Devices in a network entity and in user equipment for wireless communication, related methods and computer-readable non-transient media.

Abstract

This refers to a wireless communications system that can support beamforming to transmit and receive signals. A device operating within a wireless communications system can transmit a request to measure a beamformed reference signal. The device can also transmit a beamforming configuration that indicates one or more beamforming options for measuring the beamformed reference signal. The beamforming options may include measuring the beamformed reference signal using a directional configuration and an omnidirectional configuration. The device receiving the beamforming configuration can then form a receive beam, according to the beamforming configuration, to measure the beamformed reference signal.A device operating within a wireless communications system can determine the use of a particular beamforming option to measure a beamformed reference signal without first receiving a beamforming configuration, and can make the determination based on the signal quality on the device or the device's capabilities.

Description

1 / 72 DEVICES IN A NETWORK ENTITY AND IN EQUIPMENT OF USER FOR WIRELESS COMMUNICATION, RELATED METHODS AND NON-TRANSIENT COMPUTER-READABLE MEDIA CROSS-REFERENCES

[0001] This patent application claims priority over U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 707,901 by Nagaraja et al., entitled “Receiver Beamforming For Measurements”, filed September 18, 2017; and over U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 414,652 by Nagaraja et al., entitled “Receiver Beamforming For Measurements”, filed October 28, 2016; each of which is assigned to the same assignee. BACKGROUND

[0002] The following refers generally to wireless communication and, more specifically, to beamforming for measuring reference signals.

[0003] Wireless communication systems are widely deployed to provide various types of communication content, such as voice, video, packet data, messaging, broadcast, and so on. These systems may have the capacity to support communication with multiple users sharing available system resources (e.g., time, frequency, and power). Examples of such multiple access systems include code division multiple access (CDMA) systems, time division multiple access (TDMA) systems, frequency division multiple access (FDMA) systems, and orthogonal frequency division multiple access (OFDMA) systems.

[0004] In some examples, a wireless multiple access communication system may include multiple base stations, each supporting simultaneously Petition 870240097675, dated 11 / 14 / 2024, page 13 / 32 2 / 72 Communication for multiple communication devices, otherwise known as user equipment (UEs). In a Long Term Evolution (LTE) or LTE-Avanced (LTE-A) network, a set of one or more base stations can define an eNodeB (eNB). In other examples (e.g., in a next-generation (NR) or 5G new radio network), a wireless multiple access communication system may include multiple intelligent radio heads (RHs) communicating with multiple access node controllers (ANCs), where a set of one or more RHs, communicating with an ANC, defines a base station (e.g., an eNB). A base station may communicate with a set of UEs on downlink (DL) channels (e.g., for transmissions from a base station to a UE) and uplink (UL) channels (e.g., for transmissions from a UE to a base station).

[0005] In some instances, a wireless network may operate in the millimeter wave (mmW) spectrum. The use of mmW spectrum can result in additional attenuation, which can affect the link budget of communications. A base station operating in mmW spectrum can use beamforming techniques to increase the intensity of wireless signals (e.g., reference signals), particularly in directions to address the additional attenuation. However, to receive a beamformed signal from a base station, a UE may blindly scan in multiple directions, which can result in measurement delays and inefficient use of resources. SUMMARY

[0006] The techniques described refer to, Petition 870190036837, dated 04 / 17 / 2019, page 8 / 102 3 / 72 In general, there are methods for transmitting and receiving beamforming reference signals. A receiving device, which may be a user equipment (UE) or a base station, may have the capability to receive beamforming signals from a transmitting device using an omnidirectional or directional configuration. Similarly, a transmitting device, which may be a UE or a base station, may have the capability to transmit beamforming signals using an omnidirectional or directional configuration. Different receiver beamforming options may be signaled to the receiving device in a configuration message. In some examples, the transmitting device (e.g., a base station) may instruct the receiving device to use a particular receiver beamforming configuration to receive a particular reference signal.Alternatively, the transmitting device may provide the receiving device with triggers or thresholds, which the receiving device may use to determine which receiver beamforming pattern to use under certain conditions. The receiving device may form a receiver beamforming pattern according to the instructions or may instead override the instructions and use a different receiver beamforming pattern based on radio conditions at the receiving device or the capabilities of the receiving device.

[0007] In some examples, a receiving device can decide which receiver beam pattern to use (e.g., omnidirectional or directional) without first Petition 870190036837, dated 04 / 17 / 2019, p. 9 / 102 4 / 72 receive instructions from a transmitting device. The receiving device can evaluate the signal quality at the receiving device or the mobility of the receiving device and, consequently, choose a receiver beam pattern.

[0008] A wireless communication method is described. The method may include transmitting a request to measure a beamforming reference signal, transmitting a beamforming configuration indicating one or more beamforming options for measuring the beamforming reference signal, wherein the one or more beamforming options include an indication of a beam pattern for measuring the beamforming reference signal using a directional configuration and an omnidirectional configuration, and transmitting the beamforming reference signal.

[0009] A wireless communication apparatus is described. The apparatus may include means for transmitting a request to measure a beamforming reference signal, means for transmitting a beamforming configuration indicating one or more beamforming options for measuring the beamforming reference signal, wherein the one or more beamforming options include an indication of a beam pattern for measuring the beamforming reference signal using a directional configuration and an omnidirectional configuration, and means for transmitting the beamforming reference signal.

[0010] Another device for wireless communication is described. The device may include a processor, memory in electronic communication with the processor, and instructions. Petition 870190036837, dated 04 / 17 / 2019, page 10 / 102 5 / 72 stored in memory. The instructions may be operable to cause the processor to transmit a request to measure a beamforming reference signal, transmit a beamforming configuration indicating one or more beamforming options for measuring the beamforming reference signal, wherein the one or more beamforming options include an indication of a beam pattern for measuring the beamforming reference signal using a directional configuration and an omnidirectional configuration, and transmit the beamforming reference signal.

[0011] A non-transient computer-readable medium for wireless communication is described. The non-transient computer-readable medium may include operable instructions for causing a processor to transmit a request to measure a beamforming reference signal, transmit a beamforming configuration indicating one or more beamforming options for measuring the beamforming reference signal, wherein the one or more beamforming options include an indication of a beam pattern for measuring the beamforming reference signal using a directional configuration and an omnidirectional configuration, and transmit the beamforming reference signal.

[0012] Some examples of the non-transient computer-readable method, apparatus and means described above may additionally include processes, resources, means or instructions for conveying an indication of whether the directional configuration or the omnidirectional configuration should be used to measure the reference signal formed by beams. Petition 870190036837, dated 04 / 17 / 2019, page 11 / 102 6 / 72

[0013] In some examples of the non-transient computer-readable method, apparatus and medium described above, the indication indicates the use of the omnidirectional configuration when a signal quality, as measured, is at or above a threshold, and indicates the use of the directional configuration when the signal quality, as measured, is below the threshold.

[0014] In some examples of the non-transient computer-readable method, apparatus and medium described above, the signal quality may be based, at least in part, on a received reference signal power (RSRP), a received reference signal quality (RSRQ), a channel quality indicator (CQI), a signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) or a combination thereof.

[0015] In some examples of the non-transient computer-readable method, apparatus, and medium described above, the indication indicates a beamform for use in measuring the beamforming reference signal, wherein the beamform comprises beamwidth, array gain, beam direction, or a combination thereof. In some examples of the non-transient computer-readable method, apparatus, and medium described above, the indication indicates the use of the omnidirectional configuration when the beamforming reference signal overlaps with a reference signal from a neighboring transmitter. In some examples of the non-transient computer-readable method, apparatus, and medium described above, the indication indicates the use of both the directional and omnidirectional configurations.

[0016] In some examples of the method, device Petition 870190036837, dated 04 / 17 / 2019, page 12 / 102 7 / 72 and a non-transient computer-readable medium described above, the indication comprises a beam scan pattern comprising a reference signal repeated in a plurality of symbols to indicate the use of the omnidirectional configuration.

[0017] Some examples of the non-transient computer-readable method, apparatus and means described above may additionally include processes, resources, means or instructions for determining that a beam switching frequency is at or above a threshold, wherein the indication indicates the use of the omnidirectional configuration.

[0018] Some examples of the non-transient computer-readable method, apparatus and means described above may additionally include processes, resources, means or instructions for transmitting an activation message to activate or deactivate one or more beamforming options.

[0019] In some examples of the non-transient computer-readable method, apparatus and medium described above, the beamforming reference signal comprises a mobility reference signal (MRS), a channel state information reference signal (CSI-RS), a new radio synchronization signal (SYNC), such as a primary SYNC signal (PSS), a secondary SYNC signal (SSS), a demodulation reference signal (DMRS) or a combination thereof.

[0020] A wireless communication method is described. The method may include receiving a request to measure a beamforming reference signal, receiving a beamforming configuration that indicates Petition 870190036837, dated 04 / 17 / 2019, page 13 / 102 8 / 72 one or more beamforming options for measuring the beamforming reference signal, wherein the one or more beamforming options include measuring the beamforming reference signal using a directional configuration and an omnidirectional configuration, determining the use of the directional configuration or the omnidirectional configuration based at least in part on the beamforming configuration, and measuring the beamforming reference signal based at least in part on the determination.

[0021] An apparatus for wireless communication is described. The apparatus may include receiving a request to measure a beamforming reference signal, means for receiving a beamforming configuration indicating one or more beamforming options for measuring the beamforming reference signal, wherein the one or more beamforming options include measuring the beamforming reference signal using a directional configuration and an omnidirectional configuration, means for determining the use of the directional configuration or the omnidirectional configuration based at least in part on the beamforming configuration, and means for measuring the beamforming reference signal based at least in part on the determination.

[0022] Another apparatus for wireless communication is described. The apparatus may include a processor, memory in electronic communication with the processor, and instructions stored in memory. The instructions may be operable to cause the processor to receive a request to measure a reference signal formed by beams, Petition 870190036837, dated 04 / 17 / 2019, page 14 / 102 9 / 72 receive a beamforming configuration that indicates one or more beamforming options for measuring the beamformed reference signal, wherein the one or more beamforming options include measuring the beamformed reference signal using a directional configuration and an omnidirectional configuration, determining the use of the directional configuration or the omnidirectional configuration based at least in part on the beamforming configuration, and measuring the beamformed reference signal based at least in part on the determination.

