Mehtod and apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable medium for communicating beam information for independent links

Abstract

The various states of this case involve beaming information for independent links. For example, beaming information for one link can be transmitted on at least one other link. In some states, an independent link can involve a first device (e.g., a user equipment) communicating with different devices (e.g., transmit-receive points (TRPs) or sets of TRPs) via different independent links. For example, the first device can communicate with a second device (e.g., a TRP) via a first link and with a third device (e.g., a TRP) via a second link. In some scenarios, a link can indicate beam switching of at least one other link. In some scenarios, a link can indicate link recovery of at least one other link. In some scenarios, a link can indicate link failure of at least one other link.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This patent application claims priority and interest in Provisional Application No. 62 / 378,137 filed with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office on August 22, 2016, Provisional Application No. 62 / 447,534 filed with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office on January 18, 2017, and Non-Provisional Application No. 15 / 659,598 filed with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office on July 25, 2017.

[0002] The various states described in this article relate to wireless communication, and more specifically, but not exclusively, to beam information used for independent links. Prior Technology

[0003] Wireless communication networks are widely deployed to provide various communication services, such as telephone, video, data, messaging, and broadcasting. These networks, typically consisting of multiple access networks, support communication for multiple users by sharing available network resources (e.g., when users are using devices such as User Equipment).

[0004] A UE can be served by multiple Transmitter-Receiver Points (TRPs). For example, Coordinated Multipoint (CoMP) technology uses joint transmission or dynamic point selection to enable the UE to communicate with different TRPs (e.g., gNodeB or eNodeB) on different links. Therefore, there is a need for technologies that enable devices to communicate efficiently over multiple links. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The following presents a brief overview of some aspects of this application to provide a basic understanding of these aspects. This invention is not a comprehensive overview of all anticipated features of this application, nor is it intended to determine the key or essential elements of all aspects of this application, nor to describe the scope of any or all aspects of this application. Its sole purpose is to present various concepts of certain aspects of this application in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that follows.

[0006] In some embodiments, this invention provides a method for communication, including: transmitting data via a first wireless communication link; and transmitting beam information for a second wireless communication link via the first wireless communication link.

[0007] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication, comprising a memory and a processor coupled to the memory. The processor and memory are configured to: transmit data via a first wireless communication link; and transmit beam information for a second wireless communication link via the first wireless communication link.

[0008] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication. The apparatus includes: a unit for transmitting data via a first wireless communication link; and a unit for transmitting beam information for a second wireless communication link via the first wireless communication link.

[0009] Another aspect of this case provides a non-transitory computer-readable medium for storing computer-executable code, including code for transmitting data via a first wireless communication link and transmitting beam information for a second wireless communication link via the first wireless communication link.

[0010] In some embodiments, this invention provides a method for communication, comprising: transmitting first beam information via a first control channel of a first wireless communication link; and transmitting second beam information via a second control channel of a second wireless communication link, wherein the first control channel is independent of the second control channel.

[0011] Another aspect of this application provides a device configured for communication, comprising a memory and a processor coupled to the memory. The processor and memory are configured to: transmit first beam information via a first control channel of a first wireless communication link; and transmit second beam information via a second control channel of a second wireless communication link, wherein the first control channel is independent of the second control channel.

[0012] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication. The apparatus includes: a unit for transmitting first beam information via a first control channel of a first wireless communication link; and a unit for transmitting second beam information via a second control channel of a second wireless communication link, wherein the first control channel is independent of the second control channel.

[0013] Another aspect of this case provides a non-temporary computer-readable medium for storing computer-executable code, including code for: transmitting first beam information via a first control channel of a first wireless communication link; and transmitting second beam information via a second control channel of a second wireless communication link, wherein the first control channel is independent of the second control channel.

[0014] These and other aspects of the invention will become more fully understood in the following detailed description. Other aspects, features, and implementations of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art after reading the following description of specific implementations in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Although features of the invention may be discussed with respect to certain implementations and the drawings below, all implementations of the invention may include one or more of the advantageous features discussed herein. In other words, although one or more implementations may be discussed as having certain advantageous features, one or more of these features may also be used according to the various implementations of the invention discussed herein. Similarly, although some implementations are discussed below as implementations of devices, systems, or methods, it should be understood that such implementations may be implemented in various devices, systems, and methods. Simple Explanation of the Diagram

[0015] The accompanying drawings are provided to help describe the various aspects of this case, and are provided only for illustrative purposes and not to limit its scope.

[0016] Figure 1 is a block diagram of an example communication system in which the state of this case can be implemented.

[0017] Figure 2 is a block diagram of an example communication system for communication via multiple independent links, based on some of the states described in this case.

[0018] Figure 3 is a block diagram of an example communication system in which various forms of beamforming can be implemented.

[0019] Figure 4 is a block diagram of an example device that supports independent links according to some of the conditions in this case.

[0020] Figure 5 is a diagram of an example antenna subarray used in the device according to some of the states of this case.

[0021] Figure 6 is a diagram illustrating example communication via an antenna subarray according to some of the states described in this case.

[0022] Figure 7 is a block diagram illustrating an example of multi-link channel sensing according to some of the conditions of this case.

[0023] Figure 8 is a block diagram illustrating an example of multi-link control information according to some of the conditions of this case.

[0024] Figure 9 is a block diagram illustrating an example of multi-link allocation according to some of the conditions in this case.

[0025] Figure 10 is a block diagram illustrating an example of multi-link power control according to some of the conditions of this case.

[0026] Figure 11 is a block diagram illustrating an example of multi-link channel status feedback according to some of the conditions in this case.

[0027] Figure 12 is a block diagram illustrating an example of multi-link beam information according to some of the conditions of this case.

[0028] Figure 13 is a block diagram illustrating an example of multi-link event triggering according to some of the states in this case.

[0029] Figure 14 is a block diagram illustrating an example hardware implementation of a communication-supporting device (e.g., an electronic device) according to some of the embodiments of this invention.

[0030] Figure 15 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a sensing information procedure according to some of the states in this case.

[0031] Figure 16 is a flowchart illustrating another example of a sensing information procedure according to some of the states in this case.

[0032] Figure 17 is a flowchart illustrating an example control information procedure according to some of the states in this case.

[0033] Figure 18 is a flowchart illustrating another example of a control information procedure according to some of the states in this case.

[0034] Figure 19 is a flowchart illustrating the instance allocation procedure according to some of the states in this case.

[0035] Figure 20 is a flowchart illustrating an example power control procedure according to some of the states in this case.

[0036] Figure 21 is a flowchart illustrating another example of a power control procedure according to some of the states in this case.

[0037] Figure 22 is a flowchart illustrating an example feedback procedure based on some of the states in this case.

[0038] Figure 23 is a flowchart illustrating another example of a feedback procedure based on some of the states in this case.

[0039] Figure 24 is a flowchart illustrating an example beam information procedure according to some of the states in this case.

[0040] Figure 25 is a flowchart illustrating another example of a beam information procedure according to some of the states in this case.

[0041] Figure 26 is a flowchart illustrating an instance event triggering procedure according to some of the states in this case.

[0042] Figure 27 is a flowchart illustrating another instance of an event triggering procedure based on some of the states in this case.

[0043] Figure 28 is a block diagram illustrating an example hardware implementation of a communication-supporting device (e.g., an electronic device) according to some of the embodiments of this invention.

[0044] Figure 29 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an independent link procedure according to some of the states in this case.

[0045] Figure 30 is a flowchart illustrating another example of an independent procedure based on some of the states in this case.

[0046] Figure 31 is a flowchart illustrating an example sensing procedure for some states according to this case.

[0047] Figure 32 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a sensing-related procedure based on some of the states in this case.

[0048] Figure 33 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a control information procedure according to some of the states in this case.

[0049] Figure 34 is a flowchart illustrating another example of a control information procedure according to some of the states in this case.

[0050] Figure 35 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an independent link procedure according to some of the states in this case.

[0051] Figure 36 is a flowchart illustrating another example of an independent link procedure based on some of the states in this case.

[0052] Figure 37 is a flowchart illustrating another example of an independent link procedure based on some of the states in this case.

[0053] Figure 38 is a flowchart illustrating another example of an independent link procedure based on some of the states in this case.

[0054] Figure 39 is a flowchart illustrating an example feedback procedure based on some of the states in this case.

[0055] Figure 40 is a flowchart illustrating another example of a feedback procedure based on some of the states in this case.

[0056] Figure 41 is a flowchart illustrating an example power control procedure according to some of the states in this case.

[0057] Figure 42 is a flowchart illustrating another example of a power control procedure according to some of the states in this case.

[0058] Figure 43 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an uplink detection procedure based on some of the states in this case.

[0059] Figure 44 is a flowchart illustrating another example of an uplink detection procedure based on some of the states in this case.

[0060] Figure 45 is a flowchart illustrating an example channel status feedback procedure according to some of the states in this case.

[0061] Figure 46 is a flowchart illustrating an example beam conversion information procedure according to some of the conditions of this case.

[0062] Figure 47 is a flowchart illustrating another example of a beam switching information procedure according to some of the states in this case.

[0063] Figure 48 is a flowchart illustrating an example beam recovery procedure according to some of the conditions in this case.

[0064] Figure 49 is a flowchart illustrating another example of a beam recovery procedure according to some of the conditions in this case.

[0065] Figure 50 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a state switching procedure according to this case.

[0066] Figure 51 is a flowchart illustrating another example of a switching procedure based on some of the states in this case.

[0067] Figure 52 is a flowchart illustrating an example link failure procedure according to some of the states in this case.

[0068] Figure 53 is a flowchart illustrating another example of a link failure procedure based on some of the states in this case.

[0069] Figure 54 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a transmission restriction procedure according to some of the states in this case.

[0070] Figure 55 is a flowchart illustrating another example of a transmission restriction procedure according to some of the states in this case. Implementation

[0071] This case involves communication via multiple independent links in some cases. For example, a user equipment (UE) may communicate with different transmit-receive points (TRPs) or groups of TRPs via different independent links. In some cases, a transport block carried by a specific independent link is processed independently of a transport block carried by any other independent link. In some cases, different links may be associated with different beams.

[0072] In some embodiments, this invention relates to different operations for multi-link, multi-beam communication. In a first implementation, links are grouped together as channel sensing groups. In a second implementation, control information for different links is transmitted via one or more of the links. A third implementation involves dynamically controlling the uplink and downlink allocation of different links. In a fourth implementation, power control at the device is based on transmissions on multiple links. In a fifth implementation, channel status feedback is based on the channel status of multiple links. A sixth implementation involves transmitting beam information for one link on at least one other link. In a seventh implementation, event triggering is based on measurements from multiple links.

[0073] The following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, is intended to describe various configurations and is not intended to represent the only configuration in which the concepts described herein can be practiced. The detailed description includes specific details and is intended to provide a thorough understanding of the various concepts. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art to which this invention pertains that these concepts can be practiced without these specific details. Furthermore, alternative configurations can be designed without departing from the scope of this invention. Additionally, well-known elements will not be described in detail or will be omitted so as not to obscure the relevant details of this invention.

[0074] The concepts presented in this paper can be implemented across a wide variety of telecommunications systems, network architectures, and communication standards. For example, the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) is a standards body that defines several wireless communication standards involving Evolved Packet Systems (EPS) networks, commonly referred to as Long Term Evolution (LTE) networks. Evolved versions of LTE networks, such as fifth-generation (5G) networks, can provide many different types of services or applications, including but not limited to web browsing, video streaming, VoIP, mission-critical applications, multi-hop networks, and remote operations with real-time feedback (e.g., remote surgery). Therefore, the teachings in this paper can be implemented based on a variety of network technologies, including but not limited to 5G, fourth-generation (4G), third-generation (3G), and other network architectures. Similarly, the various forms described herein can be extended to networks based on: 3GPP Long Term Evolution (LTE), LTE-A (LTE-A) (in FDD, TDD, or both), Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS), Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM), Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA), Evolved Data Optimization (EV-DO), Ultra Mobile Broadband (UMB), IEEE 802.11 (Wi-Fi), IEEE 802.16 (WiMAX), IEEE 802.20, Ultra Wideband (UWB), Bluetooth, and / or other suitable systems. Furthermore, the techniques described herein can be used for downlink, uplink, peer-to-peer links, or some other type of link.

[0075] The actual telecommunications standards, network architecture, and / or communication standards used will depend on the specific application and the overall design constraints imposed on the system. For illustrative purposes, the various states can be described below in the context of 5G, millimeter-wave (mmW), or LTE systems. However, it should be understood that the teachings herein can also be used in other systems. Therefore, it should be understood that references to functions in the context of 5G, mmW, or LTE terminology also apply to other types of technologies, networks, components, signaling, etc. Instance communication system

[0076] Figure 1 illustrates an example of a wireless communication system 100, in which user equipment (UE) can communicate with other devices via wireless communication signals. For example, a first UE 102 and a second UE 104 can communicate with TRP 106 using wireless communication resources managed by Transmitter-Receiver Point (TRP) 106 and / or other network components (e.g., core network 108, Internet Service Provider (ISP) 110, peer devices, etc.). In some implementations, one or more components of system 100 can communicate directly with each other via device-to-device (D2D) link 112 or some other similar type of direct link.

[0077] Communication of information between two or more components of system 100 may involve multiple independent links. For example, UE 102 may communicate with TRP 106 via a first link and with TRP 114 via a second link. Alternatively or additionally, some other components of system 100 may communicate via two or more independent links. Therefore, in accordance with the teachings herein, one or more of UE 102, UE 104, TRP 106, or some other components of system 100 may include a module for multi-link signaling 116.

[0078] The components and links of the wireless communication system 100 can take different forms in different implementations. For example, but not limited to, the UE can be a cellular device, an Internet of Things (IoT) device, a cellular IoT (CIoT) device, an LTE wireless cellular device, a machine-type communication (MTC) cellular device, a smart alarm, a remote sensor, a smartphone, a mobile phone, a smart meter, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a personal computer, a grid node, and a tablet computer.

[0079] In some instances, a TRP can refer to an entity that includes radio head functionality for a specific entity cell. In some instances, a TRP can include 5G New Radio (NR) functionality with an air interface based on Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM). NR can support, for example, but not limited to, enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB), mission-critical services, and large-scale deployment of IoT devices. The functionality of a TRP in one or more instances can resemble (or incorporate) the functionality of a CIoT base station (C-BS), NodeB, evolved NodeB (eNodeB), Radio Access Network (RAN) access node, Radio Network Controller (RNC), base station (BS), Radio Base Station (RBS), Base Station Controller (BSC), Base Station Transceiver (BTS), Transceiver Function (TF), Radio Transceiver, Radio Router, Basic Service Set (BSS), Extended Service Set (ESS), Macro Cell, Macro Node, Home eNB (HeNB), Femtocell, Femtonode, Pipette, or some other suitable entity. In different scenarios (e.g., NR, LTE, etc.), TRP may be referred to as gNodeB (gNB), eNB, base station, or other terms.

[0080] Various types of network-to-device (Network-to-device) links and device-to-device (D2D) links can be supported in the wireless communication system 100. For example, D2D links may include, but are not limited to, machine-to-machine (M2M) links, machine-to-computer (MTC) links, vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) links, and vehicle-to-anything (V2X) links. Network-to-device links may include, but are not limited to, uplinks (or reverse links), downlinks (or forward links), and vehicle-to-network (V2N) links. Independent link of the instance

[0081] Figure 2 illustrates a communication system 200, in which a user equipment (UE) 202 communicates with at least one transmit-receive point (TRP) 204 and at least one TRP 206 via independent links 208 and 210, respectively. In different implementations, TRP 204 can be a single TRP or a group of TRPs. Similarly, TRP 206 can be a single TRP or a group of TRPs. The number of independent links can be 2, 3, or more. To reduce the complexity of Figure 2, only two links are shown. In some implementations, UE 202 can correspond to UE 102, UE 104, or some other components of Figure 1. In some implementations, TRP 204 or TRP 206 can correspond to TRP 106, TRP 114, or some other components of Figure 1.

[0082] Links 208 and 210 are independent in the sense that UE 202 processes transport blocks (TBs) independently for each link. For example, a first TB process 212 can process the TB of link 208 independently of a second TB process 214 that processes the TB of link 210. In some cases, this independent processing involves error checking of the TB. For example, TBs of different links can be overridden by their own independent cyclic redundancy check (CRC) values. Therefore, in this case, the CRC processing performed by the first TB process 212 is independent of the CRC processing performed by the second TB process 214.

[0083] A TRP can establish multiple independent links with a UE. For example, after establishing a first link with the UE, a TRP can configure at least one other TRP to establish at least one other link with the UE. In some cases, each link can have its own unique identifier (ID) and use a unique scrambling ID.

[0084] In some configurations, TRP can refer to an entity that incorporates the radio head function for a specific entity cell. This function, in one or more configurations, can resemble (or incorporate) the functions of a NodeB, eNodeB, gNodeB, Radio Network Controller (RNC), Base Station (BS), Radio Base Station (RBS), Base Station Controller (BSC), Base Transceiver Station (BTS), Transceiver Function (TF), Radio Transceiver, Radio Router, Basic Service Set (BSS), Extended Service Set (ESS), Macro Cell, Macro Node, Home eNB (HeNB), Femtocell, FemtoNode, Pipette, or some other similar entity. TRPs 204 and 206 in Figure 2 can communicate with each other via network entity 216, direct communication link 218, or some other link. Example of a beamforming system

[0085] In some implementations, multiple independent links are used by a device equipped with multiple transmit antennas and multiple receive antennas. One example is a millimeter-wave (mmW) system, where multiple antennas are used for beamforming (e.g., in the range of 30 GHz, 60 GHz, etc.). For example, the device can communicate with other devices in time division multiplexing (TDM) or time division duplex (TDD) modes. That is, a particular device can send to (or receive from) a first device in a first time interval, and then subsequently send to (or receive from) a second device in a second time interval.

[0086] Figure 3 illustrates a communication system 300, in which mmW UE 302 communicates with a first mmW TRP 304 and a second mmW TRP 306 via different beamforming directions. In some cases, mmW UE 302, the first mmW TRP 304, and the second mmW TRP 306 may correspond to UE 202, at least one TRP 204, and at least one TRP 206 in Figure 2, respectively.

[0087] As shown in beamset 308, the mmW UE 302 can communicate via any of the plurality of directional beams. As shown in beamset 310, the first mmW TRP 304 can communicate via any of the plurality of directional beams. As shown in beamset 312, the second mmW TRP 306 can communicate via any of the plurality of directional beams. For example, the UE 302 can communicate with the first mmW TRP 304 via a first beamforming direction 314 and with the second mmW TRP 306 via a second beamforming direction 316. Example of a beamforming device

[0088] Figure 4 illustrates in more detail a device 400 (e.g., a UE) that supports multiple independent links and beams. In some cases, device 400 may correspond to UE 202 of Figure 2 or mmW UE 302 of Figure 3.

[0089] The device has "N" intermediate frequency (IF) / baseband chains 402. N can be 2 or greater. Each IF chain can be connected to multiple RF chains 404 (M). M can be one or more. Each RF chain can be connected to an antenna element (e.g., subarray) 406. Therefore, each IF / baseband chain 402 (e.g., for a corresponding TB procedure 408) can be connected to a different subarray at the device. Due to the dynamics (e.g., congestion) of the mmW channel, the subarrays at the device can be used to improve robustness. That is, antenna diversity can improve communication performance at the device. For example, if one link (or more than one link) is congested, the device can still communicate via another link or other links.

[0090] In mmW systems, multiple subarrays can be used at the device to cover different beam directions. In some implementations, rank-2 reception at the device (e.g., for MIMO) can be achieved via dual polarization at a subarray (e.g., patch antenna). In some implementations, rank-2 reception at the device can be achieved via {H,H},{V,V},{H,V},{V,H} polarization, where H (horizontal) or V (vertical) polarization is located in different subarrays (e.g., dipole antennas).

[0091] Due to physical limitations, dual polarization may be difficult to achieve for certain placements of subarrays in a device (e.g., a telephone). For example, dual polarization may be difficult to achieve for subarrays located at the edge or top of a telephone.

[0092] Figure 5 illustrates an example of how an antenna subarray is located in device 500 (e.g., a telephone). In some cases, device 500 may correspond to UE 202 of Figure 2, mmW UE 302 of Figure 3, or device 400 of Figure 4.

[0093] Each dipole antenna 502 can be used for H or V polarization. The patch antenna 504 can be used for dual polarization.

[0094] This case involves the use of entity / space separation for different subarrays to enable each IF chain to be served by the corresponding TRP. Therefore, two or more independent transport blocks (TBs) can be served by two or more different TRPs using two or more IF chains.

[0095] For example, as shown in Figure 6, the first antenna subarray 602 of device 600 receives a first TB from a first group of TRPs (e.g., one or more TRPs) via a first link 604, while the second antenna subarray 606 receives a second TB from a second group of TRPs (e.g., one or more TRPs) via a second link 608. Additional TBs can be received from other TRPs via other links. For example, links can be established via a third subarray 610, patch antenna 612, or some other antennas (not shown). Each of these links can be independent, as described above.

[0096] Since the antenna subarrays of device 600 (e.g., UE) can have different polarizations (e.g., H or V), different TRPs can concurrently serve the corresponding TBs for device 600 via different antenna subarrays. For example, the first TRP can send TB1 to the first antenna subarray 602 at the same time that the second TRP sends TB2 to the second antenna subarray 606. In some cases, device 600 can correspond to UE 202 of FIG. 2, mmW UE 302 of FIG. 3, device 400 of FIG. 4, or device 500 of FIG. 5. Communication via multiple independent links

[0097] In some cases, this case involves sharing resources across various multi-link scenarios. In some cases, each link can be independent, as discussed herein (e.g., the TB of each link is processed independently).

[0098] Furthermore, as mentioned above, a specific link may correspond to a specific beam transmitted and / or received via a specific subarray or a specific set of subarrays. Therefore, in some cases, this application involves sharing resources in various multi-link, multi-beam scenarios.

[0099] Based on the teachings of this paper, the following operations can be supported by combining communications via multiple independent links: channel sensing for multiple links, control channel transmission / reception to / from multiple TRPs, HARQ feedback to multiple TRPs, subframe allocation for multiple links, power control for multiple links, uplink detection for multiple links, downlink CSI reception for multiple links, beam switching procedures for multiple links, beam recovery procedures for multiple links, RACH procedures for multiple links, measurements for multiple links, and event triggering for multiple links. Examples of these operations are generalized into the categories of channel sensing, control information, allocation, power control, channel status feedback, beam information, and event triggering. Multi-link channel sensing

[0100] This case relates to multi-link, multi-beam scenarios involving encapsulating links together as channel sensing groups. For example, the same channel sensing parameters can be used for links within the group. As another example, the decision to transmit via one or more links in the group can be based on channel sensing of one or more links in the group (e.g., where sensing of different links can cover different beam directions).

[0101] Figure 7 illustrates an example of this scenario. Figure 7 illustrates a communication system 700, in which UE 702 communicates with a first TRP 704 via a first link 708 and with a second TRP 706 via a second link 710. UE 702 includes a first channel sensing function 712 for acquiring channel information about the first link 708 and a second channel sensing function 714 for acquiring channel information about the second link 710. The first TRP 704 includes a first channel sensing function 716 for acquiring channel information about the first link 708. The second TRP 706 includes a second channel sensing function 718 for acquiring channel information about the second link 710. In some cases, UE 702 may correspond to UE 202 of Figure 2, mmW UE 302 of Figure 3, device 400 of Figure 4, or device 500 of Figure 5. In some cases, TRP 704 or TRP 706 may correspond to TRP 204 in Figure 2, TRP 206 in Figure 2, mmW TRP 304 in Figure 3, or mmW TRP 306 in Figure 3.

