at least a first SSB and a second SSB among the plurality of SSBs; receive a first SSB based on the SSB configuration parameters, the first SSB comprising at least a synchronization signal; receive a second SSB based on the SSB configuration parameters, the second SSB comprising a synchronization signal and a physical broadcast channel; and access a radio network based on at least one of the first SSB or the second SSB.

[0109] Clause 2. The user equipment as described in Clause 1, wherein the SSB configuration parameters indicate that the physical broadcast channel is not included in the first SSB.

[0110] Clause 3. The user equipment as described in Clause 1, wherein the SSB configuration parameters include the period of at least one synchronization signal and the period of the physical broadcast channel.

[0111] Clause 4. The user equipment as described in Clause 3, wherein the period of the at least one synchronization signal and the period of the physical broadcast channel are the same.

[0112] Clause 5. The user equipment as described in Clause 3, wherein the period of the at least one synchronization signal and the period of the physical broadcast channel are different.

[0113] Clause 6. User equipment according to Clause 3 or 4, wherein the period specified by the SSB configuration parameters differs among the plurality of SSBs in the SS burst.

[0114] Clause 7. The user equipment pursuant to any one of the preceding clauses is configured to obtain the SSB configuration parameters by receiving the SSB configuration parameters via either a system information block or a radio resource control reconfiguration message.

[0115] Clause 8. The user equipment pursuant to any one of Clauses 1 to 5 above is configured to obtain the SSB configuration parameters by implicitly determining the SSB configuration parameters based on the Physical Broadcast Channel Demodulation Reference Signal (DMRS).

[0116] Clause 9. The user equipment according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the SSB beams in the SS burst are grouped into a set associated with SSBs having different configurations.

[0117] Clause 10. A method for use in a user equipment, the method comprising: obtaining synchronization signal block (SSB) configuration parameters, the SSB configuration parameters being associated with an SS burst comprising a plurality of SSBs, the SSB configuration parameters defining different configurations for at least a first SSB and a second SSB among the plurality of SSBs; receiving a first SSB based on the SSB configuration parameters, the first SSB comprising at least a synchronization signal; receiving a second SSB based on the SSB configuration parameters, the second SSB comprising a synchronization signal and a physical broadcast channel; and accessing a radio network based on at least one of the first SSB and the second SSB.

[0118] Clause 11. The method according to Clause 10, wherein the SSB configuration parameter indicates that the physical broadcast channel is not included in the first SSB.

[0119] Clause 12. The method according to Clause 10, wherein the SSB configuration parameters include the period of at least one synchronization signal and the period of the physical broadcast channel.

[0120] Clause 13. The method according to Clause 12, wherein the period of the at least one synchronization signal and the period of the physical broadcast channel are the same.

[0121] Clause 14. The method according to Clause 12, wherein the period of the at least one synchronization signal and the period of the physical broadcast channel are different.

[0122] Clause 15. The method according to Clause 12 or 13, wherein the period specified by the SSB configuration parameters differs among the plurality of SSBs in the burst.

[0123] Clause 16. The method according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein obtaining the SSB configuration parameters includes receiving the SSB configuration parameters via either a system information block or a radio resource control reconfiguration message.

[0124] Clause 17. The method according to any one of Clauses 10 to 14 above, wherein obtaining the SSB configuration parameters includes implicitly determining the SSB configuration parameters based on the Physical Broadcast Channel Demodulation Reference Signal (DMRS).

[0125] Clause 18. The method according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the SSB beams in the SS burst are grouped into a set associated with SSBs having different configurations.

[0126] Clause 19. A radio access network element comprising: a memory storing computer-executable instructions; and at least one processor configured to execute the computer-executable instructions to cause the radio access network element to: provide synchronization signal block (SSB) configuration parameters associated with an SS burst comprising a plurality of SSBs, the SSB configuration parameters indicating the period of at least one of a synchronization signal or a physical broadcast channel included in at least a first SSB of the plurality of SSBs; and transmit the SS burst comprising the first SSB according to the SSB configuration parameters, the first SSB comprising the synchronization signal, or one of the synchronization signal and the physical broadcast channel.

[0127] Clause 20. A radio access network element as described in Clause 19, wherein the SSB configuration parameters indicate which of the plurality of SSBs in the SS burst includes a physical broadcast channel and the period associated with the synchronization signal and the physical broadcast channel within the SS burst.

[0128] Clause 21. A user equipment comprising: a memory storing computer-executable instructions; and at least one processor configured to execute the computer-executable instructions to cause the user equipment to: obtain a first SSB comprising a synchronization signal and a physical broadcast channel based on synchronization signal block SSB configuration parameters, the SSB configuration parameters being associated with an SS burst comprising a plurality of SSBs, the SSB configuration parameters defining different configurations for at least the first SSB and a second SSB among the plurality of SSBs; obtain a second SSB based on the SSB configuration parameters, the second SSB comprising at least the synchronization signal; and access a radio network based on at least one of the first SSB or the second SSB.

Claims

1. A user equipment, comprising: Memory stores executable instructions for a computer; as well as At least one processor is configured to execute the computer-executable instructions to cause the user equipment to: Obtain the synchronization signal block (SSB) configuration parameters, which are associated with an SS burst comprising multiple SSBs. The SSB configuration parameters define different configurations for at least the first and second SSBs among the multiple SSBs. The first SSB is received based on the SSB configuration parameters, and the first SSB includes at least a synchronization signal. The second SSB is received based on the SSB configuration parameters. The second SSB includes a synchronization signal and a physical broadcast channel. Access to the radio network is based on at least one of the first SSB or the second SSB.

2. The user equipment according to claim 1, wherein the SSB configuration parameter indicates that the physical broadcast channel is not included in the first SSB.

3. The user equipment according to claim 1, wherein the SSB configuration parameters include the period of at least one synchronization signal and the period of the physical broadcast channel.

4. The user equipment according to claim 3, wherein the period of the at least one synchronization signal and the period of the physical broadcast channel are the same.

5. The user equipment according to claim 3, wherein the period of the at least one synchronization signal and the period of the physical broadcast channel are different.

6. The user equipment according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the period specified by the SSB configuration parameters is different among the plurality of SSBs in the SS burst.

7. The user equipment according to any one of claims 1 to 5, configured to obtain the SSB configuration parameters by receiving the SSB configuration parameters via one of a system information block or a radio resource control reconfiguration message.

8. The user equipment according to any one of claims 1 to 5, configured to obtain the SSB configuration parameters by implicitly determining the SSB configuration parameters based on the Physical Broadcast Channel Demodulation Reference Signal (DMRS).

9. The user equipment according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the SSB beams in the SS burst are grouped into a set associated with SSBs having different configurations.

10. A method used in a user equipment, the method comprising: Obtain the synchronization signal block (SSB) configuration parameters, which are associated with an SS burst comprising multiple SSBs. The SSB configuration parameters define different configurations for at least the first and second SSBs among the multiple SSBs. The first SSB is received based on the SSB configuration parameters, and the first SSB includes at least a synchronization signal. The second SSB is received based on the SSB configuration parameters. The second SSB includes a synchronization signal and a physical broadcast channel. Access to the radio network is based on at least one of the first SSB and the second SSB.

Images