[0023] A non-transient computer-readable means for wireless communication is described. The non-transient computer-readable means may include operable instructions for causing a processor to receive a request to measure a beamforming reference signal, receive a beamforming configuration indicating one or more beamforming options for measuring the beamforming reference signal, wherein the one or more beamforming options include measuring the beamforming reference signal using a directional configuration and an omnidirectional configuration, determining the use of the directional configuration or the omnidirectional configuration based at least in part on the beamforming configuration, and measuring the beamforming reference signal configuration at least in part on the determination.

[0024] Some examples of the non-transient computer-readable method, apparatus and medium described above may additionally include processes, resources, means or Petition 870190036837, dated 04 / 17 / 2019, page 15 / 102 10 / 72 instructions to receive an indication of whether the directional or omnidirectional configuration should be used to measure the reference signal formed by beams.

[0025] Some examples of the non-transient computer-readable method, apparatus and means described above may additionally include processes, resources, means or instructions for determining the use of the directional configuration if the indication indicates the use of the omnidirectional configuration or determining the use of the directional configuration if the indication indicates the use of the omnidirectional configuration.

[0026] Some examples of the non-transient computer-readable method, apparatus and means described above may additionally include processes, resources, means or instructions for transmitting a message indicating whether the directional configuration or the omnidirectional configuration was used to measure the beamform reference signal.

[0027] Some examples of the non-transient computer-readable method, apparatus, and means described above may additionally include processes, resources, means, or instructions for transmitting a configuration request that requests a type of reference signal beam scan that may be compatible with omnidirectional configuration.

[0028] A wireless communication method is described. The method may include receiving a request to measure a beamforming reference signal, determining a signal quality, determining the use of a directional configuration or an omnidirectional configuration to measure the beamforming reference signal with Petition 870190036837, dated 04 / 17 / 2019, page 16 / 102 11 / 72 based, at least in part, on signal quality, and measuring the reference signal formed by beams based, at least in part, on the determination.

[0029] An apparatus for wireless communication is described. The apparatus may include means for receiving a request to measure a beamforming reference signal, means for determining signal quality, means for determining the use of a directional configuration or an omnidirectional configuration for measuring the beamforming reference signal based at least in part on signal quality, and means for measuring the beamforming reference signal based at least in part on determination.

[0030] Another apparatus for wireless communication is described. The apparatus may include a processor, memory in electronic communication with the processor, and instructions stored in memory. The instructions may be operable to cause the processor to receive a request to measure a beamforming reference signal, determine a signal quality, determine the use of a directional configuration or an omnidirectional configuration to measure the beamforming reference signal based at least in part on the signal quality, and measure the beamforming reference signal based at least in part on the determination.

[0031] A non-transient computer-readable medium for wireless communication is described. The non-transient computer-readable medium may include operable instructions to cause the processor to receive a request to measure a reference signal. Petition 870190036837, dated 04 / 17 / 2019, page 17 / 102 12 / 72 formed by beams, determine a signal quality, determine the use of a directional configuration or an omnidirectional configuration to measure the beamformed reference signal based, at least in part, on the signal quality, and measure the beamformed reference signal based, at least in part, on the determination.

[0032] Some examples of the non-transient computer-readable method, apparatus, and means described above may additionally include processes, resources, means, or instructions for determining the use of the omnidirectional configuration if the signal quality may be at or above a threshold. Some examples of the non-transient computer-readable method, apparatus, and means described above may additionally include processes, resources, means, or instructions for determining the use of the directional configuration if the signal quality is below the threshold.

[0033] In some examples of the non-transient computer-readable method, apparatus and medium described above, the signal quality may be based, at least in part, on an RSRP, an RSRQ, a CQI, an SNR or a combination thereof.

[0034] Some examples of the non-transient computer-readable method, apparatus and means described above may additionally include processes, resources, means or instructions for transmitting a message indicating whether the directional configuration or the omnidirectional configuration was used to measure the reference signal formed by beams. Petition 870190036837, dated 04 / 17 / 2019, page 18 / 102 13 / 72 BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0035] Figure 1 illustrates an example of a wireless communication system that supports receiver beamforming for measurements, according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0036] Figure 2 illustrates an example of a wireless communication system that supports receiver beamforming for measurements, according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0037] Figures 3A to 3B illustrate an example of a wireless communication system that supports receiver beamforming for measurements, according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0038] Figure 4 illustrates an example of a process flow that supports receiver beamforming for measurements, according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0039] Figure 5 illustrates an example of a process flow that supports receiver beamforming for measurements, according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0040] Figures 6 to 8 show block diagrams of a device supporting receiver beamforming for measurements, according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0041] Figure 9 illustrates a block diagram of a system that includes a user equipment (UE) that supports receiver beamforming for measurements, according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0042] Figure 10 illustrates a diagram of Petition 870190036837, dated 04 / 17 / 2019, p. 19 / 102 14 / 72 blocks of a system that includes a base station supporting receiver beamforming for measurements, according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0043] Figures 11 to 13 illustrate methods for forming receiver beams for measurements, according to aspects of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0044] A wireless communications system can be configured to operate using millimeter wave (mmW) spectrum, and devices within the system can send and receive directional signals formed by beams. For example, a base station can use hybrid beamforming to create a narrow beam pattern to transmit data or control information to a user equipment (UE). A base station can monitor active beam conditions by sending reference signals (e.g., mobility reference signals (MRS)) to a UE, and request that the UE measure the reference signals and provide feedback. However, if the UE is unaware of the direction from which the reference signal is being sent, the UE may blindly scan in multiple directions to find the reference signal, which can cause measurement latency and inefficient resource use.

[0045] According to aspects of the present disclosure, the base station may transmit a configuration or instructions to assist the UE in determining how to configure a receiver beam to receive and measure reference signals sent from a base station. For example, a base station may instruct a UE to use a Petition 870190036837, dated 04 / 17 / 2019, page 20 / 102 15 / 72 Omnidirectional or directional beamforming configuration for measuring reference signals. Additionally or alternatively, the base station may provide triggers or thresholds for the UE to use to determine which receiver beamforming configuration to use under certain conditions. In some examples, a UE may determine which receiver beamforming configuration to use without first receiving instructions from a base station. For example, a UE may determine the use of an omnidirectional or directional beamforming configuration to measure a reference signal based on conditions at the UE or UE capabilities.

[0046] Techniques for transmitting configuration information, triggers, or thresholds to assist a UE in forming a receiver beam pattern can also be applied to uplink (UL) transmissions of reference signals from a UE to a base station. For example, a base station may configure or instruct a UE to use a particular transmission beam pattern (e.g., omnidirectional or directional) to transmit a reference signal to a base station. In some instances, the UE may determine which transmission beam pattern to use based on conditions on the UE or the UE's capabilities.

[0047] The aspects of the disclosure are initially described in the context of various wireless communication systems. The aspects of the disclosure are further illustrated and described with reference to apparatus diagrams, system diagrams, and flowcharts that relate to receiver beamforming for Petition 870190036837, dated 04 / 17 / 2019, page 21 / 102 16 / 72 measurements.

[0048] Figure 1 illustrates an example of a 100 wireless communications system, according to various aspects of the present disclosure. The 100 wireless communications system includes 105 base stations, 115 UEs, and a 130 core network. In some examples, the 100 wireless communications system may be an LTE (or LTE Advanced) network or a New Radio (NR) network. In some cases, the 100 wireless communications system may support advanced broadband communications, ultra-reliable (i.e., critical) communications, low-latency communications, and low-cost communications and low-complexity devices. The 100 wireless communications system may support communication using beamforming signals, and the devices (e.g., 115 UEs or 105 base stations) may employ techniques to configure the receiver beam pattern to efficiently receive and measure reference signals.

[0049] Base stations 105 can communicate wirelessly with UEs 115 through one or more base station antennas. Each base station 105 can provide communication coverage for a respective geographic coverage area 110. The communication links 125 shown in the wireless communication system 100 can include UL transmissions from a UE 115 to a base station 105, or downlink (DL) transmissions from a base station 105 to a UE 115. Information and control data can be multiplexed onto an uplink channel or downlink channel, according to various techniques. The information Petition 870190036837, dated 04 / 17 / 2019, page 22 / 102 17 / 72 and control data can be multiplexed onto a downlink channel, for example, using time-division multiplexing (TDM) techniques, frequency-division multiplexing (FDM) techniques, or hybrid TDM-FDM techniques. In some examples, the control information transmitted during a transmission time interval (TTI) of a downlink channel can be distributed among different control regions in a cascading manner (e.g., between a common control region and one or more UE-specific control regions).

[0050] UEs 115 can be dispersed throughout the wireless communications system 100, and each UE 115 can be stationary or mobile. A UE 115 may also be called a mobile station, a subscriber station, a mobile unit, a subscriber unit, a wireless unit, a remote unit, a mobile device, a wireless device, a wireless communications device, a remote device, a mobile subscriber station, an access terminal, a mobile terminal, a wireless terminal, a remote terminal, a handset, a user agent, a mobile client, a client, or some other suitable terminology.A UE 115 can also be a mobile phone, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a wireless modem, a wireless communication device, a portable device, a tablet computer, a laptop computer, a cordless phone, a personal electronic device, a handheld device, a personal computer, a wireless local area network (WLL) station, an Internet of Things (IoT) device, or an Internet of devices. Petition 870190036837, dated 04 / 17 / 2019, page 23 / 102 18 / 72 all IoE), a machine-type communication device (MTC), a household appliance, an automobile or similar.

[0051] Base stations 105 can communicate with the main network 130 and with each other. For example, base stations 105 can interface with the main network 130 via return transport channel links 132 (e.g., Si, etc.). Base stations 105 can communicate with each other via return transport channel links 134 (e.g., X2, etc.) both directly and indirectly (e.g., via the main network 130). Base stations 105 can perform radio configuration and programming for communication with UEs 115, or they can operate under the control of a base station controller (not shown). In some examples, base stations 105 can be macrocells, small cells, access points, or similar. Base stations 105 can also be called eNodeBs (eNBs) 105.