[0102] Based on the teachings of this document, any of UE 702, first TRP 704, or second TRP 706 can support a channel sensing group for first link 708 and second link 710. For example, at UE 702, first channel sensing 712 and second channel sensing 714 can coordinate to share sensing information or use the same sensing parameters. As another example, first channel sensing 716 of first TRP 704 and second channel sensing 718 of second TRP 706 can coordinate (e.g., via link 720) to share sensing information or use the same sensing parameters.

[0103] These and other states of channel sensing in multi-link scenarios are discussed below in the section entitled "Examples of Multi-Link Channel Sensing". Multi-link control information

[0104] This case involves multi-link, multi-beam scenarios, which involve transmitting control information for different links via one or more links. For example, a link can carry control information for multiple links (e.g., a control channel on a link can indicate the presence of at least one other link or the amount of data transmitted on it; or a link can send feedback for multiple links). As another example, each link can be provisioned (e.g., as a primary link or a secondary link) to carry a specific type of control information for one or more links.

[0105] Figure 8 illustrates an example of this scenario. Figure 8 illustrates a communication system 800, in which UE 802 communicates with a first TRP 804 via a first link 808 and with a second TRP 806 via a second link 810. UE 802 includes a control information management function 812 for sending and receiving control information via the first link 808 and the second link 810. The first TRP 804 includes a control information management function 816 for sending and receiving control information via the first link 808. The second TRP 806 includes a control information management function 818 for sending and receiving control information via the second link 810. In some cases, UE 802 may correspond to UE 202 of Figure 2, mmW UE 302 of Figure 3, or device 400 of Figure 4 or device 500 of Figure 5. In some cases, TRP 804 or TRP 806 may correspond to TRP 204 of Figure 2, TRP 206 of Figure 2, mmW TRP 304 of Figure 3, or mmW TRP 306 of Figure 3.

[0106] Based on the teachings of this document, any of UE 802, first TRP 804, or second TRP 806 can support the transmission of control information for one link via another link. For example, the control information management 812 of UE 802 can transmit first link control information 822 on second link 810. As another example, the control information management of first TRP 804 can coordinate with the control information management of second TRP 806 (e.g., via link 820) to transmit first link control information 822 on second link 810.

[0107] These and other states of transmitting control information in a multi-link scheme are discussed in the following sections entitled Multi-link Control Channel Communication Examples, Link Indication Examples, and Multi-link HARQ Feedback Examples. Multi-link subframe allocation

[0108] This case concerns multi-link, multi-beam scenarios involving dynamic control of uplink (UL) and downlink (DL) allocation for different links. For example, a device can transmit signals for UL / DL allocation across different links. If the isolation between links is high, different TDD / FDD subframe structures can be used. If the isolation is low, or for certain types of information (e.g., control information), the transmission direction of one link may be restricted to the same (or a subset thereof) direction as another link (e.g., the links can use the same TDD / FDD frame structure). Furthermore, probing on different links can be time-division multiplexed (TDM).

[0109] Figure 9 illustrates an example of this scenario. Figure 9 illustrates a communication system 900, in which UE 902 communicates with a first TRP 904 via a first link 908 and with a second TRP 906 via a second link 910. UE 902 includes a link allocation function 912 that allocates uplink and downlink resources based on first information 922 about the first link 908 and second information 924 about the second link 910. The first TRP 904 and the second TRP 906 may each include similar link allocation functions 916 and 918, respectively. In some cases, UE 902 may correspond to UE 202 of Figure 2, mmW UE 302 of Figure 3, or device 400 of Figure 4 or device 500 of Figure 5. In some cases, TRP 904 or TRP 906 may correspond to TRP 204 of Figure 2, TRP 206 of Figure 2, mmW TRP 304 of Figure 3, or mmW TRP 306 of Figure 3.

[0110] According to the teachings of this document, any of UE 902, first TRP 904, or second TRP 906 can allocate uplink and downlink resources based on first information 922 and second information 924. For example, if first information 922 and second information 924 indicate high isolation between first link 908 and second link 910, then link allocation 912 of UE 902 can allocate different TDD / FDD subframe structures for first link 908 and second link 910. Link allocation 916 of first TRP 904 and link allocation 918 of second TRP 906 can similarly coordinate (e.g., by sharing first information 922 or second information 924 via link 920) to allocate subframe structures for first link 908 and second link 910.

[0111] These and other patterns of resource allocation in multi-link scenarios are discussed below in the sections entitled Multi-link Subframe Allocation Examples and Multi-link Probe Examples. Multi-link power control

[0112] This case involves power control at the device level in multi-link, multi-beam scenarios where power control is based on transmissions across multiple links. For example, the UE's power control can be based on power control commands received on multiple links. As another example, the transmission power on multiple links can be considered to meet power control constraints.

[0113] Figure 10 illustrates an example of this scenario. Figure 10 illustrates a communication system 1000, in which a UE 1002 communicates with a first TRP 1004 via a first link 1008 and with a second TRP 1006 via a second link 1010. The UE 1002 includes a power control function 1012 for controlling transmission power based on first information 1022 regarding the first link 1008 and second information 1024 regarding the second link 1010. The first TRP 1004 and the second TRP 1006 may each include similar power control functions 1016 and 1018, respectively. In some cases, the UE 1002 may correspond to the UE 202 of Figure 2, the mmW UE 302 of Figure 3, the device 400 of Figure 4, or the device 500 of Figure 5. In some cases, TRP 1004 or TRP 1006 may correspond to TRP 204 of Figure 2, TRP 206 of Figure 2, mmW TRP 304 of Figure 3, or mmW TRP 306 of Figure 3.

[0114] Based on the teachings of this document, any of UE 1002, the first TRP 1004, or the second TRP 1006 can control transmission power based on first information 1022 and second information 1024. For example, the power control 1012 of UE 1002 can set power control constraints for the first link 1008 and / or the second link 1010 based on first information 1022 (e.g., a power control command on the first link 1008) and second information 1024 (e.g., a power control command on the second link 1010). The power control 1016 of the first TRP 1004 and the power control 1018 of the second TRP 1006 can similarly coordinate (e.g., by sharing first information 1022 or second information 1024 via link 1020) to control the transmission power on the first link 1008 and / or the second link 1010.

[0115] These and other patterns of resource allocation in multi-link scenarios are discussed in the section entitled "Examples of Multi-Link Power Control". Multi-link channel status feedback

[0116] This case involves some aspects of multi-link, multi-beam scenarios where channel status feedback is based on the channel status of multiple links. For example, channel status information (CSI) feedback can take into account CSI-RS from multiple links (e.g., if the antenna subarrays of the links are close to each other and / or depend on channel conditions).

[0117] Figure 11 illustrates an example of this scenario. Figure 11 illustrates a communication system 1100, in which UE 1102 communicates with a first TRP 1104 via a first link 1108 and with a second TRP 1106 via a second link 1110. UE 1102 includes a Channel State Feedback (CSFB) control function 1112 that provides feedback based on first information 1122 regarding the first link 1108 and second information 1124 regarding the second link 1110. The first TRP 1104 and the second TRP 1106 may each include similar functions for CSFB control 1116 and 1118, respectively. In some cases, UE 1102 may correspond to UE 202 of Figure 2, mmW UE 302 of Figure 3, device 400 of Figure 4, or device 500 of Figure 5. In some cases, TRP 1104 or TRP 1106 may correspond to TRP 204 or TRP 206 in Figure 2, or mmW TRP 304 or mmW TRP 306 in Figure 3.

[0118] According to the teachings of this document, any of UE 1102, first TRP 1104, or second TRP 1106 can provide feedback based on first information 1122 and second information 1124. For example, if the antenna subarrays of first link 1108 and second link 1110 are close to each other, CSFB control 1112 of UE 1102 can generate CSI feedback based on first information 1122 (e.g., CSI-RS from first link 1108) and second information 1124 (e.g., CSI-RS from second link 1110). CSFB control 1116 of first TRP 1104 and CSFB control 1118 of second TRP 1106 can similarly coordinate (e.g., by sharing first information 1122 or second information 1124 via link 1120) to provide multi-link-based feedback.

[0119] These and other states of resource allocation in multi-link scenarios are discussed in the section entitled "Examples of Multi-Link Channel State Feedback". Multi-link beam information

[0120] This case involves, in some cases, a multi-link, multi-beam scenario in which beaming information for one link is transmitted over at least one other link. For example, one link may indicate beam switching, link recovery, or link failure of at least one other link.

[0121] Figure 12 illustrates an example of this scenario. Figure 12 illustrates a communication system 1200, in which UE 1202 communicates with a first TRP 1204 via a first link 1208 and with a second TRP 1206 via a second link 1210. UE 1202 includes a beam control function 1212 for transmitting and receiving beam information via the first link 1208 and the second link 1210. The first TRP 1204 includes a beam control function 1216 for transmitting and receiving beam information via the first link 1208. The second TRP 1206 includes a beam control function 1218 for transmitting and receiving beam information via the second link 1210. In some cases, UE 1202 may correspond to UE 202 of Figure 2, mmW UE 302 of Figure 3, device 400 of Figure 4, or device 500 of Figure 5. In some cases, TRP 1204 or TRP 1206 may correspond to TRP 204 of Figure 2, TRP 206 of Figure 2, mmW TRP 304 of Figure 3, or mmW TRP 306 of Figure 3.

[0122] Based on the teachings of this document, any of UE 1202, first TRP 1204, or second TRP 1206 can support the transmission of beaming information of one link via another link. For example, beam control 1212 of UE 1202 can transmit first link beaming information 1222 on second link 1210. As another example, beam control of first TRP 1204 can be combined with beam control of second TRP 1206 (e.g., via link 1220) to transmit first link beaming information 1222 on second link 1210.

[0123] These and other states of resource allocation in multi-link schemes are discussed below in the sections entitled Multi-link Beam Conversion Examples, Multi-link Beam Recovery Examples, and Multi-link RACH Procedure Examples. Multi-link event triggering

[0124] This case involves several scenarios involving multiple links and multiple beams, where event triggering is based on measurements from multiple links. For example, event triggering could be based on aggregated measurements from multiple links.

[0125] Figure 13 illustrates an example of this scenario. Figure 13 illustrates a communication system 1300, in which a UE 1302 communicates with a first TRP 1304 via a first link 1308 and with a second TRP 1306 via a second link 1310. The UE 1302 includes an event control function 1312 for providing feedback based on first information 1322 regarding the first link 1308 and second information 1324 regarding the second link 1310. The first TRP 1304 and the second TRP 1306 may each include similar functions for event control 1316 and 1318, respectively. According to the teachings herein, any of the UE 1302, the first TRP 1304, or the second TRP 1306 may provide event triggering based on the first information 1322 and the second information 1324. For example, event control 1312 of UE 1302 can generate event triggering based on first information 1322 (e.g., measurements from first link 1308) and second information 1324 (e.g., measurements from second link 1310). Event control 1316 of first TRP 1304 and event control 1318 of second TRP 1306 can similarly coordinate (e.g., by sharing first information 1322 or second information 1324 via link 1320) to provide multi-link-based event triggering.

[0126] The following section, titled "Multi-link Measurement and Event-Triggering Examples," discusses these and other patterns of resource allocation in multi-link scenarios. Multi-link channel sensing example

[0127] This case involves multi-link channel sensing in some aspects. In some implementations, the device can use a pre-talk listening (LBT) scheme with shared access (e.g., shared spectrum between TRPs) on N links, where N>=2. In some aspects, the TRP or UE can use LBT-based channel sensing to determine whether the TRP or UE is allowed to transmit on the channel.

[0128] For example, prior to transmission, the device may sense energy or monitor control signals on the channel (e.g., from the TRP or UE). Alternatively or additionally, the device may obtain information from another device indicating the results of energy sensing or message decoding on the channel performed by that other device. For convenience, energy sensing and / or control signal monitoring may be simply referred to as sensing herein. Furthermore, sensing may refer to other types of sensing besides energy sensing and control signal monitoring. Information obtained as a result of such sensing (e.g., energy sensing, control signal monitoring, etc.) may be referred to herein as sensing information.

[0129] In some cases, sensing can be associated with a specific link. For example, in some situations, sensing can be performed using the same beam used for communication via a specific link (e.g., via the use of the same antenna subarray and antenna setup). Therefore, in some cases, a device can perform a sensing operation on a first link, another sensing operation on a second link, and so on. In some cases, a sensing operation for a specific link may be referred to herein as sensing a channel used for (or associated with) a link.

[0130] Therefore, the device can determine whether to transmit on one or more links based on the results of energy sensing, message decoding (e.g., based on message content), or some other form of sensing. For example, if sensing indicates that transmission is unlikely to interfere with reception at nearby devices (e.g., devices communicating with other devices), the device may transmit on a particular link. Alternatively or additionally, the device can determine how to transmit on one or more links based on sensing. For example, if sensing indicates that transmission without adjustment may interfere with reception at nearby devices, the device may adjust its beam (or some other transmission parameters) for a particular link.

[0131] In light of the above, for multi-link scenarios, the device can obtain sensing information for one or more links (e.g., before transmission on any link). For example, a device communicating via a first link and a second link can decide whether to transmit on the first link based on sensing of the first link, and whether to transmit on the second link based on sensing of the second link. As another example, the device can decide whether to transmit on the first link based on sensing of both the first and second links. As another example, the device can decide whether to transmit on both the first and second links based on sensing of the first link. As yet another example, the device can decide whether to transmit on both the first and second links based on sensing of both the first and second links. Similar sensing schemes can be used in configurations with more than two links.

[0132] In one example scenario, channel sensing can be performed independently of other links for each link. For example, the thresholds, parameters, procedures, or any combination thereof used for sensing can be independent for each link. As a specific example, channel sensing on the first link can be based on a first set of parameters and a first procedure, while channel sensing on the second link can be based on a second set of parameters and a second procedure.

[0133] In another example, two or more links can be combined together as a channel sensing group. Therefore, in some cases, LBT can be performed as a group on the links. For example, the device can monitor control signals on one or more links in the group and determine whether to transmit on one or more links in the group based on the sensing results. In some implementations, the device can sense one link in the group and determine whether to transmit on two or more links in the group (e.g., all links or a subset of links) based on the sensing results. In some implementations, the device can sense on multiple links, combine the sensing results, and determine whether to transmit on two or more links in the group based on the combined sensing results. In some implementations, the same channel sensing parameters can be used for the links in the group.

[0134] In some scenarios, packet-based channel sensing can provide improved sensing. For example, a given subarray (e.g., a dipole antenna) may not have omnidirectional (360-degree) coverage. Therefore, sensing via a given subarray may only provide a partial picture of the surrounding environment. In this case, it is possible that the device may not detect any signal on the link corresponding to the first direction from the device and therefore choose to transmit. However, the device's transmission may still interfere with the receiver located in the second direction from the device. Therefore, when deciding whether to transmit on any or all links in a group, it is advantageous to consider sensing on each of the multiple links (e.g., which together can provide broader coverage). Thus, sensing on multiple links can demonstrate better LBT results.

[0135] In view of the foregoing, this application relates in some respects to multi-link, multi-beam channel sensing for devices communicating via all links in a set of links. For example, a UE may communicate via multiple links, each associated with a corresponding beam. The UE may communicate with a first TRP via a first link (first beam), with at least one other TRP via at least one second link (at least one second beam), and so on. In this case, the UE may perform channel sensing on each of these links independently or as a group as described above.

[0136] Furthermore, this application relates in some cases to multi-link, multi-beam channel sensing for devices that communicate only on a subset of links in a set of links. For example, a TRP may communicate with a UE via a first link (first beam), and the UE may communicate with at least one other TRP via at least one other link (at least one second beam). In this case, the TRP communicates via a subset of links. In some scenarios, the device (e.g., the TRP) may perform channel sensing independently of channel sensing on a subset of links. In other scenarios, the device may coordinate with at least one other device (e.g., the UE, another TRP, etc.) to perform channel sensing as a set (as described above). For this purpose, the device may communicate with another device via another link (e.g., a TRP-to-TRP channel).

[0137] This application relates in some aspects to signal transmission support for multi-link channel sensing. Here, one device can communicate with another device (or other devices) to determine how channel sensing should be performed. For example, the device can indicate which links are grouped together, how group sensing is performed (e.g., sensing on all links or a subset of links), and so on. This signal transmission can, for example, be from TRP to UE, from UE to TRP, from TRP to another TRP, from UE to another UE, or between other types of devices. Multi-link control channel communication example

[0138] One or more control channels can be defined from multiple TRPs to a single UE. The control channel can be a physical downlink control channel (PDCCH) or some other suitable channel. In some cases, the control channel indicates how data is transmitted and / or decoded on a downlink channel (e.g., a physical downlink shared channel, PDSCH) or on an uplink channel.

[0139] In one scenario, this case involves supporting multiple links, each with its own independent control channel. Therefore, in this case, a device (e.g., a UE) communicating via multiple links sends and receives control information on one link independently of any other link.

[0140] In another embodiment, this invention relates to supporting multiple links, where control information for a link can be transmitted via a control channel on at least one other link. In some embodiments, a single link (e.g., a control channel on the link) can transmit control information for multiple (N) links. For example, a set of links can specify a subset (one or more) of the links used to transmit control information. Thus, one link (or multiple links) can be used as a control channel for at least one other link.

[0141] In some systems, links can be dynamically allocated for transmitting control information. Some systems use primary and secondary links, where different links can carry different information or carry information in different ways. For example, the primary link may transmit control information more frequently, or it may transmit more important control information (e.g., ACK / NACK or mission-critical signal transmissions). Therefore, if the primary link is blocked (or otherwise compromised), the device can dynamically reallocate control information to be transmitted on the secondary links.

[0142] As another example of dynamic allocation, different links can have similar reliability and / or channel quality (e.g., links can carry data on the same carrier frequency). Therefore, different links may be equally suitable for carrying control information. Thus, the device can dynamically select one or more links to carry control information. For example, if the first link carrying control information is blocked or otherwise adversely affected, control can temporarily switch to a second link. Therefore, the device can assign different links to carry control information at different times.

[0143] As another example of dynamic allocation, a device can assign one link to some control information and another link to another control information. The information carried by each link may change dynamically over time.

[0144] In view of the foregoing, this application relates in some forms to the transmission of multi-link, multi-beam control information signals for devices communicating via all links in a set of links. For example, a UE may communicate via multiple links, each associated with a corresponding beam. The UE may communicate with a first TRP via a first link (first beam), with at least one other TRP via at least one second link (at least one second beam), and so on. In this case, the UE may transmit control information independently on each of these links, or the UE may transmit control information on one or more links as a group, as described above.

[0145] Furthermore, this application involves, in some cases, multi-link, multi-beam channel sensing of devices that communicate only on a subset of links within a set of links. For example, a TRP may communicate with a UE via a first link (first beam), and the UE may communicate with at least one other TRP via at least one other link (at least one second beam). In this case, the TRP communicates via a subset of links. In some scenarios, a device (e.g., a TRP) may transmit control information on a subset of links independently of control information transmission on other links. In other scenarios, a device may coordinate with at least one other device (e.g., a UE, another TRP, etc.) to transmit control information on one or more links as a set (as described above). To this end, the device may communicate with another device via another link (e.g., a TRP-to-TRP channel) to obtain control information from the other device for another link, or to send control information for a link to another device.

[0146] This application involves, in some aspects, support for signal transmission across multiple control channels. Here, one device can communicate with another device (or other devices) to determine how to send control information. For example, the device can indicate which links will carry what type of control information, the time a specific link will carry the control information, and so on. This signal transmission can, for example, be from TRP to UE, from UE to TRP, from TRP to another TRP, from UE to another UE, or between other types of devices. Link indication example

[0147] In some cases, control information can take the form of link indications. Link indications can indicate the existence of another link or other links (e.g., other active links).

[0148] In some cases, this application involves the use of link indication on at least one control channel between multiple TRPs and a UE. To improve robustness, the control channel on the first link can carry link indication to indicate the presence of another link or other links. This ensures greater reliability during reception. For example, by knowing that another TRP is sending data to the UE, the UE will know to check if it has missed a transmission from the TRP. If the UE misses a transmission, it can take appropriate action (e.g., initiate a retransmission).

[0149] Link indications can be sent in various ways. In some cases, a link indication can be included in the payload of a link to indicate the presence of at least one other link. In other cases, a link indication can indicate that control information arrives (or will arrive) via at least one other link (e.g., in the current subframe or some other subframe). This signal transmission can, for example, be from TRP to UE, from UE to TRP, from TRP to another TRP, from UE to another UE, or between other types of devices.

[0150] In view of the foregoing, this application relates in some respects to multi-link, multi-beam channel sensing for devices communicating via all links in a set of links. For example, a UE can communicate via multiple links, each associated with a corresponding beam. The UE can communicate with a first TRP via a first link (first beam), with at least one other TRP via at least one second link (at least one second beam), and so on. In this case, the transmission or reception of a link indication for one link by the UE can be performed on another link.

[0151] Furthermore, this application involves, in some cases, multi-link, multi-beam channel sensing for devices that communicate only on a subset of links in a set of links. For example, a TRP may communicate with a UE via a first link (first beam), and the UE may communicate with at least one other TRP via at least one other link (at least one second beam). In this case, the TRP communicates via a subset of links. In some scenarios, a device (e.g., a TRP) may send or receive link indications for a link on another link. For this purpose, TRPs may share link information with each other. For example, a first TRP may indicate the existence of a link (e.g., a link active at the first TRP) to a second TRP via a backhaul, a TRP-to-TRP link, or some other type of link. Multi-link HARQ feedback instance

[0152] In some cases, control information may take the form of a Hybrid Automatic Repeat Request (HARQ) response or some other type of response (e.g., uplink control signal transmission). For illustrative purposes, the following discussion will describe a HARQ scenario. However, it should be understood that these concepts can be applied to other types of feedback.

[0153] In one scenario, this case involves supporting multiple links, each with its own independent HARQ feedback. Therefore, in this case, a device (e.g., a UE) communicating via multiple links processes (e.g., sends or receives) HARQ feedback on one link, independent of the HARQ feedback on any other link.

[0154] In another embodiment, this case involves supporting HARQ processing across multiple links. In some embodiments, a single link (or a subset of links) can handle (e.g., send or receive) HARQ feedback from multiple (N) links. For example, a set of links can specify a subset (one or more) of links used for sending HARQ feedback. Thus, one link (or multiple links) can be used as a HARQ channel for at least one other link. Furthermore, HARQ feedback can respond to information received on one or more links.

[0155] In some systems, links can be dynamically allocated for sending feedback. Some systems use primary and secondary links, where different links can carry different feedback or carry feedback in different ways. For example, the primary link might send feedback more frequently or send more important feedback (e.g., ACK / NACK). Therefore, if the primary link is blocked (or otherwise compromised), the device can dynamically reallocate feedback to be sent on the secondary links.

[0156] As another example, different links can have similar reliability and / or channel quality (e.g., links can operate on the same carrier frequency). Therefore, different links can be equally suitable for carrying feedback. Thus, the device can dynamically select one or more links to carry feedback. For example, if the first link carrying feedback is blocked, the feedback can be temporarily switched to a second link. Therefore, the device can assign different links to carry feedback at different times. As another example, the device can assign one link to some feedback and another link to another feedback.