[0052] A base station 105 can be connected via an S1 interface to the main network 130. The main network can be an evolved packet core (EPC), which can include at least one mobility management entity (MME), at least one server communication port (S-GW), and at least one packet data network communication port (P-GW). The MME 162 can be the control node that processes signaling between UEs 115 and EPC 160. All user internet protocol (IP) packets can be transferred through the S-GW, which can be properly connected to the P-GW. The P-GW can provide IP address allocation as well as other functions. The P-GW can be connected to network operator IP services. Petition 870190036837, dated 04 / 17 / 2019, page 24 / 102 19 / 72 IP services from 420 operators may include the internet, intranet, an IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS), and a Packet-Switched Continuous Transmission Service (PSS).

[0053] The main network 130 can provide user authentication, access authorization, tracking, IP connectivity, and other access, routing, or mobility functions. At least some of the network devices, such as the base station 105, may include subcomponents, such as an access network entity, which may be an example of an access node controller (ANC). Each access network entity can communicate with multiple UEs 115 through several other network transmission entities, each of which may be an example of a smart radio head or a transmit / receive point (TRP). In some configurations, several functions of each access network entity or base station 105 may be distributed across multiple network devices (e.g., radio heads and access network controllers) or consolidated into a single network device (e.g., a base station 105).

[0054] The 100 wireless communications system can operate in an ultra-high frequency (UHF) region using frequency bands from 700 MHz to 2,600 MHz (2.6 GHz), although in some cases WLAN networks can use frequencies as high as 4 GHz. This region may also be known as the decimeter band, since the wavelengths are in the range of approximately one decimeter to one meter in length. UHF waves can propagate primarily by line of sight, and can be Petition 870190036837, dated 04 / 17 / 2019, page 25 / 102 20 / 72 blocked by buildings and environmental features. However, the waves can penetrate walls sufficiently to provide service to UEs 115 located internally. UHF wave transmission is characterized by small antennas and a shorter range (e.g., less than 100 km) compared to transmission using lower frequencies (and longer wavelengths) of the high-frequency (HF) or very high-frequency (VHF) portion of the spectrum. In some cases, the wireless communication system 100 may also use extremely high-frequency (EHF) portions of the spectrum (e.g., 30 GHz to 300 GHz). This region may also be known as the millimeter band (e.g., mmW spectrum), since the wavelengths are in the range of approximately one millimeter to one centimeter in length. Thus, EHF antennas can be even smaller and more closely spaced than UHF antennas.In some cases, this can facilitate the use of antenna arrays within a UE 115 (e.g., for directional beamforming). However, EHF transmissions may be subject to even greater atmospheric attenuation and a shorter bandwidth than UHF transmissions.

[0055] Thus, the 100 wireless communications system can support mmW communications between 115 UEs and 105 base stations. Devices operating in mmW or EHF bands can have multiple antennas to enable beamforming. That is, a 105 base station can use multiple antennas or antenna arrays to conduct beamforming operations for directional communications with a 115 UE. Directional communications Petition 870190036837, dated 04 / 17 / 2019, page 26 / 102 21 / 72 can be called beamforming or beamforming signals. Beamforming (which can also be called spatial filtering or directional transmission) is a signal processing technique that can be used in a transmitter (e.g., a 105 base station) to shape and / or direct a total antenna beam toward a target receiver (e.g., a UE 115). In some cases, beamforming can combine analog and digital techniques, and may be called hybrid beamforming. Hybrid beamforming can support narrow beam patterns, thereby optimizing the link budget or signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) in a wireless system. This can be achieved by combining elements in an antenna array such that signals transmitted at particular angles experience constructive interference while others experience destructive interference.

[0056] Multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) wireless systems use a transmission scheme between a transmitter (e.g., a base station) and a receiver (e.g., a UE), where both the transmitter and receiver are equipped with multiple antennas. Some portions of the wireless communications system 100 may use beamforming. For example, base station 105 may have an antenna array with multiple rows and columns of antenna ports that base station 105 may use for beamforming in its communication with UE 115. Signals may be transmitted multiple times in different directions (e.g., each transmission may be beamformed differently). An mmW receiver Petition 870190036837, dated 04 / 17 / 2019, page 27 / 102 22 / 72 (e.g., a UE 115) can attempt multiple beams (e.g., antenna subarrays) while receiving signals from a transmitter, such as reference or synchronization signals.

[0057] In some cases, the antennas of a base station 105 or UE 115 may be located within one or more antenna arrays, which may support beamforming or MIMO operation. One or more base station antennas or antenna arrays may be placed in an antenna array, such as an antenna tower. In some cases, the antennas or antenna arrays associated with a base station 105 may be located in various geographical locations. A base station 105 may use multiple antennas or antenna arrays to conduct beamforming operations for directional communications with a UE 115.

[0058] In some cases, a directional beam used for beamformed communications may be called an active beam or a server beam. An active beam may be a base station and a pair of UE beams carrying control channels and data channels, such as physical downlink shared channel (PDSCH), physical downlink control channel (PDCCH), physical uplink shared channel (PUSCH), and physical uplink control channel (PUCCH). In some cases, an active beam may be altered or refined based on channel conditions to increase link quality. In addition to refining active beams, candidate beams (e.g., alternative beams to the currently active beam) may be measured to determine if a Petition 870190036837, dated 04 / 17 / 2019, p. 28 / 102 23 / 72 beam keying can improve link quality.

[0059] A device within the wireless communications system 100 (e.g., a base station 105) can monitor active or candidate beams using beam measurements and feedback. For example, a base station 105 can request that a particular UE 115 provide measurement feedback of a reference signal (e.g., an MRS, a channel state information reference signal (CSI-RS), or a synchronization signal (SYNC)) when sending a measurement request to UE 115. UE 115 can then measure the reference signal and provide feedback to base station 105 for use in beam selection or refinement. This process can also be reversed, so that UE 115 sends a reference signal to a base station 105, and base station 105 provides feedback information to UE 115.In both cases, when using beamformed communications, a device receiving a reference signal may not be aware of the direction from which the reference signal is being sent. Without an indication of how to form a receiver beam to measure the reference signal, a receiving device may choose to use a receiver beam pattern that incurs mediation latency or otherwise use resources inefficiently.

[0060] According to aspects of the disclosure, a base station 105 can transmit a request to a UE 115 to measure a beamforming reference signal. The base station 105 can also transmit a beamforming configuration indicating one or more options of Petition 870190036837, dated 04 / 17 / 2019, page 29 / 102 24 / 72 beamforming for UE 115 to use for receiving and measuring the reference signal. Beamforming options may include using an omnidirectional configuration to receive the reference signal or using a directional configuration to receive the reference signal. In some instances, base station 105 may explicitly indicate which standard beamforming receiver to use for measuring the reference signal.

[0061] Additionally or alternatively, a base station 105 may indicate certain triggers for the UE 115 to use to determine which receiver beam pattern to employ. The UE 115 may form a receiver beam pattern according to the indications sent from base station 105, or it may instead choose to use a different beam pattern based on conditions on the UE 115 or certain capabilities of the UE 115. By signaling to the UE 115 which beam pattern to use under certain conditions to measure a reference signal from base station 105, base station 105 may assist the UE 115 in choosing a receiver beam pattern that reduces measurement latency or otherwise increases resource utilization efficiency within the wireless communications system 100.

[0062] Figure 2 illustrates an example of a 200 wireless communication system that supports beamforming for measurements, according to aspects of the present disclosure. The 200 wireless communication system may include a UE 115-a and a base station 105-a, which may be examples of the UE 115 and base station 105 described with reference to Figure 1. The UE 115-a and base station 105-a may be Petition 870190036837, dated 04 / 17 / 2019, p. 30 / 102 25 / 72 communicate using beamforming (e.g., directional communications) and can operate using mmW spectrum, for example. The 200 wireless communication system illustrates aspects of beamforming transmission options between base station 105-a and UE 115-a for measurement or reference signal transmission.

[0063] As discussed above, when operating in mmW spectrum, wireless devices can employ signal processing techniques, such as beamforming, to combine energy coherently and overcome path losses. In some cases, the 105-a base station can use one or more 205 beams for transmission and / or reception. The 205 beams can be transmitted in a conformal or directional manner, where each 205 beam is transmitted in a different direction or in a sweep pattern. For example, the 205-a beam can be transmitted in a first direction or shape, the 205-b beam can be transmitted in a second direction or shape, and the 205-c beam can be transmitted in a third direction or shape. Additionally, the UE 115-a can use one or more directional 210 beams for transmission and / or reception.

[0064] A base station 105-a can select a particular beam 205 (e.g., 205-b) to communicate data or control information with UE 115-a. Similarly, UE 115-a can select a particular beam 210 (e.g., 210-b) to communicate data or control information with base station 105-a. A pair of beams used for communication (e.g., beams 205-b and 210-b) can be called an active beam. Furthermore, the beam pattern used to transmit data can be... Petition 870190036837, dated 04 / 17 / 2019, page 31 / 102 26 / 72 is called a transmitter beam pattern, and the beam pattern used to receive data can be called a receiver beam pattern.

[0065] In some cases, base station 105-a may monitor beams to assess the quality of the currently active beam or to evaluate other candidate beams. To monitor an active beam, base station 105-a may request measurements or feedback from UE 115-a. For example, base station 105-a may monitor active beams using signal measurements, such as MRS, CSI-RS, or SYNC signals. To receive feedback from a reference signal, base station 105-a may first send a measurement request to UE 115-a. Upon receiving the measurement request, UE 115-a may form a directional receiver beam pattern or may begin scanning to locate the reference signal.

[0066] To assist UE 115-a in forming a receiver beamforming pattern to measure the reference signal, base station 105-a may transmit one or more receive beamforming options that UE 115a can use to measure the reference signals associated with beams 205 from base station 105-a, or a neighboring base station 105 (not shown). Beamforming options may include receiving and measuring the reference signals using an omnidirectional configuration or a directional configuration. A directional beamforming pattern may refer to a configuration in which UE 115-a selects a particular beam direction or some other specific beam parameter to transmit or Petition 870190036837, dated 04 / 17 / 2019, p. 32 / 102 27 / 72 receive a reference signal (e.g., select beam 210-b instead of beam 210-a or beam 210-c). An omnidirectional beam pattern may refer to a configuration in which UE 115-a uses all directions (simultaneously or through a sweeping pattern) to transmit or receive a reference signal. Base station 105-a may also transmit one or more transmission beamforming options (e.g., directional or omnidirectional) that UE 115-a can use to form a transmission beam pattern to transmit a reference signal to base station 105-a.

[0067] In some instances, base station 105a may transmit beamforming options in a configuration message, and the message may be transmitted as part of a control message (e.g., Layer 1 / Layer 2 / Layer 3 control message). The configuration message may be sent to UE 115-a during initial call setup (e.g., using RRC signaling), or it may be broadcast to UE 115-a via system information, or it may otherwise be transmitted to UE 115-a. Furthermore, beamforming options may be enabled or disabled over time by base station 105-a via control messages.

[0068] In some examples, base station 105a can coordinate overlapping transmissions of reference signals between base station 105-ae and neighboring base stations 105 (for example, as shown in Figure 1). For example, base station 105-a can instruct UE 115-aa to use a particular beamforming configuration. Petition 870190036837, dated 04 / 17 / 2019, page 33 / 102 28 / 72 to measure reference signals from base station 105-a (e.g., from the originating base station 105a), and may also instruct UE 115-aa to use the same or different beamforming configurations to measure reference signals from neighboring base stations 105. In some examples, base station 105-a may indicate that UE 115-a uses a specific beamforming pattern for receiving or transmitting reference signals to a specific cell or set of neighboring cells (e.g., a server cell).

[0069] In some instances, base station 105a may instruct UE 115-aa to use a specific receive or transmit beam pattern to measure or transmit a reference signal (e.g., instruct UE 115-aa to select beam 210-b). Base station 105-a may send the instructions or otherwise indicate the selection to UE 115-a along with the configuration message or as a separate message (e.g., via a power-up message). In some cases, base station 105-a may provide specific beamforming parameters for UE 115-a to use to form a receive or transmit beam pattern to measure or transmit reference signals. For example, base station 105-a may specify a beamform, which may include a width, an array gain, a beam direction, or a combination of these parameters for UE 115-a to use.In some examples, the parameters of beams 210 (e.g., beam 210-b) can be specified as a preferred reception direction that corresponds to a particular direction of a transmission beam 205 (e.g., Petition 870190036837, dated 04 / 17 / 2019, p. 34 / 102 29 / 72 beam 205-b), between the directions in which a specified reference signal (e.g., a SYNC signal) is beam-swept. In some examples, base station 105-a may configure or indicate to UE 115-a a choice of beamforming pattern to receive or transmit one or more reference signals in one or more symbols.

[0070] In some instances, base station 105a may provide conditional parameters (e.g., triggers or thresholds) for UE 115-a to use when selecting a receive or transmit beam pattern. Triggers or thresholds may also be employed at base station 105-a to determine when a message should be sent to UE 115-a indicating which receiver or transmitter beam pattern to use for a particular reference signal. For example, base station 105-a may indicate that UE 115-a should use a directional beam for measurement if the signal quality (or some other channel quality measurement) at UE 115-a is below a threshold and use an omnidirectional configuration if the signal quality at UE 115-a is at or above the threshold.Signal quality can be based on a received reference signal power (RSRP), a received reference signal quality (RSRQ), a channel quality indicator (CQI), a signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), or a combination thereof. For example, base station 105-a may indicate that UE 115-a should use a directional beam for measurement if the signal quality at UE 115-a measured while using an omnidirectional or directional configuration is below a threshold. In other cases, base station 105-a may indicate that UE 115-a should use an omnidirectional beam for measurement if... Petition 870190036837, dated 04 / 17 / 2019, p. 35 / 102 30 / 72 signal quality on UE 115-a measured during the use of an omnidirectional configuration or a directional configuration is at or above a threshold. In some cases, base station 105-a may indicate that UE 115-a uses a combination of omnidirectional and directional beams for measurement.

[0071] In some instances, base station 105a may use UL measurements (e.g., probe reference signal (SRS) preamble or random access channel (RACH)) as a trigger to instruct UE 115-aa to use a particular beamforming pattern (e.g., omnidirectional or directional) to receive or transmit a reference signal. Additionally, base station 105-a may also use measurement reports from previous signals, such as beam reference signal (BRS), MRS, or CSIRS, as an indication trigger for UE 115-a to use a particular beamforming option.

[0072] In some instances, base station 105a may use the beam switching frequency between base station 105-a and UE 115-a as a trigger to indicate a particular beam pattern to UE 115-a. For example, the base station may determine that the beam switching frequency to UE 115-a exceeds a threshold (e.g., when UE 115-a is in motion), and may subsequently configure UE 115-a to use an omnidirectional configuration. Base station 105-a may also use another indication that UE 115-a is in motion to trigger UE 115-a to use an omnidirectional configuration.

[0073] In some examples, the choice of pattern Petition 870190036837, dated 04 / 17 / 2019, p. 36 / 102 The 31 / 72 beam sweep used by base station 105-a can serve as a trigger for base station 105-a to indicate a particular receiver beam pattern. For example, base station 105-a can know that it is sending a different beam on each symbol (e.g., on each OFDM symbol). This pattern can trigger base station 105-a to configure, or otherwise instruct UE 115-aa to use an omnidirectional configuration.

[0074] After receiving a beamforming configuration or beamforming instructions from base station 105-a, UE 115-a can decide whether or not to form its receive or transmit beam pattern accordingly. The decision to conform to base station 105-a may be based, for example, on radio frequency (RF) conditions at the time or on the capabilities of UE 115-a. For example, base station 105-a may indicate that UE 115-a should use an omnidirectional configuration for measurements, but the radio conditions on UE 115-a may be unsatisfactory, so UE 115-a decides to use an alternative measurement mode (e.g., directional beams). In another example, even if base station 105-a configures or instructs UE 115-aa to use directional beamforming, UE 115-a may not have the capability to comply, and may instead choose to use omnidirectional beamforming.In some instances, UE 115-a may explicitly indicate its beamforming pattern choice for base station 105-a. Additionally, in some cases, UE 115-a may use beam state measurements to trigger an event, such as indicating that a neighboring cell exceeds the current cell by a deviation. Petition 870190036837, dated 04 / 17 / 2019, p. 37 / 102 32 / 72 (e.g., LTE Event A3).

[0075] In some instances, UE 115-a may explicitly request a particular reference signal transmission type (e.g., a specific MRS beam sweep type) that is best suited for a particular receiver beamforming configuration (e.g., omnidirectional) to reduce latency. For example, base station 105-ae a second base station 105 may transmit an MRS on the same symbol, which can be measured by an omnidirectional beam.

[0076] In some instances, UE 115-a may not receive a beamforming configuration from base station 105-a. In such cases, UE 115-a may decide on the viable option for measurement reporting based on one or more metrics (e.g., signal quality). For example, UE 115-a may use a directional beam for measurements if the signal quality is below a threshold, and an omnidirectional beam if the signal quality is at or above the threshold. Similarly to that described above, UE 115-a may decide to use a directional beam for measurement if the signal quality on UE 115-a measured while using an omnidirectional or directional configuration is below a threshold. In other cases, UE 115-a may decide to use an omnidirectional beam for measurement if the signal quality on UE 115-a measured while using an omnidirectional or directional configuration is at or above a threshold.In addition, the UE 115-a can occasionally use both omnidirectional and directional beams for measurement reporting. In some cases, the UE 115-a... Petition 870190036837, dated 04 / 17 / 2019, p. 38 / 102 33 / 72 may indicate the choice of UE signals formed by beams 205 in their measurement reports.

[0077] In some other cases, the beam option used by UE 115-a may be based on a previous indication by base station 105-a. For example, if base station 105-a has previously indicated that UE 115-a should use omnidirectional beams (for example, to measure a report from a plurality of 205 beams from a plurality of 105 base stations, or if UE 115-a is mobile, or due to frequent beam switching) UE 115-a may use an omnidirectional beam.

[0078] In addition, as described throughout the examples above, beamforming techniques (and techniques for configuring, indicating, and triggering the different beamforming options) can also be employed to form transmission beam patterns for transmitting UL reference signals from UE 115-a to base station 105-a.

[0079] Figure 3A illustrates an example of a 301 wireless communication system that supports beamforming for measurements, according to aspects of the present disclosure. The 301 wireless communication may include a UE 115-b and a base station 105b, which may be examples of the UE 115 and base station 105 described with reference to Figure 1 and Figure 2. The UE 115-b and base station 105-b may communicate using beamforming and may operate using mmW spectrum, for example. For example, base station 105b may transmit and receive signals (e.g., reference signals) using a directional beam 305-a. In this example, the UE 115-b may use a beamforming pattern. Petition 870190036837, dated 04 / 17 / 2019, p. 39 / 102 34 / 72 omnidirectional 310-a for transmission or reception or reference signals with base station 105-b.

[0080] In the 301 wireless communication system, base station 105-b can indicate that UE 115-a uses an omnidirectional configuration to measure reference signals associated with beam 305-a if the signal quality is at or above a threshold. Signal quality can be based on RSRP, RSRQ, CQI, SNR, or a combination thereof. The omnidirectional beamforming option can include receiving and measuring the reference signals associated with beam 305-a using an omnidirectional beamforming pattern 310-a (e.g., using all directions simultaneously or through a sweeping pattern). In some cases, base station 105-b can transmit the omnidirectional beamforming option in a configuration message, which can be transmitted as part of a control message (e.g., Layer 1 / Layer 2 / Layer 3 control message).

[0081] In some instances, the choice of beam sweep pattern used by base station 105-b may serve as a trigger to indicate a particular receiver beam pattern on UE 115-b. For example, base station 105-b may know that it is sending a different beam on each symbol (e.g., on each OFDM symbol). This pattern may trigger base station 105-b to configure or otherwise instruct UE 115-b to use the omnidirectional beam pattern 310-a to receive a reference signal. In some other cases, base station 105-b may determine that the beam switching frequency for UE 115-b exceeds a limit (e.g., when UE Petition 870190036837, dated 04 / 17 / 2019, p. 40 / 102 35 / 72 115-b is in motion), and can subsequently configure the UE 115-b to use the 310-a omnidirectional beam pattern.