[0157] In view of the foregoing, this application relates in some respects to multi-link, multi-beam feedback for devices communicating via all links in a set of links. For example, a UE may communicate via multiple links, each associated with a corresponding beam. The UE may communicate with a first TRP via a first link (first beam), with at least one other TRP via at least one second link (at least one second beam), and so on. In this case, the UE may transmit feedback independently on each of these links, or the UE may transmit feedback on one or more links in a set as described above. In the latter case, the UE may generate feedback based on information received on one or more links in the set.

[0158] Furthermore, this application involves multi-link, multi-beam channel sensing for devices that communicate only on a subset of links within a set of links. For example, a TRP may communicate with a UE via a first link (first beam), and the UE may communicate with at least one other TRP via at least one other link (at least one second beam). In this case, the TRP communicates via a subset of links. In some scenarios, the device (e.g., the TRP) may process feedback on a subset of links independently of feedback on other links. In other scenarios, the device may coordinate with at least one other device (e.g., the UE, another TRP, etc.) to manage feedback on one or more links as a group (as described above). To this end, the device may communicate with another device via another link (e.g., a TRP-to-TRP channel) to obtain HARQ feedback from the other device for another link, or to send HARQ feedback for a link to another device.

[0159] In some cases, this application relates to support for signal transmission of multi-link feedback. Here, a device can communicate with another device (or other devices) to determine how to send feedback. For example, the device can indicate which links will carry what type of feedback, the time a particular link will carry feedback, and so on. As mentioned above, this signal transmission can be, for example, from TRP to UE, from UE to TRP, from TRP to another TRP, from UE to another UE, or between other types of devices. Multi-link subframe allocation instance

[0160] In some cases, this case involves subframe allocation in multi-link scenarios. Different subframe structures can be used in different situations.

[0161] Based on some aspects of this case, if the current communication is not full-duplex, it may be desirable to ensure that the time-division duplex (TDD) structure used for each subframe is compatible across all N links. By using a compatible TDD structure on different links, receiver saturation can be avoided. In this case, the transmission direction of one link (e.g., uplink or downlink) is specified to be the same as or a subset of the directions of the other N-1 links. For example, if one link is in the downlink direction during a particular symbol, then another link should also be in the downlink direction during the same symbol. Such a configuration can be used for communication of, for example, more critical information (e.g., control information, high QoS data, etc.).

[0162] Depending on other aspects of this case, a more flexible allocation of uplink and downlink for each link can be allowed. For example, uplink / downlink coordination may not be required between links. In this case, each link can selectively use different time-division duplex (TDD) / FDD subframe structures. For example, if one link is a downlink during a particular symbol period, then another link can be an uplink during that symbol period. For example, this method can be used if the RF isolation between subarrays is sufficiently high (e.g., > 30 dB), because receiver saturation is unlikely in these cases. Therefore, some interference between links may be acceptable in flexible uplink and downlink implementations. Thus, full-duplex operation may be possible when the RF isolation between links is relatively high (e.g., due to the corresponding antenna subarrays pointing in different directions). Full-duplex operation can also be used, for example, for communication of less critical information with lower reliability requirements (e.g., best-effort service data, etc.).

[0163] Depending on other aspects of this case, a hybrid of full-duplex and non-full-duplex operation can be used. Here, a subframe or portions of multiple subframes can share the same direction for different links. For example, all links can share the same downlink portion for downlink control signal transmission purposes and / or all links can share the same uplink portion for uplink control signal transmission purposes.

[0164] Furthermore, a link can provide a protected portion of another link by reducing transmission power or eliminating transmission, or a link can provide a protected portion of another link by reducing transmission power on a subset of frequency resources or eliminating transmission on a subset of frequency resources. For example, for a 100 MHz bandwidth, a link can reduce transmission power or eliminate transmission in the middle portion of the system bandwidth, such as 20 MHz within the 100 MHz. This frequency resource does not necessarily have to be contiguous in the frequency domain; for example, 20 MHz may be distributed across 100 MHz rather than being contiguous in the frequency domain.

[0165] The link can coordinate protected resources, and the UE or TRP can take into account such coordinated resources for receiver processing, for example, by understanding the coordination information to reduce receiver complexity.

[0166] In some cases, this application relates to signal delivery subframes or UL / DL configurations to be used on one or more links. For example, a device may communicate with another device (or other devices) to determine the type of subframe or UL / DL configuration to be used on a particular link (or links) and the duration for which the subframe or UL / DL configuration will be used on the link (or links). This signal delivery may be, for example, from TRP to UE, from UE to TRP, from TRP to another TRP, from UE to another UE, or between other types of devices.

[0167] In view of the above, this application relates in some forms to multi-link, multi-beam channel sensing for devices communicating via all links in a set of links. For example, a UE can communicate via multiple links, each associated with a corresponding beam. The UE can communicate with a first TRP via a first link (first beam), with at least one other TRP via at least one second link (at least one second beam), and so on. In this case, the UE can use or forward information about each link so that a scheduler (e.g., at the UE or elsewhere) can determine the appropriate subframe allocation.

[0168] Furthermore, this application involves multi-link, multi-beam channel sensing for devices that communicate only on a subset of links in a set of links. For example, a TRP can communicate with a UE via a first link (first beam), and the UE can communicate with at least one other TRP via at least one other link (at least one second beam). In this case, the TRP communicates via a subset of links. In some cases, a device (e.g., a TRP) can send or receive link information for a link on another link. For this purpose, TRPs can share link information with each other. For example, a first TRP can send information about a link (e.g., a link that is active at the first TRP) to a second TRP via a backhaul, a TRP-to-TRP link, or some other type of link. In this way, a scheduler (e.g., at the TRP or elsewhere) can determine the appropriate subframe allocation. Multi-link detection example

[0169] In some cases, resource allocation (e.g., subframes) in multi-link scenarios can be based on dynamic probing. This probing can be uplink probing, downlink probing, or probing on some other type of link.

[0170] For example, uplink probing can be used to enable the TRP to configure its downlink beamforming (e.g., based on uplink probing information received from the UE). For example, the UE can send a sounding reference signal (SRS) to the TRP. In a time-division duplex (TDD) environment, reciprocity can be used to estimate the channel in another direction (e.g., DL) based on channel estimation in one direction (e.g., UL).

[0171] For example, downlink probing can be used to enable the UE to configure its uplink beamforming (e.g., based on downlink probing information received from the TRP). For example, the TRP can send SRS to the UE. Here, reciprocity can be used to estimate the channel in the UL based on the channel estimation of the DL.

[0172] In one scenario, this case involves supporting multiple links, each with its own independent probe. Therefore, in this case, a device (e.g., a UE) communicating via multiple links performs a probe operation on one link independently of the probe operations on any other link. For example, the UE can send a corresponding SRS for each link.

[0173] In another case, this application involves supporting probes across multiple links. Here, probes can be time-division multiplexed (TDM) within a subframe (e.g., depending on the beamforming direction across the links). For example, if there is high interference between beams (e.g., due to beam orientation), uplink probes can be sent sequentially (e.g., sending SRS on one link, then sending SRS on another link, etc.).

[0174] In view of the foregoing, this application relates in some respects to multi-link multi-beam detection for devices communicating via all links in a set of links. For example, a UE may communicate via multiple links, each associated with a corresponding beam. The UE may communicate with a first TRP via a first link (first beam), with at least one other TRP via at least one second link (at least one second beam), and so on. In this case, the UE may perform detection operations independently on each of these links, or the UE may perform detection operations as a group as described above (e.g., continuously transmitting or receiving detection signals on different links in the group).

[0175] Furthermore, this application involves, in some cases, multi-link, multi-beam channel probing of devices that communicate only on a subset of links within a set of links. For example, a TRP may communicate with a UE via a first link (first beam), and the UE may communicate with at least one other TRP via at least one other link (at least one second beam). In this case, the TRP communicates via a subset of links. In some scenarios, a device (e.g., a TRP) may perform probing operations on a subset of links independently of probing operations on other links. In other scenarios, a device may coordinate with at least one other device (e.g., a UE, another TRP, etc.) to perform probing operations on one or more links as a set (as described above). To this end, the device may communicate with another device via another link (e.g., a TRP-to-TRP channel) to obtain probing information for another link from the other device, or to send probing information for a link to the other device.

[0176] In some cases, this application relates to signaling support for multi-link probing. Here, one device can communicate with another device (or other devices) to determine how to perform probing. For example, the device can indicate which links are grouped together for probing, how each link or group of links is probing (e.g., concurrently, sequentially, etc.), the direction of probing (e.g., uplink or downlink), and so on. This signaling can be, for example, from TRP to UE, from UE to TRP, from TRP to another TRP, from UE to another UE, or between other types of devices.

[0177] In some implementations, the TRP can schedule uplink probes. When scheduling SRS transmissions, the TRP can provide signaling to indicate the direction of transmission for each probe signal. Multi-link power control examples

[0178] This case involves multi-link power control in some aspects. Power control can be implemented using different schemes.

[0179] In one scenario, this application involves supporting multiple links, each with its own independent power control. Therefore, in this case, a device (e.g., a UE) communicating via multiple links performs power control on one link independently of the power control operations of any other link. For example, the TRP can send power control information to the UE via a specific link (e.g., via a control channel) to control the transmission power of that link. Thus, the UE can control the power on that specific link based on power control commands received on that link.

[0180] In another instance, this case involves supporting power control across multiple links (e.g., joint power control). For example, a single power control command can control the power on a group of links (e.g., sharing the same spectrum). As another example, the UE's power control can be based on power control commands received on multiple links. As yet another example, the transmission power on multiple links can be considered to satisfy power control constraints.

[0181] In either case, total power constraints (e.g., similar to carrier aggregation) can be used. For example, TRP can specify a total maximum power limit across multiple links, regardless of whether the links are independent or packet-based.

[0182] In view of the foregoing, this application relates in some respects to multi-link, multi-beam power control for devices communicating via all links in a set of links. For example, a UE may communicate via multiple links, each associated with a corresponding beam. The UE may communicate with a first TRP via a first link (first beam), with at least one other TRP via at least one second link (at least one second beam), and so on. In this case, the UE may perform power control operations independently on each of these links, or the UE may perform power control operations as a group, as described above. For example, the UE may control the power on one or more links based on power control commands received on one or more of the links.

[0183] Furthermore, this application involves, in some cases, multi-link, multi-beam channel power control for devices that communicate only on a subset of links within a set of links. For example, a TRP may communicate with a UE via a first link (first beam), and the UE may communicate with at least one other TRP via at least one other link (at least one second beam). In this case, the TRP communicates via a subset of links. In some scenarios, the device (e.g., the TRP) may perform power control operations on a subset of links independently of power control operations on other links. In other scenarios, the device may coordinate with at least one other device (e.g., the UE, another TRP, etc.) to perform power control operations on one or more links as a group (as described above). To this end, the device may communicate with another device via another link (e.g., a TRP-to-TRP channel) to obtain power control information (e.g., power control commands) for another link from the other device or to send power control information for a link to the other device.

[0184] In some cases, this application relates to signaling support for multi-link power control. Here, one device can communicate with another device (or other devices) to determine how power control should be performed. For example, the device can indicate which links are grouped together for power control, how power control should be performed on each link or group of links (e.g., using power control commands on all links or subsets of links, etc.), and so on. This signaling can be, for example, from TRP to UE, from UE to TRP, from TRP to another TRP, from UE to another UE, or between other types of devices. Multi-link channel status feedback example

[0185] Different schemes can be used to implement channel state information (CSI) feedback from the UE in multi-link scenarios (e.g., precoded matrix indicator, PMI). For CSI feedback, the TRP sends a CSI reference signal (CSI-RS) detected by the UE. The UE generates CSI feedback (e.g., CQI, PMI, etc.) based on the CSI-RS and sends the CSI feedback to the TRP.

[0186] In one scenario, this application relates to supporting multiple links, each with its own independent channel state feedback. Therefore, in this case, a device (e.g., a UE) communicating via multiple links performs feedback operations for one link independently of the feedback operations of any other link. For example, each link may have its own channel state information (CSI) feedback based on a CSI reference signal (CSI-RS) transmitted by the TRP on that link.

[0187] In another scenario, this case involves supporting channel status feedback across multiple links. For example, CSI feedback for a given link can be based on CSI-RS from multiple links. Therefore, the UE can send a joint CSI report. This joint report can be sent on one or more links. When sending feedback, the transmitter can provide information about how the CSI-RS from multiple links are used.

[0188] Feedback across a set of links can be dynamically invoked based on one or more trigger conditions. For example, joint power control can be invoked when the used antenna subarrays are relatively close to each other (e.g., less than a threshold separation distance). As another example, joint power control can be invoked based on channel conditions.

[0189] The CSI calculated for different links can differ (e.g., due to different coverage directions of the antenna subarrays and / or due to different positions of the antenna subarrays on the device). As an example, different antenna subarrays may see different environments (e.g., due to different channel conditions in different directions). Therefore, different CSIs can be generated for different links (e.g., one link may be worse than another). In this case, the device can choose to send a joint CSI report so that it can share the links for subsequent communication.

[0190] When the subarrays used are close to each other, the device may be able to achieve better performance (e.g., higher SNR) by using two links. Therefore, in this case, the device can choose to send a joint CSI report, so the device can share the link for subsequent communication. In addition, by sending a joint report, the feedback management burden may be lower.

[0191] In view of the foregoing, this application relates in some respects to multi-link, multi-beam channel state feedback for devices communicating via all links in a set of links. For example, a UE may communicate via multiple links, each associated with a corresponding beam. The UE may communicate with a first TRP via a first link (first beam), with at least one other TRP via at least one second link (at least one second beam), and so on. In this case, the UE may perform a feedback operation independently for each of these links, or, as mentioned above, the UE may perform a feedback operation as a group. For example, the UE may use channel state information from one or more links to generate feedback transmitted on one or more links.

[0192] Furthermore, this application involves, in some cases, multi-link, multi-beam channel state feedback for devices that communicate only on a subset of links within a set of links. For example, a TRP may communicate with a UE via a first link (first beam), and a UE may communicate with at least one other TRP via at least one other link (at least one second beam). In this case, the TRP communicates via a subset of links. In some scenarios, the device (e.g., the TRP) may perform feedback operations on a subset of links independently of feedback operations on other links. In other scenarios, the device may coordinate with at least one other device (e.g., the UE, another TRP, etc.) to perform feedback operations on one or more links as a set (as described above). To this end, the device may communicate with another device via another link (e.g., a TRP-to-TRP channel) to obtain feedback information from the other device (e.g., joint CSI feedback sent to the other device) or to send feedback information to the other device. Furthermore, the TRP may coordinate to enable the UE to jointly use the links for communication.

[0193] In some cases, this application relates to signaling support for multi-link channel status feedback. Here, one device can communicate with another device (or other devices) to determine how channel status feedback should be performed. For example, the device can instruct which links to combine for channel status feedback, how channel status feedback should be performed for each link or group of links (e.g., individual reporting or joint reporting). This signaling can be, for example, from TRP to UE, from UE to TRP, from TRP to another TRP, from UE to another UE, or between other types of devices. Multi-link beam conversion example

[0194] In some cases, this case involves transmitting beam information in multi-link scenarios. In some situations, beam information is used for beam switching and / or beam management.

[0195] In beam switching / link management, a device can tell another device that communication can be switched from one link to another, or it can request such a switch (e.g., because link quality has degraded or because a better link has been found). Different schemes can be used to implement beam switching / link management for multi-link scenarios.

[0196] In one scenario, this case involves supporting multiple links, where each link performs its own independent beam switching (per-link switching). Therefore, in this case, a device (e.g., a UE) communicating via multiple links performs beam switching for one link independently of beam switching for any other link. For example, the UE can send a message on a specific link to notify the TRP that the UE is switching to another beam or direction (e.g., because link quality has degraded or because a better link has been found).

[0197] In another instance, this case involves beam switching across multiple links (cross-link switching). Here, one link (or a group of links) can instruct at least one other link to switch beams via a control channel. For example, the UE can send a message via a control channel for one link to notify the TRP that beam switching is being performed for multiple links. As another example, if the device's active link is lost (e.g., blocked), another link can carry beam switching information (e.g., beam identifier) ​​to enable the device to switch to that link. These messages can also indicate the timing of the switch, allowing the UE and TRP to synchronize their switching operations. Furthermore, confirmation of receipt of the beam switching command in one or more links can be sent via another link or multiple links.

[0198] Cross-link switching can potentially reduce latency associated with beam switching. For example, the handover associated with switching (e.g., switching control and recovery procedures) can be carried on another link, thereby reducing switching time on one or more links undergoing switching. Furthermore, the TRP can inform the UE to switch links in the next subframe.

[0199] In view of the foregoing, this application relates in some respects to multi-link multi-beam beam switching for devices that communicate via all links in a set of links. For example, as mentioned above, a UE may communicate via multiple links, each of which is associated with a corresponding beam. In this case, the UE may perform beam switching on each of these links independently, or as mentioned above, the UE may perform beam switching across multiple links (cross-link switching).

[0200] Furthermore, this application involves, in some cases, multi-link multi-beam channel state feedback for devices communicating only on a subset of links within a set of links. For example, a TRP may communicate with a UE via a first link (first beam), and a UE may communicate with at least one other TRP via at least one other link (at least one second beam), as described above. In some scenarios, a device (e.g., a TRP) may perform beam switching on a subset of links independently of beam switching on other links. In other scenarios, a device may coordinate with at least one other device (e.g., a UE, another TRP, etc.) to perform beam switching across one or more links (cross-link switching). To do this, a device may communicate with another device via another link (e.g., a TRP-to-TRP channel) to obtain beam switching information (e.g., beam identifier) ​​from the other device, or to send beam switching information to the other device.

[0201] This application relates in some aspects to signal transmission support for multi-link channel beamforming. Here, one device can communicate with another device (or other devices) to determine how beamforming should be performed. For example, the device can indicate whether cross-link beamforming will be used, or whether beamforming should be performed independently for each link. This signal transmission can, for example, be from TRP to UE, from UE to TRP, from TRP to another TRP, from UE to another UE, or between other types of devices. Multi-link beam recovery example

[0202] In some cases, beam information transmitted in multi-link scenarios includes beam recovery information. Once a beam is lost (e.g., blocked), the device can initiate a beam recovery operation (e.g., a RACH procedure or a scheduling request (SR) procedure) to resynchronize with another device. However, due to beam loss, the device cannot use the control channel to transmit beam switching to another device. Beam recovery in multi-link scenarios can be implemented using different schemes.

[0203] In one scenario, this case involves supporting multiple links, where each link performs its own independent beam recovery (per-link recovery). In this case, a device (e.g., a UE) communicating via multiple links performs beam recovery for one link independently of beam recovery for any other link. For example, the UE could send a RACH message to the TRP (on the random access channel) to notify the TRP that the link has been lost. However, in practice, the RACH procedure can have a relatively high administrative burden.

[0204] In another instance, this case relates to beam recovery across multiple links (cross-link recovery). Here, one link (or group of links) can be used to recover at least one other link. For example, the UE can send a RACH or SR message to the TRP via a good link (e.g., via the control channel of that link) to notify the TRP that the UE has lost another link (or other links). As another example, the TRP can send a similar message to the UE. Such messages may include various types of beamforming-related information or be sent in combination with various types of beamforming-related information. For example, beamforming-related information may include an indication to send new beam pairing information, an indication of preferred beam, a beam identifier, a specified time for beam switching, confirmation, or other information to facilitate beam recovery.

[0205] In view of the foregoing, this application relates in some respects to multi-link multi-beam beam recovery for devices communicating via all links in a set of links. For example, as mentioned above, a UE may communicate via multiple links, each associated with a corresponding beam. In this case, the UE may perform beam recovery on each of these links independently, or as mentioned above, the UE may perform beam recovery across multiple links (cross-link recovery).

[0206] Furthermore, this case involves, in some cases, multi-link multi-beam channel state feedback for devices that communicate only on a subset of links within a set of links. For example, a TRP may communicate with a UE via a first link (first beam), and a UE may communicate with at least one other TRP via at least one other link (at least one second beam), as described above. In some scenarios, a device (e.g., a TRP) may perform beam recovery on a subset of links, independent of beam recovery on other links. In other scenarios, a device may coordinate with at least one other device (e.g., a UE, another TRP, etc.) to perform beam recovery across one or more links (cross-link recovery). To do this, the device may communicate with another device via another link (e.g., a TRP-to-TRP channel) to obtain beam recovery information (e.g., beam identifier) ​​from the other device, or to send beam recovery information to the other device.

[0207] In some cases, this application relates to signaling support for beam recovery across multiple links. Here, one device can communicate with another device (or other devices) to determine how beam recovery should be performed. For example, the device can indicate whether cross-link recovery will be used, or whether beam recovery should be performed independently for each link. This signaling can occur, for example, from TRP to UE, from UE to TRP, from TRP to another TRP, from UE to another UE, or between other types of devices. Examples of multi-link RACH programs

[0208] In some cases, beamforming information transmitted for multi-link scenarios includes Random Access Channel (RACH) information. Different schemes can be used to implement RACH procedures in multi-link scenarios.

[0209] In one scenario, this case involves supporting multiple links, where each link executes its own independent RACH procedure. In this case, a device (e.g., a UE) communicating via multiple links executes a RACH procedure for one link independently of the RACH procedure for any other link. For example, the UE could send a RACH message to the TRP (on the random access channel) to notify the TRP that the link has been lost. However, in practice, the RACH procedure can have a relatively high administrative burden.

[0210] If a single link is used, the Random Access Path (RACH) procedure can be used to restore the beam. However, when multiple links are used, the likelihood of using RACH decreases due to the possibility of cross-link recovery. When multiple (e.g., N) links fail, control signals can be sent on another link to simultaneously signal the failure events of multiple links. For example, the UE can send a RACH message to the TRP to indicate that multiple links have failed.

[0211] Therefore, in another case, this case involves a RACH procedure across multiple links. Here, one link (or group of links) can be used to send control signals for at least one other link.

[0212] In view of the foregoing, this case relates in some respects to a multi-link, multi-beam RACH procedure for a device communicating via all links in a set of links. For example, as mentioned above, the UE may communicate via multiple links, each associated with a corresponding beam. In this case, the UE may independently perform the RACH procedure for each of these links, or as mentioned above, the UE may signal a fault event (cross-link recovery) across multiple links.

[0213] Furthermore, this application involves, in some cases, a multi-link, multi-beam RACH procedure for a device that communicates only on a subset of links in a set of links. For example, a TRP may communicate with a UE via a first link (first beam), and the UE may communicate with at least one other TRP via at least one other link (at least one second beam), as described above. In some scenarios, the device (e.g., a TRP) may execute the RACH procedure on a subset of links, independent of the RACH procedure on other links. In other scenarios, the device may coordinate with at least one other device (e.g., a UE, another TRP, etc.) to signal fault events on one or more links. To do this, the device may communicate with another device via another link (e.g., a TRP-to-TRP channel) to obtain fault event information from or to other devices.

[0214] In some cases, this application relates to signaling support for multi-link RACH procedures. Here, one device can communicate with another device (or other devices) to determine how to perform the RACH procedure. For example, the device can indicate whether to perform the RACH procedure independently for each link, or to use cross-link signaling for failure events. This signaling can be, for example, from TRP to UE, from UE to TRP, from TRP to another TRP, from UE to another UE, or between other types of devices. Examples of multi-link measurement and event triggering

[0215] This case involves link measurements (e.g., RSRP / RSSI measurements) for multi-link scenarios. Link measurements can be used for events such as handover or other event triggering.

[0216] In one scenario, this application relates to supporting multiple links, where each link performs its own measurement and event triggering operations (per-link measurement). In this case, a device (e.g., a UE) communicating via multiple links performs measurement and event triggering operations for one link independently of measurement and event triggering operations for any other link. Here, event triggering (e.g., switching to a different TRP or link) is based on per-link measurement. Therefore, a given device can use multiple triggers, one for each link. Furthermore, multiple beam measurements can be performed for a given link, and these measurements can be aggregated (e.g., for comparison with a trigger threshold).

[0217] In another instance, this case involves measurement and event triggering operations across multiple links. Here, a link (or group of links) can be used for measurement and event triggering against at least one other link. Event triggering can be based on aggregated measurements from multiple links. For example, an event can be triggered based on a trigger threshold compared to the maximum value of measurements from all links in the group. As mentioned earlier, multiple beam measurements can be performed for a given link, and these measurements can be aggregated.

[0218] In view of the foregoing, this application relates in some respects to multi-link, multi-beam measurement and event-triggered operations for devices communicating via all links in a set of links. For example, as mentioned above, a UE may communicate via multiple links, each associated with a corresponding beam. In this case, the UE may perform measurement and event-triggered operations independently for each of these links, or as mentioned above, the UE may perform measurement and event-triggered operations across multiple links.

[0219] Furthermore, this case involves multi-link, multi-beam measurement and event-triggered operations in some cases involving devices that communicate only on a subset of links within a set of links. For example, a TRP may communicate with a UE via a first link (first beam), and a UE may communicate with at least one other TRP via at least one other link (at least one second beam), as described above. In some scenarios, a device (e.g., a TRP) may perform measurement and event-triggered operations on a subset of links independently of measurement and event-triggered operations on other links. In other scenarios, a device may coordinate with at least one other device (e.g., a UE, another TRP, etc.) to perform measurement and event-triggered operations across one or more links. To this end, the device may communicate with another device via another link (e.g., a TRP-to-TRP channel) to obtain measurement information from or send measurement information to another device.

[0220] This application relates in some aspects to signaling support for multi-link channel measurement and event-triggered operations. Here, one device can communicate with another device (or other devices) to determine how to perform measurement and event-triggered operations. For example, the device can indicate whether to perform measurement and event-triggered operations independently for each link, or whether to use cross-link operation. This signaling can be, for example, from TRP to UE, from UE to TRP, from TRP to another TRP, from UE to another UE, or between other types of devices. First instance device

[0221] Figure 14 illustrates a block diagram of an example hardware implementation of device 1400 configured to communicate according to one or more modes of this invention. Device 1400 may be implemented in a UE, TRP, gNB, base station (BS), or some other type of device supporting wireless communication. In various implementations, device 1400 may be implemented in an access terminal, access point, or some other type of device. In various implementations, device 1400 may be implemented in a server, network entity, mobile phone, smartphone, tablet computer, portable computer, server, personal computer, sensor, alarm, vehicle, machine, entertainment device, medical device, or any other electronic device with circuitry.

[0222] Device 1400 includes a communication interface (e.g., at least one transceiver) 1402, a storage medium 1404, a user interface 1406, a memory device (e.g., memory circuitry) 1408, and processing circuitry 1410 (e.g., at least one processor). In various implementations, the user interface 1406 may include one or more of the following: a keyboard, a display, a speaker, a microphone, a touchscreen display, and some other circuitry for receiving input from or sending output to a user.

[0223] These components can be coupled to and / or placed in electrical communication with each other via signal transmission buses or other suitable components (which are generally represented by the connecting lines in FIG. 14). Signal transmission buses can include any number of interconnecting buses and bridges, depending on the specific application and overall design constraints of processing circuitry 1410. Signal transmission buses link various circuits together such that each of communication interface 1402, storage medium 1404, user interface 1406, and memory device 1408 is coupled to and / or in electrical communication with processing circuitry 1410. Signal transmission buses can also connect various other circuits (not shown), such as timing sources, peripheral devices, voltage regulators, and power management circuitry, which are well known in the art to which this invention pertains and will therefore not be described further.

[0224] Communication interface 1402 provides a unit for communicating with other devices via a transmission medium. In some implementations, communication interface 1402 may be adapted to facilitate wireless communication of device 1400. For example, communication interface 1402 may include circuitry and / or programming adapted to facilitate bidirectional communication of information with respect to one or more communication devices in a network. Thus, in some implementations, communication interface 1402 may be coupled to one or more antennas 1412 for wireless communication within a wireless communication system. In some implementations, communication interface 1402 may be configured for wired communication. For example, communication interface 1402 may be a bus interface, a transmit / receive interface, or some other type of signal interface including drivers, buffers, or other circuitry for outputting and / or receiving signals (e.g., outputting signals from or receiving signals into an integrated circuit). Communication interface 1402 may be configured with one or more independent receivers and / or transmitters and one or more transceivers. In the illustrated example, communication interface 1402 includes transmitter 1414 and receiver 1416. Communication interface 1402 is used as an example of a unit for receiving and / or a unit for transmitting.

[0225] Memory device 1408 can represent one or more memory devices. As shown, memory device 1408 can maintain link information 1418, as well as other information used by device 1400. In some implementations, memory device 1408 and storage medium 1404 are implemented as a common memory component. Memory device 1408 can also be used to store data manipulated by processing circuitry 1410 or another component of device 1400.

[0226] Storage medium 1404 may represent one or more computer-readable, machine-readable, and / or processor-readable devices for storing program design, such as processor-executable code or instructions (e.g., software, firmware), electronic data, databases, or other digital information. Storage medium 1404 may also be used to store data manipulated by processing circuitry 1410 when the program design is executed. Storage medium 1404 may be any available media accessible by a general-purpose or special-purpose processor, including portable or fixed storage devices, optical storage devices, and various other media capable of storing, containing, or carrying program design.

[0227] By way of example and not limitation, storage medium 1404 may include magnetic storage devices (e.g., hard disks, floppy disks, magnetic stripes), optical discs (e.g., compact discs (CDs) or digital versatile discs (DVDs)), smart cards, flash memory devices (e.g., cards, sticks, or key floppy disk drives), random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), programmable ROM (PROM), erasable PROM (EPROM), electronically erasable PROM (EEPROM), temporary registers, removable disks, and any other suitable media for storing software and / or instructions accessible and readable by a computer. Storage medium 1404 may be embodied in an article of manufacture (e.g., a computer program product). As an example, a computer program product may include computer-readable media in packaging material. In view of the foregoing, in some implementations, storage medium 1404 may be a non-transitory (e.g., tangible) storage medium.

[0228] Storage medium 1404 can be coupled to processing circuitry 1410, allowing processing circuitry 1410 to read information from and write information to storage medium 1404. That is, storage medium 1404 can be coupled to processing circuitry 1410 such that storage medium 1404 is at least accessible by processing circuitry 1410, including instances where at least one storage medium is integrated with processing circuitry 1410 and / or instances where at least one storage medium is separate from processing circuitry 1410 (e.g., resident in device 1400, external to device 1400, distributed across multiple entities, etc.).

[0229] The program stored in storage medium 1404, when executed by processing circuitry 1410, causes processing circuitry 1410 to perform one or more of the various functions and / or processing operations described herein. For example, storage medium 1404 may include operations configured to adjust the operation at one or more hardware blocks of processing circuitry 1410, and wireless communication using communication interface 1402 and their respective communication protocols. In some cases, storage medium 1404 may include computer-readable medium storing computer-executable code, including code that performs the functions described herein.

[0230] Processing circuitry 1410 is generally adapted to process, including, the execution of such programmable code stored on storage medium 1404. As used herein, the terms "code" or "programmable code" should be broadly interpreted to include, but not limited to, instructions, instruction sets, data, code, code snippets, program code, program, subprogram, software module, application, software application, software suite, common, subcommon, object, executable file, executable thread, program, function, etc., whether referred to as software, firmware, middleware, microcode, hardware description language, or others.

[0231] Processing circuitry 1410 is arranged to acquire, process, and / or transmit data, control data access and storage, issue commands, and control other desired operations. Processing circuitry 1410 may include circuitry configured to implement a desired programmable design provided by suitable media in at least one instance. For example, processing circuitry 1410 may be implemented as one or more processors, one or more controllers, and / or other structures configured to execute executable programs. Examples of processing circuitry 1410 may include general-purpose processors, digital signal processors (DSPs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) or other programmable logic components, individual gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof designed to perform the functions described herein. General-purpose processors may include microprocessors and any known processors, controllers, microcontrollers, or state machines. Processing circuitry 1410 may also be implemented as a combination of computing components, such as a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, multiple microprocessors, one or more microprocessors combined with a DSP core, an ASIC and a microprocessor, or any other configuration of varying numbers. These examples of processing circuitry 1410 are for illustrative purposes, and other suitable configurations are also contemplated within the scope of this case.

[0232] Depending on one or more of the embodiments described herein, processing circuitry 1410 may be adapted to perform any or all of the features, programs, functions, operations, and / or routines of any or all of the devices described herein. For example, processing circuitry 1410 may be configured to perform any of the steps, functions, and / or programs described with respect to Figures 1-13 and 15-27. As used herein, the term "adapted" with respect to processing circuitry 1410 may mean that processing circuitry 1410 is configured, used, implemented, and / or programmed in accordance with one or more of the various features described herein to perform a particular program, function, operation, and / or routine.

[0233] Processing circuitry 1410 may be a dedicated processor, such as an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), which serves as a unit (e.g., structure) for performing any of the operations described in conjunction with Figures 1-13 and 15-27. Processing circuitry 1410 serves as an example of a unit for transmitting and / or a unit for receiving. In various implementations, processing circuitry 1410 may at least partially provide and / or incorporate the functions described in any of Figures 7-13 above.

[0234] According to at least one embodiment of the apparatus 1400, the processing circuit 1410 may include one or more of the following: a circuit / module 1420 for obtaining, a circuit / module 1422 for deciding, a circuit / module 1424 for communicating, a circuit / module 1426 for outputting, a circuit / module 1428 for processing, a circuit / module 1430 for transmitting, a circuit / module 1432 for allocating, a circuit / module 1434 for coordinating, a circuit / module 1436 for generating, or a circuit / module 1438 for aggregating. In various implementations, the circuit / module 1420 for acquisition, the circuit / module 1422 for decision-making, the circuit / module 1424 for communication, the circuit / module 1426 for output, the circuit / module 1428 for processing, the circuit / module 1430 for transmission, the circuit / module 1432 for allocation, the circuit / module 1434 for coordination, the circuit / module 1436 for generation, or the circuit / module 1438 for aggregation may at least partially provide and / or incorporate the functions described above in any of Figures 7-13.

[0235] As previously mentioned, the program stored in storage medium 1404, when executed by processing circuitry 1410, causes processing circuitry 1410 to perform one or more of the various functions and / or processing operations described herein. For example, in various implementations, the program may be designed to cause processing circuitry 1410 to perform the various functions, steps, and / or processes described herein with reference to Figures 1-13 and 15-27. As shown in Figure 14, storage medium 1404 may include one or more of the following: code 1440 for obtaining, code 1442 for determining, code 1444 for communicating, code 1446 for outputting, code 1448 for processing, code 1450 for sending, code 1452 for allocating, code 1454 for coordinating, code 1456 for generating, or code 1458 for aggregating. In various implementations, the code 1440 for obtaining, the code 1442 for deciding, the code 1444 for communicating, the code 1446 for outputting, the code 1448 for processing, the code 1450 for sending, the code 1452 for allocating, the code 1454 for coordinating, the code 1456 for generating, or the code 1458 for aggregating can be executed or otherwise used to provide the functions described herein for the circuit / module 1420 for obtaining, the circuit / module 1422 for deciding, the circuit / module 1424 for communicating, the circuit / module for outputting 1426, the circuit / module 1428 for processing, the circuit / module 1430 for sending, the circuit / module 1432 for allocating, the circuit / module 1434 for coordinating, the circuit / module 1436 for generating, or the circuit / module 1438 for aggregating.

[0236] The acquisition circuit / module 1420 may include circuitry and / or programming adapted to perform several functions related to, for example, acquiring information (e.g., acquisition code 1440 stored on storage medium 1404). In some scenarios, the acquisition circuit / module 1420 may receive information (e.g., from memory device 1408, communication interface 1402, or some other component of device 1400) and process (e.g., decode) that information. In some scenarios (e.g., if the acquisition circuit / module 1420 is or includes an RF receiver), the acquisition circuit / module 1420 may receive information directly from the device that sent the information. In any case, the acquisition circuit / module 1420 may output the received information to another component of device 1400 (e.g., decision circuit / module 1422, generation circuit / module 1436, memory device 1408, or some other component).

[0237] The circuit / module 1420 for acquisition (e.g., the unit for acquisition) can take various forms. In some embodiments, the circuit / module 1420 for acquisition can correspond to, for example, the processing circuitry discussed herein. In some embodiments, the circuit / module 1422 for communication can correspond to, for example, an interface (e.g., a bus interface, a receiver interface, or some other type of signal interface), a communication device, a transceiver, a receiver, or some other similar component as discussed herein. In some implementations, the communication interface 1402 includes the circuit / module 1420 for acquisition and / or the code 1440 for acquisition. In some implementations, the circuit / module 1420 for acquisition and / or the code 1440 for acquisition are configured to control the communication interface 1402 (e.g., a transceiver or a receiver) to transmit information.

[0238] The circuit / module 1422 for making a decision may include circuitry and / or programming adapted to perform several functions related to, for example, deciding whether to perform an operation (e.g., code 1442 for making a decision stored on storage medium 1404). In some cases, the circuit / module 1422 for making a decision (e.g., a unit for making a decision) may correspond to, for example, processing circuitry.

[0239] In some scenarios, the circuit / module 1422 used for decision-making can obtain information on which the decision is based. For example, the circuit / module 1422 used for decision-making can obtain sensing information, indications, RF isolation information, indications of information carried by the link, distance between antenna subarrays, or channel condition information (e.g., from communication interface 1402, memory device 1408, or some other component of device 1400). Subsequently, the circuit / module 1422 used for decision-making can make a decision based on the obtained information. For example, the circuit / module 1422 used for decision-making can decide whether to transmit, decide whether to communicate, decide to interact, decide the type of information, decide whether the power control signal controls the transmission power, or decide whether the feedback signal is based on channel status information. The circuit / module 1422 used for decision-making can then output an indication of the decision (e.g., to the circuit / module 1424 used for communication, the circuit / module 1432 used for allocation, the memory device 1408, or some other component).

[0240] The circuit / module 1424 for communication may include circuitry and / or programming adapted to perform functions related to, for example, communication information (e.g., communication code 1444 stored on storage medium 1404). In some implementations, communication involves receiving information. In some implementations, communication involves sending (e.g., transmitting) information.

[0241] In some implementations of communication involving the receipt of information, the circuit / module 1424 for communication receives information (e.g., from the communication interface 1402, receiver 1416, memory device 1408, some other component of device 1400, or some other device), processes (e.g., decodes) the information, and outputs the information to another component of device 1400 (e.g., the circuit / module 1420 for decoding, memory device 1408, or some other component). In some scenarios (e.g., if the circuit / module 1424 for communication includes a receiver), communication involves the circuit / module 1424 for communication receiving information directly from the device that transmits the information (e.g., via radio frequency signal transmission or other types of signal transmission suitable for applicable communication media).

[0242] In some implementations of communication involving the transmission of information, the circuitry / module 1424 for communication receives information (e.g., from memory device 1408 or some other component of device 1400), processes (e.g., encodes for transmission) the information, and outputs the processed information. In some scenarios, communication includes sending information to another component of device 1400 (e.g., transmitter 1414, communication interface 1402, or some other component), which in turn sends the information to another device. In some scenarios (e.g., if the circuitry / module 1424 for communication includes a transmitter), communication involves the circuitry / module 1424 for communication directly transmitting information to another device (e.g., the final destination) via radio frequency signal transmission or some other signal transmission type suitable for the applicable communication medium.

[0243] The circuitry / module (e.g., communication unit) for communication 1424 can take various forms. In some embodiments, the circuitry / module 1424 for communication can correspond to, for example, an interface (e.g., a bus interface, a transmit / receive interface, or some other type of signal interface), a communication device, a transceiver, a transmitter, a receiver, or some other similar component as described herein. In some implementations, the communication interface 1402 includes the circuitry / module 1424 for communication and / or the code 1444 for communication. In some implementations, the circuitry / module 1424 for communication and / or the code 1444 for communication is configured to control the communication interface 1402 (e.g., a transceiver, receiver, or transmitter) to transmit information.

[0244] The output circuit / module 1426 may include circuitry and / or programming (e.g., output code 1446 stored on storage medium 1404) adapted to perform several functions related to, for example, outputting (e.g., sending or transmitting) information. In some implementations, the output circuit / module 1426 may acquire information (e.g., from the acquisition circuit / module 1420, memory device 1408, or some other component of device 1400) and process the information (e.g., encoding the information for transmission). In some scenarios, the output circuit / module 1426 transmits information to another component (e.g., communication circuit / module 1424, transmitter 1414, communication interface 1402, or some other component), which in turn transmits the information to another device. In some scenarios (e.g., if the circuit / module 1426 for output includes a transmitter), the circuit / module 1426 for output transmits information directly to another device (e.g., the final destination) via radio frequency signal transmission or some other type of signal transmission suitable for applicable communication media.

[0245] The circuitry / module 1426 for output (e.g., a unit for output) can take various forms. In some embodiments, the circuitry / module 1426 for output can correspond to, for example, the processing circuitry discussed herein. In some embodiments, the circuitry / module 1426 for output can correspond to, for example, an interface (e.g., a bus interface, a transmit interface, or some other type of signal interface), a communication device, a transceiver, a transmitter, or some other similar component as discussed herein. In some implementations, the communication interface 1402 includes the circuitry / module 1426 for output and / or the code 1446 for output. In some implementations, the circuitry / module 1426 for output and / or the code 1446 for output are configured to control the communication interface 1402 (e.g., a transceiver or transmitter) to transmit information.

[0246] The circuit / module 1428 for processing may include circuitry and / or programming adapted to perform certain functions related to, for example, processing information (e.g., processing code 1448 stored on storage medium 1404). In some cases, the circuit / module 1428 for processing (e.g., a unit for processing) may correspond to, for example, processing circuitry.

[0247] Initially, the processing circuit / module 1428 obtains at least one first transmission block and at least one second transmission block. The processing circuit / module 1428 may obtain this information, for example, from the communication interface 1402, the memory device 1408, or some other component of the device 1400. Subsequently, the processing circuit / module 1428 processes the at least one first transmission block and the at least one second transmission block, wherein the processing of the at least one first transmission block is independent of the processing of the at least one second transmission block (at least in some cases, e.g., error handling). The processing circuit / module 1428 may then output the processing result to another component of the device 1400 (e.g., the memory device 1408, the communication interface 1402, or some other component).

[0248] The circuitry / module 1430 for transmission may include circuitry and / or programming adapted to perform several functions related to, for example, transmitting (e.g., sending) information (e.g., code 1450 for transmission stored on storage medium 1404). In some implementations, the circuitry / module 1430 for transmission may obtain information (e.g., from memory device 1408 or some other component of device 1400), process the information (e.g., encode the information for transmission), and send the information to another component (e.g., transmitter 1414, communication interface 1402, or some other component) which transmits the information to another device. In some scenarios (e.g., if the circuitry / module 1430 for transmission includes a transmitter), the circuitry / module 1430 for transmission transmits information directly to another device (e.g., the final destination) via radio frequency signal transmission or some other type of signal transmission suitable for applicable communication media.

[0249] The circuitry / module 1430 for transmitting (e.g., a unit for transmitting) can take various forms. In some embodiments, the circuitry / module 1430 for transmitting can correspond to, for example, an interface (e.g., a bus interface, a transmit / receive interface, or some other type of signal interface), a communication device, a transceiver, a transmitter, or some other similar component as discussed herein. In some implementations, the communication interface 1402 includes the circuitry / module 1430 for transmitting and / or the code 1450 for transmitting. In some implementations, the circuitry / module 1430 for transmitting and / or the code 1450 for transmitting are configured to control the communication interface 1402 (e.g., a transceiver or transmitter) to transmit information.

[0250] The circuit / module 1432 for allocation may include circuitry and / or programming adapted to perform several functions related to, for example, allocating resources (e.g., code 1452 for allocation stored on storage medium 1404). In some cases, the circuit / module 1432 for allocation (e.g., a unit for allocation) may correspond to, for example, processing circuitry.

[0251] In some configurations, the circuitry / module 1432 for allocation can obtain information about available resources and about interactions between links (e.g., from the unit 1420 for acquisition, memory device 1408, or some other component). The circuitry / module 1432 for allocation can then select an allocation based on the interaction (e.g., as discussed herein) and output the allocation indication to components of device 1400 (e.g., the circuitry / module 1424 for communication, memory device 1408, or some other component).

[0252] The circuit / module 1434 for coordination may include circuitry and / or programming adapted to perform several functions related to, for example, coordination with another device (e.g., code 1454 for coordination stored on storage medium 1404). In some cases, the circuit / module 1434 for coordination (e.g., a unit for coordination) may correspond to, for example, processing circuitry.

[0253] In some configurations, the coordination circuit / module 1434 may obtain information on which the coordination is based (e.g., the protected portion of the RF resource) (e.g., from the unit 1420 for obtaining, memory device 1408, or some other component). The coordination circuit / module 1434 may then communicate with another device (e.g., via the communication circuit / module 1424, memory device 1408, communication interface 1402, or some other component) to select or otherwise use at least one RF resource.

[0254] The circuit / module 1436 for generation may include circuitry and / or programming adapted to perform certain functions related to, for example, generating information (e.g., code 1456 for generation stored on storage medium 1404). In some cases, the circuit / module 1436 for generation (e.g., a unit for generation) may correspond to, for example, processing circuitry.

[0255] In some states, the generating circuit / module 1436 can generate a feedback signal based on the channel status information of multiple links obtained. In some states, the generating circuit / module 1436 can generate an event trigger based on the measurement information obtained for multiple links. Subsequently, the generating circuit / module 1436 outputs the generated information (e.g., output to the communication circuit / module 1424, memory device 1408, communication interface 1402, or some other component).

[0256] The circuit / module 1438 for aggregation may include circuitry and / or programming adapted to perform certain functions related to, for example, aggregation information (e.g., aggregation code 1458 stored on storage medium 1404). In some cases, the circuit / module 1438 for aggregation (e.g., a unit for aggregation) may correspond to, for example, processing circuitry.

[0257] In some configurations, the circuit / module 1438 for aggregation can acquire information to be aggregated over a period of time (e.g., from the acquisition unit 1420, memory device 1408, or some other component). Therefore, the circuit / module 1438 for aggregation can store the information it has collected (e.g., in memory device 1408 or some other component). The circuit / module 1438 for aggregation then outputs aggregation information or information about the aggregation information (e.g., to the circuit / module 1424 for communication, memory device 1408, communication interface 1402, or some other component). Example program

[0258] Figures 15-27 illustrate communication procedures 1500-2700 according to some of the states of this invention. Each process can be independent or used in conjunction with one or more other processes (e.g., at least partially with them). Each process can be performed within a processing circuit (e.g., processing circuit 1410 of Figure 14), which can be located in a UE, TRP, gNB, BS, or some other suitable device. Of course, within the various states of this invention, each process can be implemented by any suitable device capable of supporting communication-related operations.

[0259] For illustrative purposes, the following operations can be described in the context of the first and second wireless communication links. It should be understood that these teachings can be applied to a different number of links (e.g., three or more).

[0260] Furthermore, in each instance program, the first wireless communication link and the second wireless communication link can be independent links. Therefore, the link can have one or more of the following characteristics, or can be associated with one or more of the following characteristics.