[0082] Upon receiving a beamforming configuration from base station 105-b, UE 115-b may have the autonomy to decide whether or not to report measurements on the configuration, based, for example, on RF conditions at the time or UE 115-b capabilities. For example, in some cases, UE 115-b may determine that it is mobile and explicitly request measurements for a reference signal (e.g., MRS) more suitable for omnidirectional mode to reduce latency. In one example, the first base station 105-b and a second base station 105-b may transmit MRS on the same symbol, which can be measured by omnidirectional beam 305.

[0083] In some instances, UE 115-a may not receive a beamforming configuration or may otherwise not be instructed by base station 105-ba to use a particular beamforming pattern for reference signal measurement. In this case, UE 115-b may decide which beamforming option to use for measurement reporting based on one or more metrics (e.g., signal quality). For example, UE 115-b may use a directional beam for measurements if the signal quality is below a threshold, and the omnidirectional beam pattern 310-a if the signal quality is at or above the threshold.

[0084] In some other cases, the beam option used by UE 115-b may be based on a previous indication via the 105-b base station. For example, if the Petition 870190036837, dated 04 / 17 / 2019, p. 41 / 102 36 / 72 base station 105-b previously indicated that UE 115-b uses omnidirectional beam pattern 310-a; UE 115-b may use omnidirectional beam pattern 310-a for subsequent reference signal measurements. In some cases, UE 115-b may indicate to base station 105-b the chosen reference measurement mode, in addition to the measurements.

[0085] In addition, in some cases, the beamforming techniques described above can also be deployed in the context of forming a UL beam pattern to transmit a reference signal from UE 115-b. For example, UE 115-b can use the omnidirectional beam pattern 310-a to transmit UL reference signals if configured or instructed by base station 105-b. In some instances, UE 115-b can autonomously decide to use the omnidirectional beam pattern 310-a for UL transmissions based on the signal quality on UE 115-b or UE 115-b capabilities.

[0086] Figure 3B illustrates an example of a 302 wireless communications system that supports beamforming for measurements, according to aspects of the present disclosure. The 302 wireless communications system may include a UE 115-ce and a base station 105-c, which may be examples of the UE 115 and base station 105 described with reference to Figure 1, Figure 2, or Figure 3A. The UE 115-ce and base station 105-c may communicate using beamformed communications and may operate using mmW spectrum, for example. For example, the base station 105-c may transmit a reference signal to the UE 115c using beamforming. In this example, the UE 115-c may use a directional beam pattern (e.g., select the Petition 870190036837, dated 04 / 17 / 2019, p. 42 / 102 37 / 72 beam 310-c) for transmission or reception or reference signals with base station 105-b.

[0087] Base station 105-c may indicate that UE 115-c use a directional beamforming option to measure reference signals if the signal quality (e.g., RSRP, RSRQ, CQI, SNR, etc.) on UE 115-c is below a threshold. In some cases, base station 105-c may transmit the directional beamforming option in a configuration message, and the message may be transmitted as part of a control message (e.g., Layer 1 / Layer 2 / Layer 3 control message). In some other cases, base station 105-c may use these control messages to activate or update the beamforming option.

[0088] In one aspect, the 105-c base station can provide specific directional beamforming parameters for the UE 115-c to use to form its directional receiver beam pattern. For example, the 105-c base station can specify a beamform, which may include a width, an array gain, a beam direction, or a combination of these parameters for the UE 115-c to use to form the 310-c receiver beam. In one example, the standard directional beam parameters might be specified as a preferred reception direction that corresponds to a particular direction of the 305-b transmission beam, between the directions in which a specified reference signal (e.g., a SYNC signal) is beam-swept. In some cases, the 310-c beam is aligned with or paired with the 305-b beam.

[0089] In addition, in some cases, the Petition 870190036837, dated 04 / 17 / 2019, p. 43 / 102 38 / 72 The beamforming techniques described above can also be deployed in the context of forming a UL beam pattern to transmit a reference signal from UE 115-c. For example, UE 115-c can use the directional beam pattern (e.g., select beam 310-c) to transmit UL reference signals if configured or instructed by base station 105-c. In some instances, UE 115-c can autonomously decide to use the directional beam pattern for UL transmissions based on signal quality on UE 115-c or UE 115-c capabilities.

[0090] Figure 4 illustrates an example of a 400 process flow for receiver beamforming for measurements, according to aspects of the present disclosure. The process illustrated by the 400 process flow can be implemented by a UE 115-d of a 105-d base station, which can be examples of a UE 115 and a base station described with reference to Figures 1 to 3. In some examples, the process illustrated by the 400 flow diagram can be implemented in a wireless system employing mmW communications.

[0091] In step 405, a connection can be established between UE 115-d and base station 105-d. Establishing the connection may include performing random access procedures and / or transmitting RRC signaling. Base station 105-d or UE 115-d can determine a connection signal quality. In some cases, the signal quality may be based on an RSRP, an RSRQ, a CQI, an SNR, or a combination thereof.

[0092] In step 410, base station 105-d can transmit a request to UE 115-d to measure one or Petition 870190036837, dated 04 / 17 / 2019, p. 44 / 102 39 / 72 plus beamforming reference signals. Beamforming reference signals may include an MRS, CSI-RS, SYNC signal, such as an NR-SS, a PSS, an SSS, a DMRS, or a combination thereof.

[0093] In step 415, base station 105-d can indicate to UE 115-d one or more beamforming options (e.g., omnidirectional or directional) for UE 115-d to use to measure the beamformed reference signal(s) from step 410. In some cases, the beamforming options can be sent in a configuration message.

[0094] As discussed with reference to Figures 2 and 3, base station 105-d can instruct UE 115-d to use a particular receiver beamforming pattern for reference signal measurement, and the instructions can be sent via the configuration message or via a separate message. The beamforming configuration can be based on the signal quality at UE 115-d. For example, base station 105-d can indicate that UE 115-d uses an omnidirectional configuration when the signal quality is at or above a threshold, and a directional configuration when the signal quality is below the threshold.

[0095] In some instances, the reference signal formed by beams from base station 105-d may overlap with the reference signal formed by beams from another nearby base station 105, or base station 105-d may determine that UE 115-d is mobile. Base station 105-d may then indicate that UE 115-d uses an omnidirectional configuration. Petition 870190036837, dated 04 / 17 / 2019, p. 45 / 102 40 / 72

[0096] In some directional configuration cases, the 105-d base station may additionally indicate a beamform comprising a beamwidth, an array gain, a beam direction, or a combination thereof, which the UE 115-d uses to measure the beamform reference signal.

[0097] In addition, in some cases, base station 105-d may indicate that UE 115-d uses both directional and omnidirectional configurations to receive and measure beamforming reference signals. In some other cases, base station 105-d may transmit a message to UE 115-d to enable or disable one or more of the beamforming options.

[0098] In step 420, the UE 115-d can measure and determine its received signal quality. In some cases, signal quality may be based on an RSRP, an RSRQ, a CQI, an SNR, or a combination thereof. As described with reference to step 405, signal quality can be measured at other times during the process flow, such as during connection establishment. Furthermore, as described with reference to Figures 2 and 3, the signal quality measurement step (or other UE 115-d characteristics, such as beam switching frequency) can trigger the base station 105-d to send a message indicating which receiver beamforming pattern to use for the reference signal measurement.

[0099] In step 425, the UE 115-d can determine a beamforming configuration to measure and receive reference signals formed by beams a Petition 870190036837, dated 04 / 17 / 2019, page 46 / 102 41 / 72 from base station 105-d, based at least in part on the beamforming configuration received in step 420 and / or signal quality measured in step 425.

[0100] At stage 430, base station 105-d can transmit the beamform reference signal to UE 115-d.

[0101] In step 435, the UE 115-d can measure the reference signals formed by beams, based at least in part on the receiver beamforming configuration determined in step 425.

[0102] In step 440, UE 115-d can transmit a measurement report to base station 105d based on the received reference signal. In step 445, UE 115-d can indicate to base station 105-da the beamforming configuration used to receive and measure the beamformed signals.

[0103] In some instances, the determined beam configuration can also be used for UL reference signal transmissions from UE 115-d. For example, in step 415, base station 105-d can send an indication of which transmission beam pattern (e.g., omnidirectional or directional) to use for UL reference signal transmissions.

[0104] Figure 5 illustrates an example of a 500 process flow for receiver beamforming for measurements, according to aspects of the present disclosure. The process illustrated by the 500 process flow can be implemented by a UE 115-ee and a base station 105-e, which can be examples of a UE 115 and a base station described with reference to Figures 1 to 3. In some Petition 870190036837, dated 04 / 17 / 2019, page 47 / 102 42 / 72 examples, the process illustrated by flow diagram 500 can be implemented in a wireless system that employs mmW communications.

[0105] In step 505, a connection can be established between UE 115-eea base station 105-e. Establishing the connection may include performing random access procedures and / or transmitting RRC signaling.

[0106] In step 510, base station 105-e can transmit a request to UE 115-e to measure one or more beamformed reference signals. The beamformed reference signals may include an MRS, a CSI-RS, a SYNC, or a combination thereof.

[0107] In step 515, the UE 115-d can measure and determine your received signal quality. In some cases, signal quality may be based on an RSRP, an RSRQ, a CQI, an SNR, or a combination thereof.

[0108] In step 520, the UE 115-e can determine a beamforming configuration to measure and receive beamformed reference signals from base station 105-e, based at least in part on the signal quality measured in step 515. That is, the UE 115-e can determine which receiver beam pattern to use without first receiving an indication or instructions from base station 105-d (e.g., autonomous determination). In some cases, the UE 115-e may use a directional configuration for measurements if the signal quality is below a threshold, and an omnidirectional configuration if the signal quality is at or above the threshold. In some other cases, the beamforming configuration Petition 870190036837, dated 04 / 17 / 2019, page 48 / 102 43 / 72 from the UE 115-e receiver can be based on a previous indication via the 105-e base station or other UE 115-e characteristics (e.g., beam switching frequency or the beam sweep pattern that is used, as described with reference to Figures 2 and 3).

[0109] In step 525, base station 105-e can transmit the beamform reference signal to UE 115-e.

[0110] In step 530, the UE 115-e can measure beamforming reference signals based, at least in part, on the receiver beamforming configuration determined in step 520.

[0111] In step 535, UE 115-e can transmit a measurement report to base station 105e based on the reference signal received in step 525.