[0261] In some embodiments, the device can transmit a first transport block via a first wireless communication link, wherein the first transport block can be processed independently of a second transport block transmitted via a second wireless communication link. In some embodiments, error handling of the first transport block can be independent of error handling of the second transport block. In some embodiments, cyclic redundancy check (CRC) processing of the first transport block can be independent of CRC processing of the second transport block.

[0262] As discussed herein, the first and second wireless communication links can be beamformed links. Therefore, in some embodiments, communication of the first transport block can be via a first beam, and communication of the second transport block can be via a second beam. In some embodiments, communication on the first wireless communication link (e.g., via the first wireless communication link) can use a first radio frequency (RF) chain of the device; while communication on the second wireless communication link can use a second RF chain of the device. In some embodiments, communication on the first wireless communication link can use a first antenna subarray of the device; while communication on the second wireless communication link can use a second antenna subarray of the device. Instance Channel Sensing Program

[0263] Figures 15 and 16 illustrate the channel sensing procedure.

[0264] At block 1502 in Figure 15, the device (e.g., UE) obtains first sensing information of the first wireless communication link. In some cases, obtaining the first sensing information may include sensing using a first beam associated with the first wireless communication link.

[0265] In block 1504, the device obtains second sensing information from the second wireless communication link. In some cases (e.g., if the device is a UE), obtaining the second sensing information may include sensing using a second beam associated with the second wireless communication link. In some cases (e.g., if the device is a TRP), obtaining the second sensing information may include receiving the second sensing information from another device configured to sense using the second beam associated with the second wireless communication link. In some cases, procedure 1500 may include outputting first sensing information for transmission to another device.

[0266] In block 1506, the device determines whether to transmit over the first wireless communication link based on first sensing information and second sensing information. For example, if the decision is to transmit, the device can transmit the first transport block via the first wireless communication link.

[0267] In some cases, the first and second wireless communication links can be members of a channel sensing group. In this case, a common set of channel sensing parameters can be used for sensing by all members of the channel sensing group. In some cases, sensing may include pre-dialogue listening operations.

[0268] In some cases, program 1500 may also include determining whether to transmit over a second wireless communication link based on first sensing information and second sensing information.

[0269] In some configurations, procedure 1500 may also include using a first radio frequency (RF) chain of the device to communicate on a first wireless communication link; and using a second RF chain of the device to communicate on a second wireless communication link.

[0270] In some configurations, procedure 1500 may also include using the first antenna subarray of the device to communicate on the first wireless communication link; and using the second antenna subarray of the device to communicate on the second wireless communication link.

[0271] Referring now to Figure 16, in block 1602, the device (e.g., UE) obtains first sensing information of the first wireless communication link.

[0272] In block 1604, the device determines whether to transmit over the first wireless communication link based on the first sensing information.

[0273] In block 1606, the device obtains second sensing information from the second wireless communication link.

[0274] In some cases, obtaining the first sensing information can be a first-channel sensing operation. Furthermore, obtaining the second sensing information can be a second-channel sensing operation, wherein the second-channel sensing operation is independent of the first-channel sensing operation. In some cases, the first-channel sensing operation can use a first beam, and the second-channel sensing operation can use a second beam.

[0275] In block 1608, the device determines whether to transmit on the second wireless communication link based on the second sensing information. Here, the decision on whether to transmit on the second wireless communication link can be independent of the decision on whether to transmit on the first wireless communication link.

[0276] In some embodiments, processing 1600 may also include: if the decision on whether to transmit on the first wireless communication link is to transmit, then transmitting the first transport block via the first wireless communication link; if the decision on whether to transmit on the second wireless communication link is to transmit, then transmitting the second transport block via the second wireless communication link; and processing the first transport block independently of the second transport block. In some embodiments, the processing may include error handling. In some embodiments, the processing may include cyclic redundancy check (CRC) processing. Instance control channel program

[0277] Figures 17 and 18 illustrate the processing of control channel signal transmission.

[0278] At block 1702 in Figure 17, the device (e.g., UE) transmits data via a first wireless communication link.

[0279] In block 1704, the device transmits control information for the second wireless communication link via the control channel of the first wireless communication link. In some cases, the control channel may be a physical downlink control channel (PDCCH).

[0280] In some configurations, a first wireless communication link may be provided to carry a first type of control information, while a second wireless communication link may be provided to carry a second type of control information that is different from the first type of control information.

[0281] In different implementations, the control information can take different forms. In some cases, the control information may include an indication of the presence of a second wireless communication link. In other cases, the control information may include an indication that the second wireless communication link is active. In still other cases, the control information may include Hybrid Automatic Repeat Request (HARQ) feedback for the second wireless communication link.

[0282] In some cases, program 1700 may include determining, based on at least one indication, whether to transmit control information for a set of independent links via the control channel of the first wireless communication link.

[0283] In some cases, program 1700 may include sending control information to another device configured to communicate via a second wireless communication link.

[0284] In some cases, program 1700 may include transmitting other data via a second wireless communication link.

[0285] Referring now to Figure 18, in block 1802, a device (e.g., a UE) transmits first control information via a first control channel of a first wireless communication link.

[0286] In block 1804, the device transmits second control information via a second control channel of a second wireless communication link. In some cases, the first control channel may be independent of the second control channel.

[0287] In some embodiments, program 1800 may include transmitting a first transport block via a first wireless communication link; transmitting a second transport block via the second wireless communication link; and processing the first transport block independently of the second transport block. In some embodiments, processing may include error handling. In some embodiments, processing may include cyclic redundancy check (CRC) processing. Instance Assignment Procedure

[0288] Figure 19 illustrates the allocation process.

[0289] At block 1902 in Figure 19, the device (e.g., UE) determines the interaction between the first wireless communication link and the second wireless communication link. In some cases, communication via the first wireless communication link can be independent of communication via the second wireless communication link.

[0290] Interaction can take different forms in different scenarios. In some cases, interaction can be characterized by the amount of radio frequency (RF) isolation between the first and second wireless communication links. In other cases, interaction can be characterized by the amount of radio frequency (RF) interference between the first and second wireless communication links.

[0291] In block 1904, the device allocates at least one resource for at least one of a first wireless communication link or a second wireless communication link. In some cases, the allocation may be based on a determined interaction.

[0292] If the RF isolation is less than the RF isolation threshold, the allocation may include: specifying that communication via the first wireless communication link is along a first direction within a specific symbol time; and specifying that communication via the second wireless communication link is along a second direction different from the first direction within the same specific symbol time. In some cases, the first direction may be an uplink direction; and the second direction may be a downlink direction.

[0293] If the RF isolation is greater than the RF isolation threshold, the allocation may include: specifying communication via the first wireless communication link in a first direction within a specific symbol time; and specifying communication via the second wireless communication link in the first direction within a specific symbol time.

[0294] If the RF isolation is less than the RF isolation threshold, the allocation may include: specifying that the uplink probe of the first wireless communication link is time-division multiplexed within the subframe.

[0295] In some configurations, procedure 1900 may include determining at least one type of information carried by a first wireless communication link or a second wireless communication link; and allocating at least one resource to at least one of the first wireless communication link or the second wireless communication link, wherein the allocation may be based on the determined at least one type of information.

[0296] In some embodiments, procedure 1900 may include identifying a protected portion of a first wireless communication link; and restricting transmission on the second wireless communication link for a subset of frequency resources associated with the protected portion. Restricting transmission may include reducing transmission power or temporarily halting transmission. Additionally, procedure 1900 may include coordinating the protected portion with at least one other device (e.g., an SNP). Example power control program

[0297] Figures 20 and 21 illustrate the power control procedure.

[0298] At block 2002 of Figure 20, the device (e.g., UE) obtains first power control information for the first wireless communication link. In some cases, obtaining the first power control information may include using a first beam associated with the first wireless communication link to receive a first signal.

[0299] In block 2004, the device obtains second power control information for the second wireless communication link. In some cases (e.g., if the device is a TRP), obtaining the second power control information may include receiving the second power control information from another device configured to use a second beam associated with the second wireless communication link to receive a second signal. In some cases, procedure 2000 may include outputting first power control information for transmission to another device. In some cases (e.g., if the device is a UE), obtaining the second power control information may include using a second beam associated with the second wireless communication link to receive a second signal.

[0300] In some cases, the first power control information may include a first power control command transmitted via a first wireless communication link; and the second power control information may include a second power control command transmitted via a second wireless communication link.

[0301] At block 2006, the device generates a power control signal based on the first power control information and the second power control information.

[0302] In some cases, the power control signal can be used to control the transmission power across multiple wireless communication links, including a first wireless communication link and a second wireless communication link. In this case, the power control signal can indicate the maximum transmission power across multiple wireless communication links.

[0303] In some embodiments, program 2000 may include determining whether a power control signal controls transmission power across a plurality of wireless communication links, including a first wireless communication link and a second wireless communication link. In some embodiments, this determination may be based on whether the first wireless communication link and the second wireless communication link share a radio frequency (RF) band.

[0304] In some cases, the first power control information may include a first indication of the transmission power on the first wireless communication link; the second power control information may include a second indication of the transmission power on the second wireless communication link; and the power control signal may include power control constraints across the first and second wireless communication links.

[0305] Referring now to FIG21, in block 2102, the device (e.g., UE) obtains first power control information for the first wireless communication link.

[0306] At block 2104, the device generates a first power control signal based on first power control information. In some states, obtaining the first power control information may include a first power control operation. In some states, the first power control operation may use a first beam.

[0307] In block 2106, the device obtains second power control information for the second wireless communication link. In some embodiments, obtaining the second power control information may include a second power control operation. The second power control operation may be independent of the first power control operation. In some embodiments, the second power control operation may use a second beam.

[0308] In block 2108, the device generates a second power control signal based on the second power control information.

[0309] In some embodiments, program 2100 may include transmitting a first transport block via a first wireless communication link; transmitting a second transport block via the second wireless communication link; and processing the first transport block independently of the second transport block. In some embodiments, processing may include error handling. In some embodiments, processing may include cyclic redundancy check (CRC) processing. Instance channel status feedback procedure

[0310] Figures 22 and 23 illustrate the procedure for channel status feedback.

[0311] At block 2202 in Figure 22, the device (e.g., UE) obtains first channel status information of the first wireless communication link. In some cases, obtaining the first channel status information may include receiving a first signal using a first beam associated with the first wireless communication link.

[0312] In block 2204, the device obtains second channel status information of the second wireless communication link. In some cases (e.g., if the device is a TRP), obtaining the second channel status information may include receiving the second channel status information from another device configured to receive a second signal using a second beam associated with the second wireless communication link. In some cases, procedure 2200 may include outputting first channel status information for transmission to another device. In some cases (e.g., if the device is a UE), obtaining the second channel status information may include receiving a second signal using a second beam associated with the second wireless communication link.

[0313] At block 2206, the device generates a feedback signal based on the first channel status information and the second channel status information. In some cases, the feedback signal may include channel status information (CSI) feedback. In this case, the first channel status information may include a first channel status information reference signal (CSI-RS) transmitted via a first wireless communication link; and the second channel status information may include a second CSI-RS transmitted via a second wireless communication link.

[0314] In some cases, procedure 2200 may include determining whether the feedback signal is based on first channel status information and second channel status information, wherein the determination is based on whether the first antenna subarray of the first wireless communication link is within a threshold distance of the second antenna subarray used for the second wireless communication link.

[0315] In some cases, procedure 2200 may include determining whether the feedback signal is based on first channel status information and second channel status information, wherein the determination may be based on first channel conditions of a first wireless communication link, second channel conditions of a second wireless communication link, or a combination thereof.

[0316] Referring now to Figure 23, in block 2302, a device (e.g., a UE) obtains first channel status information of a first wireless communication link. In some cases, obtaining the first channel status information may include first channel status operation. In some cases, the first channel status operation may use a first beam.

[0317] At block 2304, the device generates a first feedback signal based on the first channel status information. In some cases, the first feedback signal may include first channel status information (CSI) feedback. Furthermore, the first channel status information may include a first channel status information reference signal (CSI-RS) transmitted via the first wireless communication link.

[0318] In block 2306, the device obtains second channel status information of the second wireless communication link. In some cases, obtaining the second channel status information may include second channel status operation. The second channel status operation may be independent of the first channel status operation. In some cases, the second channel status operation may use a second beam.

[0319] In block 2308, the device generates a second feedback signal based on the second channel status information. In some cases, the second feedback signal may include second CSI feedback. Furthermore, the second channel status information may include a second CSI-RS transmitted via a second wireless communication link.

[0320] In some embodiments, program 2300 may include transmitting a first transport block via a first wireless communication link; transmitting a second transport block via the second wireless communication link; and processing the first transport block independently of the second transport block. In some embodiments, processing may include error handling. In some embodiments, processing may include cyclic redundancy check (CRC) processing. Example Beam Information Program

[0321] Figures 24 and 25 illustrate the procedures used to transmit beam information.

[0322] In block 2402 of Figure 24, the device (e.g., UE) transmits data via a first wireless communication link.

[0323] In block 2404, the device transmits beam information for the second wireless communication link via the first wireless communication link.

[0324] Beam information can take different forms in different scenarios. In some cases, beam information may indicate that at least one beam for at least one radio communication link is being switched. In some cases, beam information may indicate that a user equipment (UE) switches to another beam or beam direction. In some cases, beam information may include a Random Access Channel (RACH) message or a Scheduling Request (SR), where the RACH message or SR indicates a beam failure on a second radio communication link. In some cases, beam information may indicate a failure event on a second radio communication link. In some cases, beam information may be an acknowledgment of beam switching. In some cases, beam information may include: beam recovery information, an indication to send new beam pairing information, an indication of a preferred beam, a beam identifier, a specified time for beam switching, or any combination thereof.

[0325] In some cases, program 2400 may include sending beam information to another device configured to communicate via a second wireless communication link.

[0326] In some cases, program 2400 may include transmitting other data via a second wireless communication link.

[0327] Referring now to Figure 25, in block 2502, a device (e.g., a UE) transmits first beam information via a first control channel of a first wireless communication link.

[0328] In block 2504, the device transmits second beam information via the second control channel of the second wireless communication link, wherein the first control channel is independent of the second control channel.

[0329] In some embodiments, program 2500 may include transmitting a first transport block via a first wireless communication link; transmitting a second transport block via the second wireless communication link; and processing the first transport block independently of the second transport block. In some embodiments, processing may include error handling. In some embodiments, processing may include cyclic redundancy check (CRC) processing. Instance link measurement and event triggering procedures

[0330] Figures 26 and 27 illustrate the procedures for link measurement and event triggering.

[0331] At block 2602 in Figure 26, the device (e.g., UE) obtains first measurement information of the first wireless communication link. In some cases, obtaining the first measurement information may include receiving a first signal using a first beam associated with the first wireless communication link.

[0332] In block 2604, the device obtains second measurement information from the second wireless communication link. In some cases (e.g., if the device is a TRP), obtaining the second measurement information may include receiving the second measurement information from another device configured to receive a second signal using a second beam associated with the second wireless communication link. In some cases, procedure 2600 may include outputting the first measurement information for transmission to another device. In some cases (e.g., if the device is a UE), obtaining the second measurement information may include receiving the second signal using a second beam associated with the second wireless communication link.

[0333] In block 2606, the device generates an event trigger based on the first measurement information and the second measurement information.

[0334] In some cases, program 2600 may include aggregated first and second measurement information. In this case, event triggering can be generated based on the aggregated first and second measurement information.

[0335] Referring now to Figure 27, in block 2702, a device (e.g., a UE) obtains first measurement information of a first wireless communication link. In some cases, obtaining the first measurement information may include a first measurement operation. In some cases, the first measurement operation may use a first beam.

[0336] In block 2704, the device generates a first event trigger based on the first measurement information.

[0337] In block 2706, the device obtains second measurement information from the second wireless communication link. In some embodiments, obtaining the second measurement information may include a second measurement operation. The second measurement operation may be independent of the first measurement operation. In some embodiments, the second measurement operation may use a second beam.

[0338] In block 2708, the device generates a second event trigger based on the second measurement information.

[0339] In some embodiments, program 2700 may include transmitting a first transport block via a first wireless communication link; transmitting a second transport block via the second wireless communication link; and processing the first transport block independently of the second transport block. In some embodiments, processing may include error handling. In some embodiments, processing may include cyclic redundancy check (CRC) processing. Second instance device

[0340] Figure 28 illustrates a block diagram of an example hardware implementation of device 2800 configured to communicate according to one or more modes of this invention. Device 2800 may be implemented in a UE, TRP, gNB, base station (BS), or some other type of device supporting wireless communication. In various implementations, device 2800 may be implemented in an access terminal, access point, or some other type of device. In various implementations, device 2800 may be implemented in a server, network entity, mobile phone, smartphone, tablet computer, portable computer, personal computer, sensor, alarm, vehicle, machine, entertainment device, medical device, or any other electronic device with circuitry.

[0341] Device 2800 includes a communication interface (e.g., at least one transceiver) 2802, a storage medium 2804, a user interface 2806, a memory device 2808 (e.g., memory circuitry), and processing circuitry 2810 (e.g., at least one processor). In various implementations, the user interface 2806 may include one or more of the following: a keyboard, a display, a speaker, a microphone, a touchscreen display, and some other circuitry for receiving input from or sending output to a user.

[0342] These components can be coupled to and / or in electrical communication with each other via signal transmission buses or other suitable components, typically represented by the connection lines in Figure 28. Signal transmission buses can include any number of interconnecting buses and bridges, depending on the specific application and overall design constraints of the processing circuitry 2810. The signal transmission buses link various circuits together, such that each of the communication interface 2802, storage medium 2804, user interface 2806, and memory device 2808 is coupled to and / or in electrical communication with the processing circuitry 2810. The signal transmission buses can also connect various other circuits (not shown), such as timing sources, peripheral devices, voltage regulators, and power management circuitry, which are well known in the art to which this invention pertains and will therefore not be described further.

[0343] Communication interface 2802 provides a unit for communicating with other devices via a transmission medium. In some implementations, communication interface 2802 may be adapted to facilitate wireless communication of device 2800. For example, communication interface 2802 may include circuitry and / or programming adapted to facilitate bidirectional communication of information about one or more communication devices in a network. Thus, in some implementations, communication interface 2802 may be coupled to one or more antennas 2812 for wireless communication within a wireless communication system. In some implementations, communication interface 2802 may be configured for wired communication. For example, communication interface 2802 may be a bus interface, a transmit / receive interface, or some other type of signal interface including drivers, buffers, or other circuitry for outputting and / or receiving signals (e.g., outputting signals from integrated circuits and / or receiving signals into integrated circuits). Communication interface 2802 may be configured with one or more independent receivers and / or transmitters and one or more transceivers. In the illustrated example, communication interface 2802 includes a transmitter 2814 and a receiver 2816. Communication interface 2802 serves as an example of a unit for receiving and / or for transmitting.

[0344] Memory device 2808 may represent one or more memory devices. As noted, memory device 2808 may maintain link information 2818 and other information used by device 2800. In some implementations, memory device 2808 and storage medium 2804 are implemented as a common memory component. Memory device 2808 may also be used to store data manipulated by processing circuitry 2810 or other components of device 2800.

[0345] Storage medium 2804 may represent one or more computer-readable, machine-readable, and / or processor-readable devices for storing program design, such as processor-executable code or instructions (e.g., software, firmware), electronic data, databases, or other digital information. Storage medium 2804 may also be used to store data manipulated by processing circuitry 2810 when the program design is executed. Storage medium 2804 may be any available media accessible by a general-purpose or special-purpose processor, including portable or fixed storage devices, optical storage devices, and various other media capable of storing, containing, or carrying program design.

[0346] By way of example and not limitation, storage medium 2804 may include magnetic storage devices (e.g., hard disks, floppy disks, magnetic stripes), optical discs (e.g., compact discs (CDs) or digital versatile discs (DVDs)), smart cards, flash memory devices (e.g., cards, sticks, or keypads), random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), programmable ROM (PROM), erasable PROM (EPROM), electronically erasable PROM (EEPROM), temporary registers, removable disks, and any other suitable media for storing software and / or instructions accessible and readable by a computer. Storage medium 2804 may be embodied in an article of manufacture (e.g., a computer program product). As an example, a computer program product may include computer-readable media in packaging material. In view of the foregoing, in some implementations, storage medium 2804 may be a non-transitory (e.g., tangible) storage medium.

[0347] Storage medium 2804 can be coupled to processing circuitry 2810, allowing processing circuitry 2810 to read information from and write information to storage medium 2804. That is, storage medium 2804 can be coupled to processing circuitry 2810 such that storage medium 2804 is at least accessible by processing circuitry 2810, including instances where at least one storage medium is integrated with processing circuitry 2810 and / or instances where at least one storage medium is separate from processing circuitry 2810 (e.g., residing in device 2800, outside device 2800, distributed across multiple entities, etc.).

[0348] The program stored in storage medium 2804, when executed by processing circuitry 2810, causes processing circuitry 2810 to perform one or more of the various functions and / or processing operations described herein. For example, storage medium 2804 may include operations configured to adjust the operation at one or more hardware blocks of processing circuitry 2810, and to perform wireless communication using communication interface 2802 and their respective communication protocols. In some cases, storage medium 2804 may include a computer-readable medium storing computer-executable code, including code for performing the functions described herein.

[0349] Processing circuitry 2810 is typically adapted to process, including execute, such programming stored on storage medium 2804. As used herein, the terms "code" or "programming" should be broadly interpreted to include, but are not limited to, instructions, instruction sets, data, code, code snippets, program code, program, programming, subprogram, software module, application, software application, software suite, convention, subconvention, object, executable file, executable thread, program, function, etc., whether referred to as software, firmware, middleware, microcode, hardware description language, or otherwise.

[0350] Processing circuitry 2810 is arranged to acquire, process, and / or transmit data, control data access and storage, issue commands, and control other desired operations. Processing circuitry 2810 may include circuitry configured to implement a desired programmable design provided by suitable media in at least one instance. For example, processing circuitry 2810 may be implemented as one or more processors, one or more controllers, and / or other structures configured to execute executable programs. Examples of processing circuitry 2810 may include general-purpose processors, digital signal processors (DSPs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) or other programmable logic components, individual gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof designed to perform the functions described herein. General-purpose processors may include microprocessors and any known processors, controllers, microcontrollers, or state machines. Processing circuitry 2810 may also be implemented as a combination of computing components, such as DSPs and microprocessors, multiple microprocessors, one or more microprocessors incorporating a DSP core, a combination of ASICs and microprocessors, or any other configuration of varying numbers. These examples of processing circuit 2810 are for illustrative purposes, and other suitable configurations within the scope of this case may also be conceived.

[0351] Depending on one or more of the embodiments described herein, processing circuitry 2810 may be adapted to perform any or all of the features, programs, functions, operations, and / or routines of any or all of the devices described herein. For example, processing circuitry 2810 may be configured to perform any of the steps, functions, and / or processes described with respect to Figures 1-13 and 29-55. As used herein, the term "adapted" with respect to processing circuitry 2810 may mean that processing circuitry 2810 is configured, used, implemented, and / or programmed in accordance with one or more of the features described herein to perform a particular program, function, operation, and / or routine.

[0352] Processing circuitry 2810 may be a dedicated processor, such as an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), which serves as a unit (e.g., structure) for performing any of the operations described in conjunction with Figures 1-13 and 29-55. Processing circuitry 2810 serves as an example of a unit for transmitting and / or a unit for receiving. In various implementations, processing circuitry 2810 may at least partially provide and / or incorporate the functionality of any of the above-described Figures 7-13.

[0353] According to at least one embodiment of the device 2800, the processing circuit 2810 may include one or more of the following: a circuit / module 2820 for communication, a circuit / module 2822 for processing, a circuit / module 2824 for establishing, a circuit / module 2826 for execution, a circuit / module 2828 for determining, a circuit / module 2830 for conducting, a circuit / module 2832 for triggering, a circuit / module 2834 for identification, or a circuit / module 2836 for transmitting. In various implementations, the circuit / module 2820 for communication, the circuit / module 2822 for processing, the circuit / module 2824 for establishing, the circuit / module 2826 for execution, the circuit / module 2828 for determining, the circuit / module 2830 for conducting, the circuit / module 2832 for triggering, the circuit / module 2834 for identification, or the circuit / module 2836 for transmitting may at least partially provide and / or incorporate the functions described above in any of Figures 7-13.

[0354] As previously mentioned, the program stored in storage medium 2804, when executed by processing circuitry 2810, causes processing circuitry 2810 to perform one or more of the various functions and / or program operations described herein. For example, in various implementations, the program is designed to cause processing circuitry 2810 to perform the various functions, steps, and / or programs described herein with reference to Figures 1-13 and 29-55. As shown in Figure 28, storage medium 2804 may include one or more of the following: code 2838 for communication, code 2840 for processing, code 2842 for establishing, code 2844 for execution, code 2846 for determining, code 2848 for transmitting, code 2850 for triggering, code 2852 for identification, or code 2854 for sending. In various implementations, the code 2838 for communication, the code 2840 for processing, the code 2842 for establishing, the code 2844 for execution, the code 2846 for decision-making, the code 2848 for transmission, the code 2850 for triggering, the code 2852 for identification, or the code 2854 for sending can be executed or otherwise used to provide the functions of the circuit / module 2820 for communication, the circuit / module 2822 for processing, the circuit / module 2824 for establishing, the circuit / module 2826 for execution, the circuit / module 2828 for decision-making, the circuit / module 2830 for transmission, the circuit / module 2832 for triggering, the circuit / module 2834 for identification, or the circuit / module 2836 for sending as described herein. Example program

[0355] Figures 29-55 illustrate communication procedures 2900-5500 according to certain states of this invention. Each procedure may be independent or used in combination with one or more other procedures (e.g., at least partially used with one or more other procedures). Each process may be performed within a processing circuit (e.g., processing circuit 2810 of Figure 28), which may be located in a UE, TRP, gNB, BS, or some other suitable device. Of course, within the scope of this invention, each process may be implemented by any suitable device capable of supporting communication-related operations. Instance Independent Link Program

[0356] Figures 29 and 30 illustrate the independent link procedure.

[0357] At block 2902 in Figure 29, the device (e.g., UE) transmits the first transport block via a first link established with the first transmit-receive point (TRP).

[0358] At block 2904, the device transmits the second transport block via the second link established with the second TRP.

[0359] In some configurations, communication via the first link may use a first radio frequency (RF) chain, and communication via the second link may use a second RF chain. In some configurations, each RF chain may include an intermediate frequency (IF) chain and a baseband chain.

[0360] In some cases, communication via the first link may use the first antenna subarray, and communication via the second link may use the second antenna subarray.

[0361] In block 2906, the device processes the first transport block independently of the second transport block. In some states, the processing may include error handling. In some states, the processing may include cyclic redundancy check (CRC) processing.

[0362] In some cases, the procedure may include transmitting at least one additional transport block via at least one other link established with a second TRP or at least one other TRP; and processing the at least one additional transport block independently of the first transport blocks and the second transport blocks.

[0363] In some cases, communication may include millimeter-wave communication.

[0364] In block 3002 of Figure 30, the device (e.g., TRP) establishes a first link between the first transmit / receive point (TRP) and the user equipment (UE).

[0365] At block 3004, the device transmits the first transport block via the first link.

[0366] At block 3006, the device transmits information via the first link to support the transmission of the second transport block via the second link established between the second TRP and the UE.

[0367] In some configurations, the first transport block can be independent of the second transport block. In some configurations, error handling of the first transport block can be independent of error handling of the second transport block. In some configurations, cyclic redundancy check (CRC) processing of the first transport block can be independent of CRC processing of the second transport block. Instance Channel Sensing Program

[0368] Figures 31 and 32 illustrate the channel sensing procedure.

[0369] At block 3102 in Figure 31, a device (e.g., a UE) communicates with multiple transmit-receive points (TRPs) via multiple independent links.

[0370] In block 3104, the device performs channel sensing of the set of independent links by using the same channel sensing parameters for each independent link in the set of independent links.

[0371] At block 3202 in Figure 32, the device (e.g., TRP) establishes a first link between the first transmit / receive point (TRP) and the user equipment (UE).

[0372] In block 3204, the device transmits channel sensing parameters via a first link to a set of independent links used by the UE for communicating with a plurality of TRPs. Instance control channel program

[0373] Figures 33 and 34 illustrate the procedures used to control the transmission of channel signals.

[0374] At block 3302 in Figure 33, the device (e.g., UE) communicates with multiple transmit-receive points (TRPs) via multiple independent links.

[0375] In block 3304, the device transmits control information for the group of independent links via a control channel for one of the independent links in a group of independent links.

[0376] In block 3402 of Figure 34, the device (e.g., TRP) establishes a first link between the first transmit / receive point (TRP) and the user equipment (UE).

[0377] In block 3404, the device transmits control information via a first link for a set of independent links used by the UE to communicate with a plurality of TRPs. Subframe formatting program of the instance

[0378] Figures 35 and 36 illustrate the procedures for communication via different subframe formats.

[0379] At block 3502 in Figure 35, a device (e.g., a UE) establishes connections with multiple transmit-receive points (TRPs) via multiple independent links.

[0380] In block 3504, the device determines whether communication on at least two independent links can proceed in different directions within a specific symbol time.

[0381] In block 3506, according to the decision, the device communicates on at least two independent links.

[0382] At block 3602 in Figure 36, the device (e.g., TRP) determines whether communication on at least two independent links used by the user equipment can proceed in different directions within a specific symbol time.

[0383] In block 3604, the device communicates on at least two independent links based on a decision. Instance Link Indicator

[0384] Figures 37 and 38 illustrate the procedure for indicating the link.

[0385] At block 3702 in Figure 37, the device (e.g., UE) communicates with the first transmit-receive point (TRP) via a first independent link.

[0386] In block 3704, the device transmits instructions for the second independent link to the second TRP via the first independent link.

[0387] In block 3802 of Figure 38, the device (e.g., TRP) communicates with the user equipment (UE) via a first link.

[0388] In block 3804, the device transmits an indication of the second link that can be used for communication between the UE and the second TRP via the first link. In some cases, the first link may be independent of the second link. Example HARQ Feedback Program

[0389] Figures 39 and 40 illustrate the HARQ feedback procedure.

[0390] At block 3902 in Figure 39, a device (e.g., a UE) communicates with multiple transmit-receive points (TRPs) via multiple independent links.

[0391] In block 3904, the device transmits feedback information for one of the independent links in a set of independent links via a feedback channel.

[0392] At block 4002 in Figure 40, the device (e.g., TRP) establishes a first link between the first transmit / receive point (TRP) and the user equipment (UE).

[0393] At block 4004, the device transmits feedback information for a set of independent links used for communication between the UE and multiple TRPs via a feedback channel for the first link. Example power control program

[0394] Figures 41 and 42 illustrate the power control procedure.

[0395] In block 4102 of Figure 41, a device (e.g., a UE) communicates with multiple transmit-receive points (TRPs) via multiple independent links.

[0396] In block 4104, the device transmits power control information for a set of independent links.

[0397] At block 4202 in Figure 42, the device (e.g., TRP) establishes a first link between the first transmit / receive point (TRP) and the user equipment (UE).

[0398] In block 4204, the device transmits power control information via a first link for a set of independent links used for communication between the UE and multiple TRPs. Uplink detection program for the instance

[0399] Figures 43 and 44 illustrate the uplink detection procedure.

[0400] At block 4302 in Figure 43, a device (e.g., a UE) establishes connections with multiple transmit-receive points (TRPs) via multiple independent links.

[0401] In block 4304, the device determines whether uplink probes from at least two independent links can be transmitted concurrently.

[0402] In block 4306, the device transmits uplink probes on at least two independent links based on a decision.

[0403] At block 4402 in Figure 44, the device (e.g., TRP) determines whether uplink probes for at least two independent links used for communication between the user equipment (UE) and multiple transmit-receive points (TRPs) can be transmitted concurrently.

[0404] In block 4404, the device transmits uplink probes on at least two independent links based on a decision. Instance channel status feedback procedure

[0405] Figure 45 illustrates the procedure for channel status feedback.

[0406] At block 4502 in Figure 45, a device (e.g., a UE) communicates with multiple transmit-receive points (TRPs) via multiple independent links.

[0407] In block 4504, the device determines whether the channel status feedback for at least two of the independent links is independent.

[0408] In block 4506, the device transmits channel status feedback for the independent link based on the decision. Example beam switching program

[0409] Figures 46 and 47 illustrate the beam switching procedure.

[0410] In block 4602 of Figure 46, a device (e.g., a UE) communicates with multiple transmit-receive points (TRPs) via multiple independent links.

[0411] In block 4604, the device transmits beam conversion information of the group of independent links via one of the independent links in the group.

[0412] At block 4702 in Figure 47, the device (e.g., TRP) establishes a first link between the first transmit / receive point (TRP) and the user equipment (UE).

[0413] In block 4704, the device transmits beam conversion information via a first link for a set of independent links used by the UE to communicate with multiple TRPs. Beam recovery procedure for the example

[0414] Figures 48 and 49 illustrate the beam recovery procedure.

[0415] At block 4802 in Figure 48, a device (e.g., a UE) communicates with multiple transmit-receive points (TRPs) via multiple independent links.

[0416] In block 4804, the device performs beam recovery on the first independent link in the independent links via the second independent link in the independent links.

[0417] In block 4902 of Figure 49, the device (e.g., TRP) establishes a first link between the first transmit / receive point (TRP) and the user equipment (UE).

[0418] In block 4904, the device transmits beam recovery information for the second link used by the UE to communicate with the second TRP via the first link. Instance link measurement program

[0419] Figures 50 and 51 illustrate the procedure for link measurement.

[0420] At block 5002 in Figure 50, a device (e.g., a UE) communicates with multiple transmit-receive points (TRPs) via multiple independent links.

[0421] In block 5004, the device performs link measurements on a group of independent links.

[0422] In block 5006, the device triggers a handover event based on the link measurements of the group.

[0423] In block 5102 of Figure 51, the device (e.g., TRP) identifies a set of independent links used by the user equipment (UE).

[0424] In block 5104, the device sends an indication to the UE based on the link measurements of the group to trigger a handover event. RACH program of the example

[0425] Figures 52 and 53 illustrate the RACH signal transmission procedure.

[0426] In block 5202 of Figure 52, a device (e.g., a UE) communicates with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links.

[0427] In block 5204, the device determines that multiple independent links have failed.

[0428] In block 5206, the device transmits indications of failures in multiple independent links.

[0429] In block 5302 of Figure 53, the device (e.g., TRP) establishes a first link between the first transmit / receive point (TRP) and the user equipment (UE).

[0430] In block 5304, the device transmits fault indications of multiple independent links used by the UE to communicate with multiple TRPs via the first link. Instance restriction program

[0431] Figures 54 and 55 illustrate the procedure for restricting transmission.

[0432] At block 5402 in Figure 54, a device (e.g., a UE) establishes connections with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links.

[0433] In block 5404, the device identifies a protected portion for at least one of the independent links.

[0434] In block 5406, the device restricts transmission on at least one other independent link of a subset of frequency resources associated with the protected portion.

[0435] At block 5502 in Figure 55, the device (e.g., TRP) establishes a first link between the first transmit / receive point (TRP) and the user equipment (UE).

[0436] In block 5504, the device identifies the protected portion of at least one independent link used by the UE to communicate with a plurality of TRPs.

[0437] In block 5506, the device restricts the transmission of a subset of frequency resources associated with the protected portion on the first link. Additional patterns

[0438] In some embodiments, this invention provides a method for communication, comprising: obtaining first sensing information for a first wireless communication link; obtaining second sensing information for a second wireless communication link; and determining, based on the first sensing information and the second sensing information, whether to transmit on the first wireless communication link.

[0439] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication, comprising a memory and a processor coupled to the memory. The processor and memory are configured to: obtain first sensing information for a first wireless communication link; obtain second sensing information for a second wireless communication link; and determine, based on the first sensing information and the second sensing information, whether to transmit on the first wireless communication link.

[0440] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication. The apparatus includes: a unit for obtaining first sensing information for a first wireless communication link; a unit for obtaining second sensing information for a second wireless communication link; and a unit for determining, based on the first sensing information and the second sensing information, whether to transmit over the first wireless communication link.

[0441] Another aspect of this application provides a non-temporary computer-readable medium for storing computer-executable code, including code for: obtaining first sensing information for a first wireless communication link; obtaining second sensing information for a second wireless communication link; and determining whether to transmit on the first wireless communication link based on the first sensing information and the second sensing information.

[0442] In some embodiments, this invention provides a method for communication, comprising: obtaining first sensing information for a first wireless communication link; determining, based on the first sensing information, whether to transmit on the first wireless communication link; obtaining second sensing information for a second wireless communication link; and determining, based on the second sensing information, whether to transmit on the second wireless communication link, wherein the decision to transmit on the second wireless communication link is independent of the decision to transmit on the first wireless communication link.

[0443] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication, comprising a memory and a processor coupled to the memory. The processor and memory are configured to: acquire first sensing information for a first wireless communication link; determine, based on the first sensing information, whether to transmit on the first wireless communication link; acquire second sensing information for a second wireless communication link; and determine, based on the second sensing information, whether to transmit on the second wireless communication link, wherein the decision to transmit on the second wireless communication link is independent of the decision to transmit on the first wireless communication link.

[0444] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication. The apparatus includes: a unit for acquiring first sensing information for a first wireless communication link; a unit for determining, based on the first sensing information, whether to transmit on the first wireless communication link; a unit for acquiring second sensing information for a second wireless communication link; and a unit for determining, based on the second sensing information, whether to transmit on the second wireless communication link, wherein the decision to transmit on the second wireless communication link is independent of the decision to transmit on the first wireless communication link.

[0445] Another aspect of this application provides a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing computer-executable code, which includes code for: obtaining first sensing information for a first wireless communication link; determining, based on the first sensing information, whether to transmit on the first wireless communication link; obtaining second sensing information for a second wireless communication link; and determining, based on the second sensing information, whether to transmit on the second wireless communication link, wherein the decision to transmit on the second wireless communication link is independent of the decision to transmit on the first wireless communication link.

[0446] In some embodiments, this invention provides a method for communication, including: transmitting data via a first wireless communication link; and transmitting control information for a second wireless communication link via a control channel of the first wireless communication link.

[0447] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication, comprising a memory and a processor coupled to the memory. The processor and memory are configured to: transmit data via a first wireless communication link; and transmit control information for a second wireless communication link via a control channel of the first wireless communication link.

[0448] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication. The apparatus includes: a unit for transmitting data via a first wireless communication link; and a unit for transmitting control information for a second wireless communication link via a control channel of the first wireless communication link.

[0449] Another aspect of this case provides a non-temporary computer-readable medium for storing computer-executable code, which includes code for transmitting data via a first wireless communication link and transmitting control information for a second wireless communication link via a control channel of the first wireless communication link.

[0450] In some embodiments, this invention provides a method for communication, comprising: transmitting first control information via a first control channel of a first wireless communication link; and transmitting second control information via a second control channel of a second wireless communication link, wherein the first control channel is independent of the second control channel.

[0451] Another aspect of this application provides a device configured for communication, comprising a memory and a processor coupled to the memory. The processor and memory are configured to: transmit first control information via a first control channel of a first wireless communication link; and transmit second control information via a second control channel of a second wireless communication link, wherein the first control channel is independent of the second control channel.

[0452] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication. The apparatus includes: a unit for transmitting first control information via a first control channel of a first wireless communication link; and a unit for transmitting second control information via a second control channel of a second wireless communication link, wherein the first control channel is independent of the second control channel.

[0453] Another aspect of this case provides a non-temporary computer-readable medium for storing computer-executable code, which includes code for: transmitting first control information via a first control channel of a first wireless communication link; and transmitting second control information via a second control channel of a second wireless communication link, wherein the first control channel is independent of the second control channel.

[0454] In some embodiments, this application provides a method for communication, comprising: determining an interaction between a first wireless communication link and a second wireless communication link, wherein communication via the first wireless communication link is independent of communication via the second wireless communication link; and allocating at least one resource to at least one of the first wireless communication link or the second wireless communication link, wherein the allocation is based on the determined interaction.

[0455] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication, comprising a memory and a processor coupled to the memory. The processor and memory are configured to: determine an interaction between a first wireless communication link and a second wireless communication link, wherein communication via the first wireless communication link is independent of communication via the second wireless communication link; and allocate at least one resource for at least one of the first wireless communication link or the second wireless communication link, wherein the allocation is based on the determined interaction.

[0456] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication. The apparatus includes: a unit for determining an interaction between a first wireless communication link and a second wireless communication link, wherein communication via the first wireless communication link is independent of communication via the second wireless communication link; and a unit for allocating at least one resource to at least one of the first wireless communication link or the second wireless communication link, wherein the allocation is based on the determined interaction.

[0457] Another aspect of this application provides a non-transitory computer-readable medium for storing computer-executable code, comprising code for: determining an interaction between a first wireless communication link and a second wireless communication link, wherein communication via the first wireless communication link is independent of communication via the second wireless communication link; and allocating at least one resource to at least one of the first wireless communication link or the second wireless communication link, wherein the allocation is based on the determined interaction.

[0458] In some embodiments, this invention provides a method for communication, comprising: obtaining first power control information for a first wireless communication link; obtaining second power control information for a second wireless communication link; and generating a power control signal based on the first power control information and the second power control information.

[0459] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication, comprising a memory and a processor coupled to the memory. The processor and memory are configured to: obtain first power control information for a first wireless communication link; obtain second power control information for a second wireless communication link; and generate a power control signal based on the first and second power control information.

[0460] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication. The apparatus includes: a unit for obtaining first power control information for a first wireless communication link; a unit for obtaining second power control information for a second wireless communication link; and a unit for generating a power control signal based on the first power control information and the second power control information.

[0461] Another aspect of this case provides a non-temporary computer-readable medium for storing computer-executable code, which includes code for: obtaining first power control information for a first wireless communication link; obtaining second power control information for a second wireless communication link; and generating a power control signal based on the first power control information and the second power control information.

[0462] In some embodiments, this invention provides a method for communication, comprising: obtaining first power control information for a first wireless communication link; generating a first power control signal based on the first power control information; obtaining second power control information for a second wireless communication link; and generating a second power control signal based on the second power control information.

[0463] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication, comprising a memory and a processor coupled to the memory. The processor and memory are configured to: obtain first power control information for a first wireless communication link; generate a first power control signal based on the first power control information; obtain second power control information for a second wireless communication link; and generate a second power control signal based on the second power control information.

[0464] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication. The apparatus includes: a unit for obtaining first power control information for a first wireless communication link; a unit for generating a first power control signal based on the first power control information; a unit for obtaining second power control information for a second wireless communication link; and a unit for generating a second power control signal based on the second power control information.

[0465] Another aspect of this case provides a non-temporary computer-readable medium for storing computer-executable code, including code for: obtaining first power control information for a first wireless communication link; generating a first power control signal based on the first power control information; obtaining second power control information for a second wireless communication link; and generating a second power control signal based on the second power control information.

[0466] In some embodiments, this invention provides a method for communication, comprising: obtaining first channel status information of a first wireless communication link; obtaining second channel status information of a second wireless communication link; and generating a feedback signal based on the first channel status information and the second channel status information.

[0467] Another aspect of this application provides a device configured for communication, comprising a memory and a processor coupled to the memory. The processor and memory are configured to: obtain first channel status information of a first wireless communication link; obtain second channel status information of a second wireless communication link; and generate a feedback signal based on the first and second channel status information.

[0468] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication. The apparatus includes: a unit for obtaining first channel status information of a first wireless communication link; a unit for obtaining second channel status information of a second wireless communication link; and a unit for generating a feedback signal based on the first and second channel status information.

[0469] Another aspect of this case provides a non-temporary computer-readable medium for storing computer-executable code, including code for: obtaining first channel status information of a first wireless communication link; obtaining second channel status information of a second wireless communication link; and generating a feedback signal based on the first channel status information and the second channel status information.

[0470] In some embodiments, this invention provides a method for communication, comprising: obtaining first channel status information of a first wireless communication link; generating a first feedback signal based on the first channel status information; obtaining second channel status information of a second wireless communication link; and generating a second feedback signal based on the second channel status information.

[0471] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication, comprising a memory and a processor coupled to the memory. The processor and memory are configured to: obtain first channel status information of a first wireless communication link; generate a first feedback signal based on the first channel status information; obtain second channel status information of a second wireless communication link; and generate a second feedback signal based on the second channel status information.

[0472] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication. The apparatus includes: a unit for obtaining first channel status information of a first wireless communication link; a unit for generating a first feedback signal based on the first channel status information; a unit for obtaining second channel status information of a second wireless communication link; and a unit for generating a second feedback signal based on the second channel status information.

[0473] Another aspect of this case provides a non-temporary computer-readable medium for storing computer-executable code, which includes code for: obtaining first channel status information of a first wireless communication link; generating a first feedback signal based on the first channel status information; obtaining second channel status information of a second wireless communication link; and generating a second feedback signal based on the second channel status information.

[0474] In some embodiments, this invention provides a method for communication, including: transmitting data via a first wireless communication link; and transmitting beam information for a second wireless communication link via the first wireless communication link.

[0475] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication, comprising a memory and a processor coupled to the memory. The processor and memory are configured to: transmit data via a first wireless communication link; and transmit beam information for a second wireless communication link via the first wireless communication link.

[0476] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication. The apparatus includes: a unit for transmitting data via a first wireless communication link; and a unit for transmitting beam information for a second wireless communication link via the first wireless communication link.

[0477] Another aspect of this case provides a non-transitory computer-readable medium for storing computer-executable code, which includes code for transmitting data via a first wireless communication link and transmitting beam information for a second wireless communication link via the first wireless communication link.

[0478] In some embodiments, this invention provides a method for communication, comprising: transmitting first beam information via a first control channel of a first wireless communication link; and transmitting second beam information via a second control channel of a second wireless communication link, wherein the first control channel is independent of the second control channel.

[0479] Another aspect of this application provides a device configured for communication, comprising a memory and a processor coupled to the memory. The processor and memory are configured to: transmit first beam information via a first control channel of a first wireless communication link; and transmit second beam information via a second control channel of a second wireless communication link, wherein the first control channel is independent of the second control channel.

[0480] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication. The apparatus includes: a unit for transmitting first beam information via a first control channel of a first wireless communication link; and a unit for transmitting second beam information via a second control channel of a second wireless communication link, wherein the first control channel is independent of the second control channel.

[0481] Another aspect of this application provides a non-temporary computer-readable medium for storing computer-executable code, which includes code for transmitting first beam information via a first control channel of a first wireless communication link and transmitting second beam information via a second control channel of a second wireless communication link, wherein the first control channel is independent of the second control channel.

[0482] In some embodiments, this invention provides a method for communication, comprising: obtaining first measurement information of a first wireless communication link; obtaining second measurement information of a second wireless communication link; and generating an event trigger based on the first measurement information and the second measurement information.