[0112] In step 540, UE 115-e can indicate to base station 105-e the beamforming configuration used to receive and measure the beamforming reference signal.

[0113] In some instances, the determined beam configuration can also be used for reference signal transmissions from the UE 115-e. For example, in step 520, the UE 115-e can autonomously determine which transmission beam pattern (e.g., omnidirectional or directional) to use for UL reference signal transmissions.

[0114] Figure 6 shows a block diagram 600 of a wireless device 605 that supports receiver beamforming for measurements, according to various aspects of the present disclosure. The wireless device 605 Petition 870190036837, dated 04 / 17 / 2019, p. 49 / 102 44 / 72 may be an example of aspects of a UE 115 or a base station 105, as described with reference to Figure 1. The wireless device 605 may include the receiver 610, the beamforming manager 615, and the transmitter 620. The wireless device 605 may also include a processor. Each of these components may be in communication with each other (e.g., via one or more buses).

[0115] Receiver 610 can receive information such as packets, user data, or control information associated with various information channels (e.g., control channels, data channels, and information related to receiver beamforming for measurements, etc.). The information can be passed to other components of the device. Receiver 610 can be an example of aspects of transceiver 935 described with reference to Figure 9.

[0116] The beamforming manager 615 may be an example of aspects of the beamforming manager 915 described with reference to Figure 9.

[0117] The beamforming manager 615 can transmit a request to measure a beamforming reference signal. In addition, the beamforming manager 615 can transmit a beamforming configuration that indicates one or more beamforming options for measuring the beamforming reference signal, wherein the one or more beamforming options include measuring the beamforming reference signal using a directional configuration and an omnidirectional configuration. Petition 870190036837, dated 04 / 17 / 2019, pages 50 / 102 45 / 72

[0118] The beamforming manager 615 can also receive a request to measure a beamformed reference signal. In addition, the beamforming manager 615 can receive a beamforming configuration that indicates one or more beamforming options for measuring the beamformed reference signal, wherein the one or more beamforming options include measuring the beamformed reference signal using a directional configuration and an omnidirectional configuration.

[0119] In some cases, the beamforming manager 615 can determine whether to use the directional configuration or the omnidirectional configuration based on the beamforming configuration, and measure the beamformed reference signal based on that determination.

[0120] The beamforming manager 615 can also receive a request to measure a beamformed reference signal, determine a signal quality, determine whether to use a directional configuration or an omnidirectional configuration to measure the beamformed reference signal based on signal quality, and measure the beamformed reference signal based on the determination.

[0121] Transmitter 620 can transmit signals generated by other components of the device. In some examples, transmitter 620 can be placed with a receiver 610 in a transceiver module. For example, transmitter 620 can be an example of aspects of transceiver 935 described with reference to Figure 9. The Petition 870190036837, dated 04 / 17 / 2019, pp. 51 / 102 The 46 / 72 620 transmitter may include a single antenna or it may include an array of antennas. Additionally, in some cases, the 620 transmitter may transmit the reference signal formed by beams.

[0122] Figure 7 shows a block diagram 700 of a wireless device 705 supporting receiver beamforming for measurements, according to various aspects of the present disclosure. The wireless device 705 may be an example of aspects of a wireless device 605 or a UE 115 or a base station 105, as described with reference to Figures 1 and 6. The wireless device 705 may include the receiver 710, the beamforming manager 715, and the transmitter 720. The wireless device 705 may also include a processor. Each of these components may be in communication with each other (e.g., via one or more buses).

[0123] The 710 receiver can receive information, such as packets, user data, or control information associated with various information channels (e.g., control channels, data channels, and beamforming-related information for measurements, etc.). The information can be passed to other components of the device. The 710 receiver can be an example of aspects of the 935 transceiver described with reference to Figure 9.

[0124] The beamforming manager 715 may be an example of aspects of the beamforming manager 915 described with reference to Figure 9.

[0125] The 715 beamforming manager can also include measurement request components. Petition 870190036837, dated 04 / 17 / 2019, pp. 52 / 102 47 / 72 725, beamforming configuration component 730, beamforming determination component 735, reference signal measurement component 740 and signal quality component 745.

[0126] The measurement request component 725 can transmit a request to measure a beamforming reference signal and receive a request to measure a beamforming reference signal. In some cases, the beamforming reference signal includes an MRS, CSI-RS, SYNC signal, or a combination thereof.

[0127] The beamforming component 730 can transmit a beamforming configuration that indicates one or more beamforming options for measuring the beamformed reference signal, wherein the one or more beamforming options include measuring the beamformed reference signal using a directional configuration and an omnidirectional configuration.

[0128] In some other cases, the beamforming configuration component 730 may receive a beamforming configuration that indicates one or more beamforming options for measuring the beamformed reference signal, wherein the one or more beamforming options include measuring the beamformed reference signal using a directional configuration and an omnidirectional configuration.

[0129] The beamforming determination component 735 can determine the use of the directional configuration or the omnidirectional configuration based on the beamforming configuration. The Petition 870190036837, dated 04 / 17 / 2019, pp. 53 / 102 The 48 / 72 beamforming determination component 735 can also transmit a message indicating whether the directional or omnidirectional configuration was used to measure the beamforming reference signal.

[0130] In some other cases, the beamforming determination component 735 may determine the use of a directional configuration or an omnidirectional configuration to measure the beamformed reference signal based on signal quality. Additionally, in some cases, the beamforming determination component 735 may determine the use of the omnidirectional configuration if the signal quality is at or above a threshold, and the directional configuration if the signal quality is below the threshold. For example, the beamforming determination component 735 may decide to use a directional beam for measurement if the signal quality in the UE, measured while using an omnidirectional configuration or a directional configuration, is below a threshold.In other cases, the beamforming determination component 735 may decide to use an omnidirectional beam for measurement if the signal quality in the UE, measured while using an omnidirectional or directional configuration, is at or above a threshold.

[0131] The 740 reference signal measurement component can measure the reference signal formed by beams based on the determination.

[0132] The 745 signal quality component can determine signal quality. In some cases, signal quality is based on an RSRP, an RSRQ, a CQI, Petition 870190036837, dated 04 / 17 / 2019, pp. 54 / 102 49 / 72 is an SNR or a combination thereof.

[0133] The 720 transmitter can transmit signals generated by other components of the device. In some examples, the 720 transmitter can be placed with a 710 receiver in a transceiver module. For example, the 720 transmitter can be an example of aspects of the 935 transceiver described with reference to Figure 9. The 720 transmitter may include a single antenna or it may include an array of antennas.

[0134] Figure 8 shows a block diagram 800 of a beamforming manager 815 supporting receiver beamforming for measurements, according to various aspects of the present disclosure. The beamforming manager 815 may be an example of aspects of a beamforming manager 615, a beamforming manager 715, or a beamforming manager 915 described with reference to Figures 6, 7, and 9. The beamforming manager 815 may include a measurement request component 820, a beamforming configuration component 825, a beamforming determination component 830, a reference signal measurement component 835, a signal quality component 840, a beamforming indication component 845, a beamforming activation component 850, and a beamforming request component 855.Each of these modules can communicate, directly or indirectly, with each other (for example, through one or more buses).

[0135] The measurement request component 820 can transmit a request to measure a signal of Petition 870190036837, dated 04 / 17 / 2019, pages 55 / 102 50 / 72 reference beamforming and receive a request to measure a beamforming reference signal. In some cases, the beamforming reference signal includes an MRS, CSI-RS, SYNC signal, such as an NR-SS, a PSS, an SSS, a DMRS, or a combination thereof.

[0136] The beamforming component 825 may transmit a beamforming configuration indicating one or more beamforming options for measuring the beamformed reference signal, wherein the one or more beamforming options include measuring the beamformed reference signal using a directional configuration and an omnidirectional configuration.

[0137] In some other cases, the beamforming configuration component 825 may receive a beamforming configuration that indicates one or more beamforming options for measuring the beamformed reference signal, wherein the one or more beamforming options include measuring the beamformed reference signal using a directional configuration and an omnidirectional configuration.

[0138] The beamforming determination component 830 can determine the use of the directional configuration or the omnidirectional configuration based on the beamforming configuration, transmit a message indicating whether the directional configuration or the omnidirectional configuration was used to measure the beamforming reference signal.

[0139] In some other cases, the beamforming determination component 830 may determine the use of a directional configuration or a configuration Petition 870190036837, dated 04 / 17 / 2019, pp. 56 / 102 51 / 72 omnidirectional to measure the reference signal formed by beams based on signal quality. Furthermore, in some cases, the beamforming determination component 830 may determine the use of the omnidirectional configuration if the signal quality is at or above a threshold, and the directional configuration if the signal quality is below the threshold. For example, the beamforming determination component 830 may decide to use a directional beam for measurement if the signal quality in the UE, measured while using an omnidirectional or directional configuration, is below a threshold. In other cases, the beamforming determination component 830 may decide to use an omnidirectional beam for measurement if the signal quality in the UE, measured while using an omnidirectional or directional configuration, is at or above a threshold.

[0140] The reference signal measurement component 835 can measure the reference signal formed by beams based on the determination.

[0141] The signal quality component 840 can determine signal quality. In some cases, signal quality is based on an RSRP, an RSRQ, a CQI, an SNR, or a combination thereof.

[0142] The beamforming indication component 845 can transmit an indication of whether the directional or omnidirectional configuration should be used to measure the beamforming reference signal. In some cases, the beamforming indication component 845 can determine a switching frequency. Petition 870190036837, dated 04 / 17 / 2019, pp. 57 / 102 52 / 72 beam is at or above a threshold, where the indication suggests the use of the omnidirectional configuration.

[0143] In some other cases, the beamforming indication component 845 may receive an indication as to whether the directional or omnidirectional configuration should be used to measure the beamforming reference signal. Furthermore, in some cases, the beamforming indication component 845 may determine the use of the directional configuration if the indication indicates the use of the omnidirectional configuration, or the directional configuration if the indication indicates the use of the omnidirectional configuration.

[0144] In some cases, the indication indicates the use of the omnidirectional configuration when a signal quality is at or above a threshold, and indicates the use of the directional configuration when the signal quality is below the threshold. In some cases, the signal quality is based on an RSRP, an RSRQ, a CQI, an SNR, or a combination thereof. In some cases, the indication indicates a beamform for use in measuring the beamform reference signal, wherein the beamform includes a beamwidth, an array gain, a beam direction, or a combination thereof.