[0483] Another aspect of this case provides an apparatus configured for communication, comprising a memory and a processor coupled to the memory. The processor and memory are configured to: obtain first measurement information of a first wireless communication link; obtain second measurement information of a second wireless communication link; and generate an event trigger based on the first and second measurement information.

[0484] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication. The apparatus includes: a unit for obtaining first measurement information of a first wireless communication link; a unit for obtaining second measurement information of a second wireless communication link; and a unit for generating an event trigger based on the first and second measurement information.

[0485] Another aspect of this case provides a non-temporary computer-readable medium storing computer-executable code, including code for: obtaining first measurement information of a first wireless communication link; obtaining second measurement information of a second wireless communication link; and generating an event trigger based on the first and second measurement information.

[0486] In some embodiments, this invention provides a method for communication, comprising: obtaining first measurement information of a first wireless communication link; generating a first event trigger based on the first measurement information; obtaining second measurement information of a second wireless communication link; and generating a second event trigger based on the second measurement information.

[0487] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication, comprising a memory and a processor coupled to the memory. The processor and memory are configured to: acquire first measurement information of a first wireless communication link; generate a first event trigger based on the first measurement information; acquire second measurement information of a second wireless communication link; and generate a second event trigger based on the second measurement information.

[0488] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication. The apparatus includes: a unit for obtaining first measurement information of a first wireless communication link; a unit for generating a first event trigger based on the first measurement information; a unit for obtaining second measurement information of a second wireless communication link; and a unit for generating a second event trigger based on the second measurement information.

[0489] Another aspect of this case provides a non-temporary computer-readable medium storing computer-executable code, including code for: obtaining first measurement information of a first wireless communication link; generating a first event trigger based on the first measurement information; obtaining second measurement information of a second wireless communication link; and generating a second event trigger based on the second measurement information.

[0490] In some embodiments, this invention provides a method for communication, comprising: transmitting a first transport block via a first link established with a first transmit-receive point (TRP); transmitting a second transport block via a second link established with a second TRP; and processing the first transport block independently of the second transport block.

[0491] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication, comprising a memory and a processor coupled to the memory. The processor and memory are configured to: transmit a first transport block via a first link established with a first transmit-receive point (TRP); transmit a second transport block via a second link established with a second TRP; and process the first transport block independently of the second transport block.

[0492] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication. The apparatus includes: a unit for transmitting a first transport block via a first link established with a first transmit-receive point (TRP); a unit for transmitting a second transport block via a second link established with a second TRP; and a unit for processing the first transport block independently of the second transport block.

[0493] Another aspect of this case provides a non-transitory computer-readable medium for storing computer-executable code, which includes code for: transmitting a first transport block via a first link established with a first transmit-receive point (TRP); transmitting a second transport block via a second link established with a second TRP; and processing the first transport block independently of the second transport block.

[0494] In some embodiments, this application provides a method for communication, including: communicating with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links; and performing channel sensing on the set of independent links by using the same channel sensing parameters for each independent link in the set of independent links.

[0495] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication, comprising a memory and a processor coupled to the memory. The processor and memory are configured to: communicate with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links; and to perform channel sensing on the set of independent links by using the same channel sensing parameters for each independent link.

[0496] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication. The apparatus includes: a unit for communicating with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links; and a unit for performing channel sensing on the set of independent links by using the same channel sensing parameters for each independent link.

[0497] Another aspect of this application provides a non-transitory computer-readable medium for storing computer-executable code, which includes code for communicating with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links; and performing channel sensing on the set of independent links by using the same channel sensing parameters for each independent link.

[0498] In some embodiments, this application provides a method for communication, including: communicating with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links; and performing channel sensing on each of the independent links, independent of channel sensing on any of the other independent links.

[0499] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication, comprising a memory and a processor coupled to the memory. The processor and memory are configured to communicate with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links; and to perform channel sensing for each of the independent links, independent of channel sensing for any of the other independent links.

[0500] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication. The apparatus includes: a unit for communicating with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links; and a unit for performing channel sensing on each of the independent links independently of channel sensing on any of the other independent links.

[0501] Another aspect of this application provides a non-transitory computer-readable medium for storing computer-executable code, which includes code for communicating with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links; and sensing each execution channel in the independent links, independently of sensing any channel in any of the other independent links.

[0502] In some embodiments, this invention provides a method for communication, including: communicating with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links; and transmitting control information for a set of independent links via a control channel for one of the independent links in the set.

[0503] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication, comprising a memory and a processor coupled to the memory. The processor and memory are configured to: communicate with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links; and transmit control information for a set of independent links via a control channel for one of the independent links in the set.

[0504] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication. The apparatus includes: a unit for communicating with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links; and a unit for transmitting control information for one of the independent links in a set of independent links via a control channel for that set of independent links.

[0505] Another aspect of this application provides a non-transitory computer-readable medium for storing computer-executable code, which includes code for: communicating with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links; and transmitting control information for a set of independent links via a control channel for one of the independent links in the set.

[0506] In some embodiments, this invention provides a method for communication, including: communicating with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links; and for each independent link, transmitting control information via an independent control channel for that independent link.

[0507] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication, comprising a memory and a processor coupled to the memory. The processor and memory are configured to communicate with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links; and for each independent link, to transmit control information via an independent control channel for that independent link.

[0508] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication. The apparatus includes: a unit for communicating with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links; and a unit for transmitting control information for each independent link via an independent control channel for that independent link.

[0509] Another aspect of this application provides a non-transitory computer-readable medium for storing computer-executable code, which includes code for communicating with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links; and for each independent link, transmitting control information via an independent control channel for that independent link.

[0510] In some forms, this application provides a method for communication, comprising: establishing connections with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links; determining whether communication on at least two of the independent links is possible in different directions within a specific symbol time; and, based on the determination, conducting communication on the at least two independent links.

[0511] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication, comprising a memory and a processor coupled to the memory. The processor and memory are configured to: establish connections with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links; determine whether communication on at least two of the independent links can proceed in different directions within a specific symbol time; and, based on the determination, conduct communication on the at least two independent links.

[0512] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication. The apparatus includes: a unit for establishing connections with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links; a unit for determining whether communication on at least two of the independent links can proceed in different directions within a specific symbol time; and a unit for conducting communication on the at least two independent links based on the determination.

[0513] Another aspect of this case provides a non-transitory computer-readable medium for storing computer-executable code, which includes code for: establishing connections with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links; determining whether communication on at least two of the independent links can proceed in different directions within a specific symbol time; and, based on the determination, conducting communication on the at least two independent links.

[0514] In some embodiments, this invention provides a method for communication, comprising: communicating with a first transmit-receive point (TRP) via a first independent link; and transmitting an instruction for a second independent link to a second TRP via the first independent link.

[0515] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication, comprising a memory and a processor coupled to the memory. The processor and memory are configured to: communicate with a first transmit-receive point (TRP) via a first independent link; and transmit instructions for a second independent link to a second TRP via the first independent link.

[0516] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication. The apparatus includes: a unit for communicating with a first transmit-receive point (TRP) via a first independent link; and a unit for transmitting an indication of a second independent link to a second TRP via the first independent link.

[0517] Another aspect of this case provides a non-transitory computer-readable medium for storing computer-executable code, which includes code for: communicating with a first transmit-receive point (TRP) via a first independent link; and transmitting instructions to a second independent link with a second TRP via the first independent link.

[0518] In some embodiments, this application provides a method for communication, including: communicating with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links; and transmitting feedback information of a set of independent links via a feedback channel for one of the independent links in a set of independent links.

[0519] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication, comprising a memory and a processor coupled to the memory. The processor and memory are configured to: communicate with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links; and to transmit feedback information of a set of independent links via a feedback channel for one of the independent links in a set of independent links.

[0520] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication. The apparatus includes: a unit for communicating with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links; and a unit for transmitting feedback information of a set of independent links via a feedback channel for one of the independent links in the set of independent links.

[0521] Another aspect of this application provides a non-transitory computer-readable medium for storing computer-executable code, which includes code for: communicating with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links; and transmitting feedback information of a set of independent links via a feedback channel for one of the independent links in a set of independent links.

[0522] In some embodiments, this invention provides a method for communication, including: communicating with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links; and for each independent link, transmitting feedback information via an independent feedback channel for that independent link.

[0523] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication, comprising a memory and a processor coupled to the memory. The processor and memory are configured to communicate with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links; and for each independent link, to transmit feedback information via an independent feedback channel for that independent link.

[0524] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication. The apparatus includes: a unit for communicating with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links; and a unit for transmitting feedback information for each independent link via an independent feedback channel for that independent link.

[0525] Another aspect of this case provides a non-transitory computer-readable medium for storing computer-executable code, which includes code for communicating with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links; and for each independent link, transmitting feedback information via an independent feedback channel for that independent link.

[0526] In some embodiments, this application provides a method for communication, including: communicating with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links; and transmitting power control information for a set of independent links.

[0527] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication, comprising a memory and a processor coupled to the memory. The processor and memory are configured to: communicate with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links; and transmit power control information for a set of independent links.

[0528] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication. The apparatus includes: a unit for communicating with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links; and a unit for transmitting power control information for a set of independent links.

[0529] Another aspect of this case provides a non-transitory computer-readable medium for storing computer-executable code, which includes code for: communicating with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links; and transmitting power control information for a set of independent links.

[0530] In some embodiments, this invention provides a method for communication, including: communicating with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links; and for each independent link, transmitting corresponding power control information for that independent link.

[0531] Another aspect of this application provides a device configured for communication, comprising a memory and a processor coupled to the memory. The processor and memory are configured to communicate with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links; and for each independent link, to transmit corresponding power control information for that independent link.

[0532] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication. The apparatus includes: a unit for communicating with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links; and a unit for transmitting corresponding power control information for each independent link.

[0533] Another aspect of this application provides a non-transitory computer-readable medium for storing computer-executable code, which includes code for communicating with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links; and for each independent link, transmitting corresponding power control information for that independent link.

[0534] In some forms, this application provides a method for communication, comprising: establishing connections with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links; determining whether uplink probes of at least two of the independent links can be transmitted concurrently; and transmitting uplink probes on the at least two independent links according to the determination.

[0535] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication, comprising a memory and a processor coupled to the memory. The processor and memory are configured to: establish connections with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links; determine whether uplink probes of at least two of the independent links can be transmitted concurrently; and, based on the determination, transmit uplink probes on the at least two independent links.

[0536] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication. The apparatus includes: a unit for establishing connections with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links; a unit for determining whether uplink probes of at least two of the independent links can be transmitted concurrently; and a unit for transmitting uplink probes on the at least two independent links according to the determination.

[0537] Another aspect of the invention is a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing computer-executable code, including code for: establishing connections with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links; determining whether uplink probes of at least two of the independent links can be transmitted concurrently; and transmitting uplink probes on the at least two independent links according to the determination.

[0538] In some embodiments, this application provides a method for communication, comprising: communicating with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links; determining whether the channel status feedback of at least two of the independent links is independent; and transmitting the channel status feedback of the independent links according to the determination.

[0539] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication, comprising a memory and a processor coupled to the memory. The processor and memory are configured to: communicate with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links; determine whether channel status feedback of at least two of the independent links is independent; and transmit the channel status feedback of the independent links according to the determination.

[0540] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication. The apparatus includes: a unit for communicating with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links; a unit for determining whether channel status feedback from at least two of the independent links is independent; and a unit for transmitting the channel status feedback of the independent links based on the determination.

[0541] Another aspect of this application provides a non-transitory computer-readable medium for storing computer-executable code, which includes code for: communicating with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links; determining whether channel status feedback of at least two of the independent links is independent; and transmitting the channel status feedback of the independent links according to the determination.

[0542] In some embodiments, this application provides a method for communication, including: communicating with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links; and transmitting beam conversion information of the set of independent links via one of the independent links in the set of independent links.

[0543] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication, comprising a memory and a processor coupled to the memory. The processor and memory are configured to: communicate with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links; and transmit beam-switching information of a set of independent links via one of the independent links in the set.

[0544] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication. The apparatus includes: a unit for communicating with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links; and a unit for transmitting beam-switching information of a set of independent links via one of the independent links in the set.

[0545] Another aspect of this case provides a non-transitory computer-readable medium for storing computer-executable code, which includes code for: communicating with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links; and transmitting beam switching information of a set of independent links via one of the independent links in the set of independent links.

[0546] In some embodiments, this application provides a method for communication, including: communicating with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links; and transmitting beam switching information independently for each independent link.

[0547] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication, comprising a memory and a processor coupled to the memory. The processor and memory are configured to: communicate with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links; and to transmit beam-switching information independently for each independent link.

[0548] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication. The apparatus includes: a unit for communicating with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links; and a unit for transmitting beam-switching information independently for each independent link.

[0549] Another aspect of this case provides a non-transitory computer-readable medium for storing computer-executable code, which includes code for communicating with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links and for transmitting beam-switching information independently for each independent link.

[0550] In some embodiments, this application provides a method for communication, comprising: communicating with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links; and performing beam recovery on a first independent link of the independent links via a second independent link of the independent links.

[0551] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication, comprising a memory and a processor coupled to the memory. The processor and memory are configured to: communicate with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links; and perform beam recovery on a first independent link via a second independent link in the independent links.

[0552] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication. The apparatus includes: a unit for communicating with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links; and a unit for performing beam recovery on a first independent link of the independent links via a second independent link of the independent links.

[0553] Another aspect of this case provides a non-transitory computer-readable medium for storing computer-executable code, which includes code for: communicating with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links; and performing beam recovery on a first independent link via a second independent link in the independent links.

[0554] In some cases, this application provides a method for communication, including: communicating with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links; and performing beam recovery independently for each independent link.

[0555] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication, comprising a memory and a processor coupled to the memory. The processor and memory are configured to communicate with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links, and to perform beam recovery independently for each independent link.

[0556] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication. The apparatus includes: a unit for communicating with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links; and a unit for performing beam recovery independently for each independent link.

[0557] Another aspect of this case provides a non-transitory computer-readable medium for storing computer-executable code, which includes code for communicating with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links and performing beam recovery independently for each independent link.

[0558] In some cases, this application provides a method for communication, including: communicating with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links; performing link measurements on a set of independent links; and triggering a handover event based on the link measurements of the set.

[0559] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication, comprising memory and a processor coupled to the memory. The processor and memory are configured to: communicate with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links; perform link measurements on a set of independent links; and trigger a handover event based on the link measurements of the set.

[0560] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication. The apparatus includes: a unit for communicating with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links; a unit for performing link measurements on a set of independent links; and a unit for triggering a handover event based on the link measurements of the set.

[0561] Another aspect of this case provides a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing computer-executable code, which includes code for: communicating with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links; performing link measurements on a set of independent links; and triggering a handover event based on the link measurements of the set.

[0562] In some embodiments, this application provides a method for communication, comprising: communicating with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links; independently measuring links for each independent link; and independently triggering a handover event for each independent link based on the link measurements of that independent link.

[0563] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication, comprising memory and a processor coupled to the memory. The processor and memory are configured to: communicate with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links; perform link measurements independently for each independent link; and, for each independent link, independently trigger a handover event for that independent link based on the link measurements for that independent link.

[0564] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication. The apparatus includes: a unit for communicating with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links; a unit for independently measuring links for each independent link; and a unit for independently triggering a handover event for each independent link based on the link measurements of that independent link.

[0565] Another aspect of this case provides a non-transitory computer-readable medium for storing computer-executable code, which includes code for: communicating with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links; independently measuring links for each independent link; and independently triggering a switching event for each independent link based on the link measurement for that independent link.

[0566] In some embodiments, this application provides a method for communication, comprising: communicating with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links; determining that the plurality of independent links have failed; and transmitting an indication of the failure of the plurality of independent links.

[0567] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication, comprising a memory and a processor coupled to the memory. The processor and memory are configured to: communicate with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links; determine that the plurality of independent links have failed; and transmit indications of the failure of the plurality of independent links.

[0568] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication. The apparatus includes: a unit for communicating with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links; a unit for determining that the plurality of independent links have failed; and a unit for transmitting indications of the failure of the plurality of independent links.

[0569] Another aspect of this application provides a non-transitory computer-readable medium for storing computer-executable code, which includes code for: communicating with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links; determining that the plurality of independent links have failed; and transmitting indications of the failure of the plurality of independent links.

[0570] In some embodiments, this application provides a method for communication, comprising: establishing connections with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links; identifying a protected portion of at least one of the independent links; and restricting transmission on at least one other independent link of the independent links to a subset of frequency resources associated with the protected portion.

[0571] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication, comprising a memory and a processor coupled to the memory. The processor and memory are configured to: establish connections with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links; identify a protected portion of at least one of the independent links; and restrict transmission on at least one of the other independent links for a subset of frequency resources associated with the protected portion.

[0572] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication. The apparatus includes: a unit for establishing connections with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links; a unit for identifying a protected portion of at least one of the independent links; and a unit for restricting transmission on at least one other independent link for a subset of frequency resources associated with the protected portion.

[0573] Another aspect of this application provides a non-transitory computer-readable medium for storing computer-executable code, which includes code for: establishing connections with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) via a plurality of independent links; identifying a protected portion of at least one of the independent links; and restricting transmission on at least one other independent link for a subset of frequency resources associated with the protected portion.

[0574] In some embodiments, this application provides a method for communication, comprising: establishing a first link between a first transmit / receive point (TRP) and a user equipment (UE); transmitting a first transport block via the first link; and transmitting information via the first link to support the transmission of a second transport block via a second link established between a second TRP and the UE, wherein the first transport block is independent of the second transport block.

[0575] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication, comprising memory and a processor coupled to the memory. The processor and memory are configured to: establish a first link between a first transmit-receive point (TRP) and a user equipment (UE); transmit a first transport block via the first link; and transmit information via the first link to support the transmission of a second transport block via a second link established between a second TRP and the UE, wherein the first transport block is independent of the second transport block.

[0576] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication. The apparatus includes: a unit for establishing a first link between a first transmit / receive point (TRP) and a user equipment (UE); a unit for transmitting a first transport block via the first link; and a unit for transmitting information via the first link to support the transmission of a second transport block via a second link established between a second TRP and the UE, wherein the first transport block is independent of the second transport block.

[0577] Another aspect of this application provides a non-transitory computer-readable medium for storing computer-executable code, which includes code for: establishing a first link between a first transmit-receive point (TRP) and a user equipment (UE); transmitting a first transport block via the first link; and transmitting information via the first link to support the transmission of a second transport block via a second link established between a second TRP and the UE, wherein the first transport block is independent of the second transport block.

[0578] In some embodiments, this application provides a method for communication, comprising: establishing a first link between a first transmit-receive point (TRP) and a user equipment (UE); and transmitting channel sensing parameters of a set of independent links used by the UE to communicate with multiple TRPs via the first link.

[0579] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication, comprising a memory and a processor coupled to the memory. The processor and memory are configured to: establish a first link between a first transmit-receive point (TRP) and a user equipment (UE); and transmit channel sensing parameters of a set of independent links used by the UE to communicate with multiple TRPs via the first link.

[0580] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication. The apparatus includes: a unit for establishing a first link between a first transmit-receive point (TRP) and a user equipment (UE); and a unit for transmitting channel sensing parameters of a set of independent links used by the UE to communicate with a plurality of TRPs via the first link.

[0581] Another aspect of this application provides a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing computer-executable code, which includes code for: establishing a first link between a first transmit-receive point (TRP) and a user equipment (UE); and transmitting channel sensing parameters of a set of independent links used by the UE to communicate with a plurality of TRPs via the first link.

[0582] In some embodiments, this invention provides a method for communication, comprising: establishing a first link between a first transmit-receive point (TRP) and a user equipment (UE); and transmitting control information of a set of independent links used by the UE to communicate with a plurality of TRPs via the first link.

[0583] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication, comprising memory and a processor coupled to the memory. The processor and memory are configured to: establish a first link between a first transmit-receive point (TRP) and a user equipment (UE); and transmit control information via the first link for a set of independent links used by the UE to communicate with a plurality of TRPs.

[0584] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication. The apparatus includes: a unit for establishing a first link between a first transmit / receive point (TRP) and a user equipment (UE); and a unit for transmitting control information for a set of independent links used by the UE to communicate with a plurality of TRPs via the first link.

[0585] Another aspect of this case provides a non-transitory computer-readable medium for storing computer-executable code, which includes code for: establishing a first link between a first transmit-receive point (TRP) and a user equipment (UE); and transmitting control information via the first link for a set of independent links used by the UE to communicate with a plurality of TRPs.

[0586] In some forms, this application provides a method for communication, comprising: determining whether communication on at least two independent links used by a user device can proceed in different directions within a specific symbol time; and conducting communication on the at least two independent links based on the determination.

[0587] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication, comprising a memory and a processor coupled to the memory. The processor and memory are configured to: determine whether communication on at least two independent links used by a user device can proceed in different directions within a specific symbol time; and to conduct communication on the at least two independent links based on the determination.

[0588] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication. The apparatus includes: a unit for determining whether communication on at least two independent links used by a user equipment can occur in different directions within a specific symbol time; and a unit for performing communication on the at least two independent links based on the determination.

[0589] Another aspect of this case provides a non-transitory computer-readable medium for storing computer-executable code, including code for: determining whether communication on at least two independent links used by a user device can proceed in different directions within a specific symbolic time; and conducting communication on the at least two independent links according to the determination.

[0590] In some embodiments, this invention provides a method for communication, including: communicating with a user equipment (UE) via a first link; and transmitting via the first link an indication that the UE can communicate with a second TRP via a second link, wherein the first link is independent of the second link.

[0591] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication, comprising a memory and a processor coupled to the memory. The processor and memory are configured to: communicate with a user equipment (UE) via a first link; and transmit via the first link an indication of a second link by which the UE can communicate with a second TRP, wherein the first link is independent of the second link.

[0592] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication. The apparatus includes: a unit for communicating with a user equipment (UE) via a first link; and a unit for transmitting, via the first link, an indication of a second link by which the UE can communicate with a second TRP, wherein the first link is independent of the second link.

[0593] Another aspect of this application provides a non-transitory computer-readable medium for storing computer-executable code, which includes code for: communicating with a user equipment (UE) via a first link; and transmitting via the first link an indication of a second link by which the UE can communicate with a second TRP, wherein the first link is independent of the second link.

[0594] In some embodiments, this invention provides a method for communication, comprising: establishing a first link between a first transmit-receive point (TRP) and a user equipment (UE); and transmitting feedback information of a set of independent links used by the UE to communicate with a plurality of TRPs via a feedback channel of the first link.

[0595] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication, comprising memory and a processor coupled to the memory. The processor and memory are configured to: establish a first link between a first transmit-receive point (TRP) and a user equipment (UE); and transmit feedback information via a feedback channel of the first link for a set of independent links used by the UE to communicate with a plurality of TRPs.

[0596] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication. The apparatus includes: a unit for establishing a first link between a first transmit-receive point (TRP) and a user equipment (UE); and a unit for transmitting feedback information of a set of independent links used by the UE to communicate with a plurality of TRPs via a feedback channel of the first link.

[0597] Another aspect of this case provides a non-transitory computer-readable medium for storing computer-executable code, which includes code for: establishing a first link between a first transmit-receive point (TRP) and a user equipment (UE); and transmitting feedback information of a set of independent links used by the UE to communicate with a plurality of TRPs via a feedback channel of the first link.

[0598] In some embodiments, this invention provides a method for communication, comprising: establishing a first link between a first transmit-receive point (TRP) and a user equipment (UE); and transmitting power control information of a set of independent links used by the UE to communicate with a plurality of TRPs via the first link.

[0599] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication, comprising memory and a processor coupled to the memory. The processor and memory are configured to: establish a first link between a first transmit-receive point (TRP) and a user equipment (UE); and transmit power control information via the first link for a set of independent links used by the UE to communicate with a plurality of TRPs.

[0600] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication. The apparatus includes: a unit for establishing a first link between a first transmit-receive point (TRP) and a user equipment (UE); and a unit for transmitting power control information of a set of independent links used by the UE to communicate with a plurality of TRPs via the first link.

[0601] Another aspect of this case provides a non-transitory computer-readable medium for storing computer-executable code, which includes code for: establishing a first link between a first transmit-receive point (TRP) and a user equipment (UE); and transmitting power control information via the first link for a set of independent links used by the UE to communicate with a plurality of TRPs.

[0602] In some forms, this application provides a method for communication, comprising: determining whether uplink probes of at least two independent links used by a user equipment (UE) to communicate with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) can be transmitted concurrently; and transmitting the uplink probes on the at least two independent links according to the determination.

[0603] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication, comprising a memory and a processor coupled to the memory. The processor and memory are configured to: determine whether uplink probes of at least two independent links used by a user equipment (UE) to communicate with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) can be transmitted concurrently; and transmit the uplink probes on the at least two independent links according to the determination.

[0604] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication. The apparatus includes: a unit for determining whether uplink probes of at least two independent links used by a user equipment (UE) to communicate with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) can be transmitted concurrently; and a unit for transmitting the uplink probes on the at least two independent links according to the determination.

[0605] Another aspect of this case provides a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing computer-executable code, including code for: determining whether uplink probes of at least two independent links used by a user equipment (UE) to communicate with a plurality of transmit-receive points (TRPs) can be transmitted concurrently; and transmitting the uplink probes on the at least two independent links according to the determination.

[0606] In some embodiments, this application provides a method for communication, comprising: establishing a first link between a first transmit-receive point (TRP) and a user equipment (UE); and transmitting beam conversion information of a set of independent links used by the UE to communicate with a plurality of TRPs via the first link.

[0607] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication, comprising a memory and a processor coupled to the memory. The processor and memory are configured to: establish a first link between a first transmit-receive point (TRP) and a user equipment (UE); and transmit beam-switching information via the first link for a set of independent links used by the UE to communicate with a plurality of TRPs.

[0608] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication. The apparatus includes: a unit for establishing a first link between a first transmit-receive point (TRP) and a user equipment (UE); and a unit for transmitting beam conversion information of a set of independent links used by the UE to communicate with multiple TRPs via the first link.

[0609] Another aspect of this case provides a non-transitory computer-readable medium for storing computer-executable code, which includes code for: establishing a first link between a first transmit-receive point (TRP) and a user equipment (UE); and transmitting beam conversion information via the first link for a set of independent links used by the UE to communicate with a plurality of TRPs.

[0610] In some embodiments, this application provides a method for communication, comprising: establishing a first link between a first transmit-receive point (TRP) and a user equipment (UE); and transmitting beam recovery information of a second link used by the UE to communicate with a second TRP via the first link.

[0611] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication, comprising a memory and a processor coupled to the memory. The processor and memory are configured to: establish a first link between a first transmit-receive point (TRP) and a user equipment (UE); and transmit beam recovery information of a second link used by the UE to communicate with a second TRP via the first link.

[0612] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication. The apparatus includes: a unit for establishing a first link between a first transmit-receive point (TRP) and a user equipment (UE); and a unit for transmitting beam recovery information of a second link used by the UE to communicate with a second TRP via the first link.

[0613] Another aspect of this case provides a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing computer-executable code, the code of which is used to: establish a first link between a first transmit-receive point (TRP) and a user equipment (UE); and transmit beam recovery information of a second link used by the UE to communicate with a second TRP via the first link.

[0614] In some cases, this application provides a method for communication, including: identifying a set of independent links used by a user equipment (UE); and sending an indication to the UE based on link measurements of the set to trigger a handover event.

[0615] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication, comprising memory and a processor coupled to the memory. The processor and memory are configured to: identify a set of independent links used by a user equipment (UE); and send an indication to the UE based on the link measurements of that set to trigger a handover event.

[0616] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication. The apparatus includes: a unit for identifying a set of independent links used by a user equipment (UE); and a unit for sending an indication to the UE based on link measurements of the set to trigger a handover event.

[0617] Another aspect of this case provides a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing computer-executable code, which includes code for: identifying a set of independent links used by a user equipment (UE); and sending an indication to the UE based on the link measurements of that set to trigger a handover event.

[0618] In some embodiments, this application provides a method for communication, comprising: establishing a first link between a first transmit-receive point (TRP) and a user equipment (UE); and transmitting, via the first link, an indication of a failure of a plurality of independent links used by the UE to communicate with a plurality of TRPs.

[0619] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication, comprising a memory and a processor coupled to the memory. The processor and memory are configured to: establish a first link between a first transmit-receive point (TRP) and a user equipment (UE); and transmit, via the first link, indications of failures of a plurality of independent links used by the UE to communicate with a plurality of TRPs.

[0620] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication. The apparatus includes: a unit for establishing a first link between a first transmit-receive point (TRP) and a user equipment (UE); and a unit for transmitting, via the first link, indications of faults in a plurality of independent links used by the UE to communicate with a plurality of TRPs.

[0621] Another aspect of this case provides a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing computer-executable code, which includes code for: establishing a first link between a first transmit-receive point (TRP) and a user equipment (UE); and transmitting, via the first link, indications of failures of a plurality of independent links used by the UE to communicate with a plurality of TRPs.

[0622] In some embodiments, this application provides a method for communication, comprising: establishing a first link between a first transmit-receive point (TRP) and a user equipment (UE); identifying a protected portion of at least one independent link used by the UE to communicate with a plurality of TRPs; and restricting transmission on the first link for a subset of frequency resources associated with the protected portion.

[0623] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication, comprising a memory and a processor coupled to the memory. The processor and memory are configured to: establish a first link between a first transmit-receive point (TRP) and a user equipment (UE); identify a protected portion of at least one independent link used by the UE to communicate with a plurality of TRPs; and restrict transmission on the first link for a subset of frequency resources associated with the protected portion.

[0624] Another aspect of this application provides an apparatus configured for communication. The apparatus includes: a unit for establishing a first link between a first transmit-receive point (TRP) and a user equipment (UE); a unit for identifying a protected portion of at least one independent link used by the UE to communicate with a plurality of TRPs; and a unit for restricting transmission on the first link for a subset of frequency resources associated with the protected portion.

[0625] Another aspect of this application provides a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing computer-executable code, which includes code for: establishing a first link between a first transmit-receive point (TRP) and a user equipment (UE); identifying a protected portion of at least one independent link used by the UE to communicate with a plurality of TRPs; and restricting transmission on the first link for a subset of frequency resources associated with the protected portion. Other forms

[0626] Examples set forth herein are provided to illustrate certain concepts of this invention. Those skilled in the art to which this invention pertains will understand that these are merely illustrative in nature, and other examples may fall within the scope of this invention and the appended claims. Based on the teachings herein, those skilled in the art to which this invention pertains should recognize that the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented independently of any other embodiments, and that two or more of these embodiments can be combined in various ways. For example, any number of the embodiments set forth herein can be used to implement an apparatus or a method. Furthermore, such an apparatus or method can be implemented using structures, functions, or structures and functions other than those set forth herein, or alternative structures, functions, or structures and functions to those set forth herein.

[0627] As will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art to which this invention pertains, the various forms described herein can be extended to any suitable telecommunications system, network architecture, and communication standard. As examples, the various forms can be applied to wide area networks, peer-to-peer networks, local area networks, other suitable systems, or any combination thereof, including those described by standards that are not yet defined.

[0628] Many forms are described relating to sequences of actions performed by elements such as computing devices. It will be appreciated that the various actions described herein can be performed by specific circuitry, such as a central processing unit (CPU), graphics processing unit (GPU), digital signal processor (DSP), application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or various other types of general-purpose or special-purpose processors or circuits, via program instructions executed by one or more processors, or a combination of both. Furthermore, these sequences of actions described herein can be considered entirely embodied in any form of computer-readable storage medium containing a corresponding set of computer instructions that, when executed, will cause the associated processor to perform the functions described herein. Therefore, the various forms of this application can be embodied in many different forms, all of which are considered to be within the scope of the claimed subject matter. Moreover, for each form described herein, a corresponding form of any such form may be described herein, for example, logic "configured" to perform the described actions.

[0629] Those skilled in the art will recognize that information and signals can be represented using any of a variety of different techniques and methods. For example, data, instructions, commands, information, signals, bits, symbols, and chips that may be referenced in the foregoing description may be represented by voltage, current, electromagnetic waves, magnetic fields or particles, light fields or particles, or any combination thereof.

[0630] Furthermore, those skilled in the art will recognize that the various illustrative logic blocks, modules, circuits, and algorithm steps described in conjunction with the states disclosed herein can be implemented as electronic hardware, computer software, or a combination of both. To clearly illustrate this interchangeability between hardware and software, various illustrative components, blocks, modules, circuits, and steps have been generally described above in their functional states. Whether such functionality is implemented as hardware or software depends on the specific application and the design constraints imposed on the entire system. Those skilled in the art can implement the described functionality in different ways for each specific application, but such implementation decisions should not be construed as deviating from the scope of this invention.

[0631] One or more of the components, steps, features, and / or functions shown above can be rearranged and / or combined into a single component, step, feature, or function, or embodied in several components, steps, or functions. Additional elements, components, steps, and / or functions can also be added without departing from the novel features disclosed herein. The above-described apparatus, devices, and / or components can be configured to perform one or more of the methods, features, or steps described herein. The novel algorithms described herein can also be efficiently implemented in software and / or embedded in hardware.

[0632] It should be understood that the specific order or hierarchy of steps in the disclosed method is an illustration of an example procedure. Based on design preferences, it is understood that the specific order or hierarchy of steps in the method can be rearranged. The attached method request presents the elements of various steps in a sampling order and is not intended to be limited to the specific order or hierarchy presented, unless specifically enumerated therein.

[0633] The methods, sequences, or algorithms for describing the states disclosed herein can be directly embodied in hardware, in a software module executed by a processor, or a combination of both. The software module can reside in RAM memory, flash memory, ROM memory, EPROM memory, EEPROM memory, a register, a hard disk, a removable disk, a CD-ROM, or any other form of storage medium known in the art to which this invention pertains. An instance of the storage medium is coupled to the processor, enabling the processor to read information from and write information to the storage medium. Alternatively, the storage medium can be integrated with the processor.

[0634] The term "exemplary" is used herein to mean "serving as an example, illustration, or description." Any state described herein as "exemplary" is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other states. Similarly, the term "state" does not require that all states include the features, advantages, or modes of operation discussed.

[0635] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing specific states only and is not intended to limit those states. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Further understanding is needed; when used herein, the terms “comprising,” “including,” “containing,” or “including” specify the presence of the feature, integer, step, operation, element, or component, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, or groups thereof. Furthermore, it should be understood that the word “or” has the same meaning as the Boolean operation “OR,” that is, it includes the possibility of “any” and “both,” and is not limited to “exclusive OR” (“XOR”), unless otherwise clearly stated. It should also be understood that, unless otherwise clearly stated, the symbol “ / ” between two adjacent words has the same meaning as “or.” Furthermore, unless otherwise clearly stated, phrases such as “connected to,” “coupled to,” or “communicating with” are not limited to direct connections.

[0636] References to elements herein, such as “first,” “second,” etc., do not generally limit the number or order of these elements. Rather, these names may be used herein as a convenient way to distinguish two or more elements or instances of elements. Therefore, references to first and second elements do not imply that only two elements may be used there, or that the first element must somehow precede the second element. Furthermore, unless otherwise stated, a group of elements may include one or more elements. Additionally, the terms “at least one of a, b, or c” or “a, b, c, or any combination thereof” used in the specification or claims mean “a or b or c or any combination of these elements.” For example, this term may include a, or b, or c, or a and b, or a and c, or a and b and c, or 2a, or 2b, or 2c, or 2a and b, etc.

[0637] As used herein, the term "decision" encompasses a wide variety of actions. For example, "decision" can include calculation, processing, exporting, investigating, examining (e.g., examining in a table, database, or other data structure), ascertaining, etc. Furthermore, "decision" can include receiving (e.g., receiving information), accessing (e.g., accessing data in memory), etc. Additionally, "decision" can include resolving, selecting, choosing, establishing, etc.

[0638] Although the foregoing disclosure presents an illustrative example, it should be noted that various changes and modifications can be made to the invention without departing from the scope of the appended claims. The functions, steps, or actions of the methods described herein do not need to be performed in any particular order unless explicitly stated otherwise. Furthermore, although elements may be described or claimed in the singular, the plural is contemplated unless explicitly stated to be limited to the singular.

[0639] 100: Wireless Communication System 102: First UE 104: Second UE 106: Transmitter / Receiver Point (TRP) 108: Core Network 110: Internet Service Provider (ISP) 112: Device (D2D) Link 114:TRP 116: Multi-link signal transmission 200: Communication System 202: User Equipment (UE) 204: Transmitter / Receiver Point (TRP) 206:TRP 208: Link 210: Link 212: First TB Processing 214: Second TB processing 216: Network Entities 218: Direct Communication Link 300: Communication System 302:UE 304:TRP 306:TRP 308: A set of beams 310: A set of beams 312: A set of beams 314: First beamforming direction 316: Second beamforming direction 400: Device 402: Intermediate Frequency (IF) / Baseband Chain 404: RF chain 406: Antenna Components 408:TB program 500: Device 502: Dipole Antenna 504: Patch Antenna 600: Device 602: First antenna subarray 604: First Link 606: Second day's linear array 608: Second Link 610: Third Subarray 612: Patch Antenna 700: Communication System 702:UE 704: First TRP 706: Second TRP 708: First Link 710: Second Link 712: First Channel Sensing Function 714: Second Channel Sensing Function 716: First Channel Sensing Function 718: Second Channel Sensing Function 720: Link 800: Communication System 802:UE 804: First TRP 806: Second TRP 808: First Link 810: Second Link 812: Control Information Management Function 816: Control Information Management Function 818: Control Information Management Function 820: Link 822: First Link Control Information 900: Communication System 902:UE 904: First TRP 906: Second TRP 908: First Link 910: Second Link 912: Link Allocation Function 916: Link Allocation Function 918: Link Allocation Function 920: Link 922: First Information 924: Second Information 1000: Communication System 1002:UE 1004: First TRP 1006: Second TRP 1008: First Link 1010: Second Link 1012: Power control function 1016: Power control function 1018: Power control function 1020: Link 1022: First Information 1024: Second Information 1102:UE 1104: First TRP 1106: Second TRP 1108: First Link 1110: Second Link 1112: Channel Status Feedback (CSFB) Control Function 1116: Channel Status Feedback (CSFB) Control Function 1118: Channel Status Feedback (CSFB) Control Function 1120: Link 1122: First Information 1124: Second Information 1200: Communication System 1202:UE 1204: First TRP 1206: Second TRP 1208: First Link 1210: Second Link 1212: Beam control function 1216: Beam control function 1218: Beam control function 1220: Link 1222: First Link Beam Information 1300: Communication System 1302:UE 1304: First TRP 1306: Second TRP 1308: First Link 1310: Second Link 1312: Event control function 1316: Event control function 1318: Event control function 1320: Link 1322: First Information 1324: Second Information 1400: Device 1402: Communication Interface 1404: Storage Media 1406: User Interface 1408: Memory Device 1410: Processing Circuit 1412: Antenna 1414: Launcher 1416: Receiver 1418: Link Information 1420: Circuit / Module 1422: Circuit / module used for decision 1424: Circuits / modules used for communication 1426: Circuits / modules used for output 1428: Circuits / modules used for processing 1430: Circuit / module used for transmission 1432: Circuits / modules used for distribution 1434: Circuits / modules used for coordination 1436: Circuits / modules used for generation 1438: Circuits / modules for aggregation 1440: Code used to obtain 1442: Code used for decision-making 1444: Code used for communication 1446: Code used for output 1448: Code used for processing 1450: Code used for sending 1452: Code used for allocation 1454: Code used for coordination 1456: Code used for generation 1458: Code used for aggregation 1500: Program 1502: Square 1504: Square 1506: Square 1600: Program 1602: Square 1604: Square 1606: Square 1608: Square 1700: Program 1702: Square 1704: Square 1800: Program 1802: Square 1804: Square 1900: Program 1902: Square 1904: Square 2000: Program 2002: Square 2004: Square 2006: Square 2100: Program 2102: Square 2104: Square 2106: Square 2108: Square 2200: Program 2202: Square 2204: Square 2206: Square 2300: Program 2302: Square 2304: Square 2306: Square 2308: Square 2400: Program 2402: Square 2404: Square 2500: Program 2502: Square 2504: Square 2600: Program 2602: Square 2604: Square 2606: Square 2700: Program 2702: Square 2704: Square 2706: Square 2708: Square 2800: Device 2802: Communication Interface 2804: Storage Media 2806: User Interface 2808: Memory device 2810: Processing Circuit 2812: Antenna 2814: Launcher 2816: Receiver 2818: Link Information 2820: Circuit / module used for communication 2822: Circuit / module used for processing 2824: Circuits / modules used for building 2826: Circuit / module used for execution 2828: Circuit / module used for determination 2830: Circuit / module for conduction 2832: Circuit / module used for triggering 2834: Circuit / module used for identification 2836: Circuit / module used for transmission 2838: Code used for communication 2840: Code used for processing 2842: Code used for creation 2844: Code to be executed 2846: Code used for decision 2848: Code used for transmission 2850: Code used to trigger 2852: Code used for identification 2854: Code used for sending 2900: Program 2902: Square 2904: Square 2906: Square 3000: Program 3002: Square 3004: Square 3006: Square 3100: Program 3102: Square 3104: Square 3200: Program 3202: Square 3204: Square 3300: Program 3302: Square 3304: Square 3400: Program 3402: Square 3404: Square 3500: Program 3502: Square 3504: Square 3506: Square 3600: Program 3602: Square 3604: Square 3700: Program 3702: Square 3704: Square 3800: Program 3802: Square 3804: Square 3900: Program 3902: Square 3904: Square 4000: Program 4002: Square 4004: Square 4100: Program 4102: Square 4104: Square 4200: Program 4202: Square 4204: Square 4300: Program 4302: Square 4304: Square 4306: Square 4400: Program 4402: Square 4404: Square 4500: Program 4502: Square 4504: Square 4506: Square 4600: Program 4602: Square 4604: Square 4700: Program 4702: Square 4704: Square 4800: Program 4802: Square 4804: Square 4900: Program 4902: Square 4904: Square 5000: Program 5002: Square 5004: Square 5006: Square 5100: Program 5102: Square 5104: Square 5200: Program 5202: Square 5204: Square 5206: Square 5300: Program 5302: Square 5304: Square 5400: Program 5402: Square 5404: Square 5406: Square 5500: Program 5502: Square 5504: Square 5506: Square

[0640] Domestic storage information (please note in order of storage institution, date, and number) none Overseas storage information (please note in the order of storage country, institution, date, and number) none

Claims

1. A method for a device to communicate, comprising the steps of: concurrently communicating via a first beamforming wireless communication link established with a first transmitting / receiving point and via a second beamforming wireless communication link established with a second transmitting / receiving point; transmitting first beam information via a first control channel of the first beamforming wireless communication link established with the first transmitting / receiving point; and transmitting second beam information via a second control channel of the second beamforming wireless communication link established with the second transmitting / receiving point, wherein the first control channel is independent of the second control channel.

2. The method according to claim 1 also includes the following steps: transmitting a first transport block via the first beamforming wireless communication link; transmitting a second transport block via the second beamforming wireless communication link; and processing the first transport block independently of the second transport block.

3. According to the method of request item 2, the processing includes error handling.

4. The method according to request item 2, wherein the processing includes cyclic redundancy check (CRC) processing.

5. According to the method of request item 2, wherein: The transmission of the first transmission blocks is via a first beam; and the transmission of the second transmission blocks is via a second beam.

6. According to the method of request item 1, wherein: A first radio frequency (RF) chain using the device for communication via the first beamforming wireless communication link; and a second RF chain using the device for communication via the second beamforming wireless communication link.

7. According to the method of request item 1, wherein: Communication via the first beamforming wireless communication link is via a first antenna subarray using the device; and communication via the second beamforming wireless communication link is via a second antenna subarray using the device.

8. According to the method of request item 1, wherein: The first beamforming wireless communication link is established with the first transmit / receive point on a first carrier frequency; and the second beamforming wireless communication link is established with the second transmit / receive point on the first carrier frequency.

9. According to the method of request item 1, wherein: The first beamforming wireless communication link is established with the first transmit / receive point on a first carrier frequency; and the second beamforming wireless communication link is established with the second transmit / receive point on a second carrier frequency, which is different from the first carrier frequency.

10. A device for communication, comprising: One or more memories storing processor-executable code; and one or more processors configured to execute the processor-executable code and cause the device to: concurrently communicate via a first beamforming wireless communication link established with a first transmit / receive point and via a second beamforming wireless communication link established with a second transmit / receive point; transmit first beam information via a first control channel of the first beamforming wireless communication link established with the first transmit / receive point; and transmit second beam information via a second control channel of the second beamforming wireless communication link established with the second transmit / receive point, wherein the first control channel is independent of the second control channel.

11. The apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the one or more processors are further configured to execute processor-executable code and cause the apparatus to: transmit a first transport block via the first beamforming wireless communication link; transmit a second transport block via the second beamforming wireless communication link; and process the first transport block independently of the second transport block.

12. The apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the processing includes error handling.

13. The apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the processing includes cyclic redundancy check (CRC) processing.

14. The apparatus according to claim 11, wherein: The transmission of the first transmission blocks is via a first beam; and the transmission of the second transmission blocks is via a second beam.

15. The apparatus according to claim 10, wherein: A first radio frequency (RF) chain using the device for communication via the first beamforming wireless communication link; and a second RF chain using the device for communication via the second beamforming wireless communication link.

16. The apparatus according to claim 10, wherein: Communication via the first beamforming wireless communication link is via a first antenna subarray using the device; and communication via the second beamforming wireless communication link is via a second antenna subarray using the device.

17. A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing processor-executable code, which, when executed by one or more processors, causes the one or more processors to: communicate concurrently via a first beamforming wireless communication link established with a first transmit / receive point and via a second beamforming wireless communication link established with a second transmit / receive point; transmit first beam information via a first control channel of the first beamforming wireless communication link established with the first transmit / receive point; and transmit second beam information via a second control channel of the second beamforming wireless communication link established with the second transmit / receive point, wherein the first control channel is independent of the second control channel.

18. The non-transitory computer-readable medium according to claim 17, wherein the processor-executable code, when executed by the one or more processors, further causes the one or more processors to: transmit a first transport block via the first beamforming wireless communication link; transmit a second transport block via the second beamforming wireless communication link; and process the first transport block independently of the second transport block.

19. Non-transitory computer-readable media according to request item 18, wherein processing includes error handling.

20. The non-transitory computer-readable medium according to request item 18, wherein the processing includes cyclic redundancy check (CRC) processing.

21. The non-transitory computer-readable media according to request item 18, wherein: The transmission of the first transmission blocks is via a first beam; and the transmission of the second transmission blocks is via a second beam.

22. The non-transitory computer-readable media according to request item 17, wherein: Communication via the first beamforming wireless communication link uses a first radio frequency (RF) chain of the device; and communication via the second beamforming wireless communication link uses a second RF chain of the device.

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