[0145] In some cases, the indication shows the use of the omnidirectional configuration when the reference signal formed by beams overlaps with a reference signal from a neighboring transmitter. In some cases, the indication shows the use of both the directional and omnidirectional configurations. In some cases, the indication includes a beam sweep pattern. Petition 870190036837, dated 04 / 17 / 2019, pages 58 / 102 53 / 72 which includes a reference signal repeated in a set of symbols to indicate the use of the omnidirectional configuration.

[0146] The beamforming activation component 850 can transmit an activation message to enable or disable one or more beamforming options.

[0147] The 855 beamforming request component can transmit a configuration request that requests a reference signal beam scan type that is compatible with omnidirectional configuration.

[0148] Figure 9 shows a diagram of a system 900 that includes a device 905 that supports receiver beamforming for measurements, according to various aspects of the present disclosure. The device 905 may be an example of, or include, the components of, the wireless device 605, wireless device 705, or a UE 115, as described above, for example, with reference to Figures 1, 6, and 7. The device 905 may include components for bidirectional voice and data communication that include components for transmitting and receiving communications, including the beamforming manager UE 915, processor 920, memory 925, software 930, transceiver 935, antenna 940, and I / O controller 945. These components may be in electronic communication via one or more buses (e.g., bus 910). The device 905 may communicate wirelessly with one or more base stations 105.

[0149] The 920 processor may include a Petition 870190036837, dated 04 / 17 / 2019, pp. 59 / 102 54 / 72 intelligent hardware device (e.g., a general-purpose processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), a central processing unit (CPU), a microcontroller, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), a programmable logic device, a discrete gate or transistor logic component, a discrete hardware component, or any combination thereof). In some cases, the 920 processor may be configured to operate a memory array using a memory controller. In other cases, a memory controller may be integrated into the 920 processor. The 920 processor may be configured to execute computer-readable instructions stored in memory to perform various functions (e.g., functions or tasks supporting receiver beamforming for measurements).

[0150] Memory 925 may include random access memory (RAM) and read-only memory (ROM). Memory 925 may store computer-readable software, computer-executable software 930 including instructions that, when executed, cause the processor to perform various functions described in this document. In some cases, memory 925 may contain, among other things, a basic input / output system (BIOS) that may control basic hardware and / or software operation, such as interaction with peripheral components or devices.

[0151] Software 930 may include code to implement aspects of the present disclosure, including code to support receiver beamforming for Petition 870190036837, dated 04 / 17 / 2019, pages 60 / 102 55 / 72 measurements. The 930 software can be stored on a non-transient, computer-readable medium, such as system memory or other memory. In some cases, the 930 software may not be directly executable by the processor, but it can cause a computer (for example, when compiled and executed) to perform functions described in this document.

[0152] The 935 transceiver can communicate bidirectionally, through one or more antennas, wired or wireless links, as described above. For example, the 935 transceiver can represent a wireless transceiver and can communicate bidirectionally with another wireless transceiver. The 935 transceiver can also include a modem to modulate packets and provide modulated packets to antennas for transmission, and demodulate packets received from antennas.

[0153] In some cases, the wireless device may include a single 940 antenna. However, in some cases, the device may have more than one 940 antenna, which may have the capability to simultaneously transmit or receive multiple wireless transmissions.

[0154] The 945 I / O controller can manage input and output signals for the 905 device. The 945 I / O controller can also manage peripherals not integrated into the 905 device. In some cases, the 945 I / O controller can represent a physical connection or port for an external peripheral. In some cases, the 945 I / O controller can use and operate an operating system, such as iOS®, ANDROID®, MS-DOS®, MS-WINDOWS®, OS / 2®, UNIX®, LINUX®, or another operating system. Petition 870190036837, dated 04 / 17 / 2019, pp. 61 / 102 56 / 72 known.

[0155] Figure 10 shows a diagram of a system 1000 that includes a device 1005 that supports receiver beamforming for measurements, according to various aspects of the present disclosure. Device 1005 may be an example of, or include, the components of, wireless device 705, wireless device 805, or a base station 105, as described above, for example, with reference to Figures 1, 7, and 8. Device 1005 may include components for bidirectional voice and data communications, including components for transmitting and receiving communications, including base station beamforming manager 1015, processor 1020, memory 1025, software 1030, transceiver 1035, antenna 1040, network communications manager 1045, and base station communications manager 1050. These components may be in electronic communication via one or more buses (e.g., bus 1010).The 1005 device can wirelessly communicate with one or more UEs 115.

[0156] The 1020 processor may include an intelligent hardware device (e.g., a general-purpose processor, a DSP, a CPU, a microcontroller, an ASIC, an FPGA, a programmable logic device, a discrete gate or transistor logic component, a discrete hardware component, or a combination thereof). In some cases, the 1020 processor may be configured to operate a memory arrangement using a memory controller. In other cases, a memory controller may be integrated into the 1020 processor. The 1020 processor may be configured to execute Petition 870190036837, dated 04 / 17 / 2019, pages 62 / 102 57 / 72 computer-readable instructions stored in a memory to perform various functions (e.g., functions or tasks that support receiver beamforming for measurements).

[0157] 1025 memory may include RAM and ROM. 1025 memory may store computer-readable software, 1030 computer-executable software including instructions that, when executed, cause the processor to perform various functions described in this document. In some cases, 1025 memory may contain, among other things, a BIOS that may control basic hardware and / or software operation, such as interaction with peripheral components or devices.

[0158] Software 1030 may include code to implement aspects of the present disclosure, including code to support receiver beamforming for measurements. Software 1030 may be stored on a non-transient, computer-readable medium, such as system memory or other memory. In some cases, Software 1030 may not be directly executable by the processor, but may cause a computer (e.g., when compiled and executed) to perform functions described herein.

[0159] The 1035 transceiver can communicate bidirectionally, through one or more antennas, wired or wireless links, as described above. For example, the 1035 transceiver can represent a wireless transceiver and can communicate bidirectionally with another wireless transceiver. The 1035 transceiver can also include a modem to modulate and deliver packets. Petition 870190036837, dated 04 / 17 / 2019, pp. 63 / 102 58 / 72 modulated signals are sent to the antennas for transmission, and packets received from the antennas are demodulated.

[0160] In some cases, the wireless device may include a single 1040 antenna. However, in some cases, the device may have more than one 1040 antenna, which may have the capability to simultaneously transmit or receive multiple wireless transmissions.

[0161] The 1045 network communications manager can manage communications with the main network (for example, through one or more wired return transport channel links). For example, the 1045 network communications manager can manage the transfer of data communications to client devices, such as one or more 115 UEs.

[0162] The 1050 base station communications manager can manage communications with another 105 base station, and may include a controller or programmer to control communications with 115 UEs in cooperation with other 105 base stations. For example, the 1050 base station communications manager can coordinate scheduling for transmissions to 115 UEs for various interference mitigation techniques, such as beamforming or joint transmission. In some examples, the 1050 base station communications manager can provide an X2 interface within an LTE / LTE-A wireless communication network technology to provide communication between 105 base stations.

[0163] Figure 11 shows a flowchart illustrating a method 1100 for forming receiver beams for measurements, according to various aspects of the present Petition 870190036837, dated 04 / 17 / 2019, pages 64 / 102 59 / 72 disclosure. The operations of method 1100 can be implemented by a UE 115 or base station 105 or their components, as described in this document. For example, the operations of method 1100 can be performed by a beamforming manager, as described with reference to Figures 6 to 8. In some examples, the UE 115 or base station 105 can execute a set of codes to control the functional elements of the device to perform the functions described below. Additionally or alternatively, the UE 115 or base station 105 can perform aspects of the functions described below using special-purpose hardware.

[0164] In block 1105, UE 115 or base station 105 can transmit a request to measure a reference signal formed by beams. The operations of block 1105 can be performed according to the methods described with reference to Figures 1 to 5. In certain examples, aspects of the block 1105 operations can be performed by a measurement request component, as described with reference to Figures 6 to 8.

[0165] In block 1110, UE 115 or base station 105 may transmit a beamforming configuration indicating one or more beamforming options for measuring the beamforming reference signal, wherein one or more beamforming options include an indication of a beam pattern for measuring the beamforming reference signal. In some cases, one or more beamforming options may additionally include the use of a directional configuration, an omnidirectional configuration, or a combination thereof, for measuring Petition 870190036837, dated 04 / 17 / 2019, pages 65 / 102 60 / 72 the beamforming reference signal. The 1110 block operations can be performed according to the methods described with reference to Figures 1 to 5. In certain examples, aspects of the 1110 block operations can be performed by a beamforming configuration component, as described with reference to Figures 6 to 8.

[0166] In block 1115, UE 115 or base station 105 can transmit the beamforming reference signal. Block 1115 operations can be performed according to the methods described with reference to Figures 1 to 5. In certain examples, aspects of block 1115 operations can be performed by a transmitter, as described with reference to Figures 6 to 8.

[0167] Figure 12 shows a flowchart illustrating a 1200 method for receiver beamforming for measurements, according to various aspects of the present disclosure. The operations of the 1200 method can be implemented by a UE 115 or base station 105 or their components, as described in this document. For example, the operations of the 1200 method can be performed by a beamforming manager, as described with reference to Figures 6 to 8. In some examples, the UE 115 or base station 105 can execute a set of codes to control the functional elements of the device to perform the functions described below. Additionally or alternatively, the UE 115 or base station 105 can perform aspects of the functions described below using special-purpose hardware.

[0168] In block 1205, UE 115 or base station 105 may receive a request to measure a signal from Petition 870190036837, dated 04 / 17 / 2019, pages 66 / 102 61 / 72 reference formed by beams. The operations of block 1205 can be performed according to the methods described with reference to Figures 1 to 5. In certain examples, aspects of the block 1205 operations can be performed by a measurement request component, as described with reference to Figures 6 to 8.

[0169] In block 1210, UE 115 or base station 105 may receive a beamforming configuration indicating one or more beamforming options for measuring the beamformed reference signal, wherein one or more beamforming options include an indication of a beam pattern for measuring the beamformed reference signal. In some cases, one or more beamforming options may additionally include the use of a directional configuration, an omnidirectional configuration, or a combination thereof, for measuring the beamformed reference signal. Block 1210 operations may be performed according to the methods described with reference to Figures 1 to 5. In certain instances, aspects of block 1210 operations may be performed by a beamforming configuration component as described with reference to Figures 6 to 8.

[0170] In block 1215, UE 115 or base station 105 can determine the use of the directional configuration or the omnidirectional configuration based, at least in part, on the beamforming configuration. Block 1215 operations can be performed according to the methods described with reference to Figures 1 to 5. In certain examples, aspects of block 1215 can be performed by beamforming determination component. Petition 870190036837, dated 04 / 17 / 2019, pages 67 / 102 62 / 72 beam, as described with reference to Figures 6 to 8.

[0171] In block 1220, UE 115 or base station 105 can measure the reference signal formed by beams based, at least in part, on determination. The operations of block 1220 can be performed according to the methods described with reference to Figures 1 to 5. In certain examples, aspects of block 1220 can be performed by a reference signal measurement component, as described with reference to Figures 6 to 8.

[0172] Figure 13 shows a flowchart illustrating a 1300 method for receiver beamforming for measurements, according to various aspects of the present disclosure. The operations of the 1300 method can be implemented by a UE 115 or base station 105 or their components, as described in this document. For example, the operations of the 1300 method can be performed by a beamforming manager, as described with reference to Figures 6 to 8. In some examples, the UE 115 or base station 105 can execute a set of codes to control the functional elements of the device to perform the functions described below. Additionally or alternatively, the UE 115 or base station 105 can perform aspects of the functions described below using special-purpose hardware.

[0173] In block 1305, UE 115 or base station 105 may receive a request to measure a reference signal formed by beams. The operations of block 1305 may be performed according to the methods described with reference to Figures 1 to 5. In certain examples, Petition 870190036837, dated 04 / 17 / 2019, pages 68 / 102 63 / 72 aspects of the block 1305 operations can be performed by a measurement request component, as described with reference to Figures 6 to 8.

[0174] In block 1310, UE 115 or base station 105 can determine a signal quality. Block 1310 operations can be performed according to the methods described with reference to Figures 1 to 5. In certain examples, block 1310 aspects can be performed by a signal quality component, as described with reference to Figures 6 to 8.

[0175] In block 1315, UE 115 or base station 105 can determine the use of a directional configuration or an omnidirectional configuration to measure the beamforming reference signal based, at least in part, on signal quality. Block 1315 operations can be performed according to the methods described with reference to Figures 1 to 5. In certain examples, block 1315 aspects can be performed by beamforming determination component, as described with reference to Figures 6 to 8.

[0176] In block 1320, UE 115 or base station 105 can measure the reference signal formed by beams based, at least in part, on determination. The operations of block 1320 can be performed according to the methods described with reference to Figures 1 to 5. In certain examples, aspects of block 1320 can be performed by a reference signal measurement component, as described with reference to Figures 6 to 8.

[0177] It should be noted that the methods described Petition 870190036837, dated 04 / 17 / 2019, pages 69 / 102 64 / 72 above describe possible implementations, and the operations and steps can be rearranged or otherwise modified so that other implementations are possible. Furthermore, aspects of two or more of the methods can be combined.

[0178] The techniques described in this document can be used for various wireless communication systems, such as code-division multiple access (CDMA), time-division multiple access (TDMA), frequency-division multiple access (FDMA), orthogonal frequency-division multiple access (OFDMA), single-carrier frequency-division multiple access (SC-FDMA), and other systems. The terms system and network are often used interchangeably. A code-division multiple access (CDMA) system may implement a radio technology, such as CDMA2000, Universal Terrestrial Radio Access (UTRA), etc. CDMA2000 encompasses the IS-2000, IS-95, and IS-856 standards. Versions of IS-2000 may commonly be referred to as CDMA2000 1X, 1X, etc. IS-856 (TIA-856) is commonly called CDMA2000 1xEV-DO, High Rate Packet Data (HRPD), etc. UTRA includes Wideband CDMA (WCDMA) and other CDMA variants.A time-division multiple access (TDMA) system can implement a radio technology, such as the Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM).

[0179] An orthogonal frequency division multiple access (OFDMA) system can implement a radio technology, such as Ultra Mobile Broadband (UMB), Evolved UTRA (EUTRA), Institute of Engineers Petition 870190036837, dated 04 / 17 / 2019, pages 70 / 102 65 / 72 Electrical and Electronic (IEEE) 802.11 (Wi-Fi), IEEE 802.16 (WiMAX), IEEE 802.20, Flash-OFDM, etc. UTRA and E-UTRA are part of the Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS). Long-Term Evolution 3GPP (LTE) and LTE-Advanced (LTE-A) are versions of the Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS) that use E-UTRA. UTRA, E-UTRA, UMTS, LTE, LTE-A, NR, and the Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) are described in documents of an organization called the “3rd Generation Partnership Project” (3GPP). CDMA2000 and UMB are described in documents of an organization called the “3rd Generation Partnership Project 2” (3GPP2). The techniques described in this document can be used for the radio systems and technologies mentioned above, as well as other radio systems and technologies.Although aspects of an LTE or NR system may be described for illustrative purposes, and LTE or NR terminology may be used throughout most of the description, the techniques described herein are applicable beyond LTE or NR applications.

[0180] In LTE / LTE-A networks, including such networks described in this document, the term evolved B node (eNB) can generally be used to describe base stations. The wireless communication system or systems described in this document may include a heterogeneous LTE / LTE-A or NR network, in which different types of evolved B nodes (eNBs) provide coverage for various geographic regions. For example, each eNB, gNB, or base station may provide communication coverage for a macrocell, a small cell, or other cell types. The term “cell” can be used to describe a base station. Petition 870190036837, dated 04 / 17 / 2019, pp. 71 / 102 66 / 72 base, a carrier or component carrier associated with a base station or a coverage area (e.g., sector, etc.) of a carrier or base station, depending on the context.

[0181] Base stations may include, or may be referred to by those skilled in the art as, a transceiver base station, a radio base station, an access point (AP), a radio transceiver, a NodeB, eNodeB (eNB), next-generation NodeB (gNB), Initial NodeB, an Initial eNodeB, a TRP, or some other suitable terminology. The geographic coverage area for a base station may be divided into sectors that form only a portion of the coverage area. The wireless communication system or systems described herein may include base stations of different types (e.g., macrocell or small-cell base stations). The UEs described herein may have the capability to communicate with various types of base stations and network equipment including macro eNBs, small-cell eNBs, gNBs, relay base stations, and the like. There may be overlapping coverage areas for different technologies.

[0182] A macrocell generally covers a relatively large geographical area (e.g., several kilometers in radius) and may allow unrestricted access by UEs to service subscriptions with the network provider. A small cell is a lower-power base station, compared to a macrocell, that may operate in the same frequency bands or in different frequency bands (e.g., licensed, unlicensed, Petition 870190036837, dated 04 / 17 / 2019, pp. 72 / 102 67 / 72 etc.) of macrocells. Small cells can include picocells, femtocells, and microcells, according to various examples. A picocell, for example, can cover a small geographic area and can allow unrestricted access by UEs to service subscriptions with the network provider. A femtocell also covers a small geographic area (e.g., a residence) and can provide restricted access by UEs that have an association with the femtocell (e.g., UEs in a closed subscriber group (CSG), UEs for users in the residence, and similar). An eNB for a macrocell can be called a macro eNB. An eNB for a small cell can be called a small cell eNB, a pico eNB, a femto eNB, or an initial eNB. An eNB can support one or multiple cells (e.g., two, three, four, and similar) (e.g., component carriers).

[0183] The wireless communication system or systems described in this document may support synchronous or asynchronous operation. For synchronous operation, base stations may have similar frame timing, and transmissions from different base stations may be approximately time-aligned. For asynchronous operation, base stations may have different frame timing, and transmissions from different base stations may not be time-aligned. The techniques described in this document may be used for both synchronous and asynchronous operations.

[0184] Downlink transmissions described in this document may be called forward link transmissions, while transmissions of Petition 870190036837, dated 04 / 17 / 2019, pp. 73 / 102 68 / 72 uplink transmissions can also be called reverse link transmissions. Each communication link described in this document, which includes, for example, the 100 and 200 wireless communication systems of Figures 1 and 2, may include one or more carriers, where each carrier may be a signal formed from multiple subcarriers (e.g., waveform signals of different frequencies).

[0185] The description presented in this document, in connection with the accompanying drawings, describes exemplary configurations and does not represent all examples that can be implemented or that are covered by the scope of the claims. The term "exemplary" as used herein means to serve as an example, instance, or illustration and is not preferred or advantageous in relation to other examples. The detailed description includes specific details for the purpose of providing an understanding of the described set of procedures. This set of procedures, however, can be practiced without these specific details. In some instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form in order to avoid obscuring concepts from the described examples.

[0186] In the attached Figures, similar components or resources may have the same reference identification. Furthermore, several components of the same type may be distinguished by following the reference identification with a dash and a second identification that distinguishes between similar components. If only the first reference identification is used in the report Petition 870190036837, dated 04 / 17 / 2019, pp. 74 / 102 69 / 72 descriptive, the description is applicable to any of the similar components that have the same first reference identification, regardless of the second reference identification.

[0187] The information and signals described in this document may be represented using any of a variety of different technologies and techniques. For example, data, instructions, commands, information, signals, bits, symbols, and integrated circuits that may be referenced throughout the description above may be represented by voltages, currents, electromagnetic waves, magnetic particles or fields, optical particles or fields, or any combination thereof.

[0188] The various illustrative blocks and modules described in conjunction with the disclosure in this document may be implemented or realized with a general-purpose processor, a discrete logic controller (DSP), an ASIC, an open-source programming device (FPGA), or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or logic transistor, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof designed to perform the functions described in this document. A general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor, but alternatively, the processor may be any conventional processor, controller, microcontroller, or state machine. A processor may also be implemented as a combination of computing devices, for example, a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, multiple microprocessors, one or more microprocessors in conjunction with a DSP core, or any other such combination. Petition 870190036837, dated 04 / 17 / 2019, pp. 75 / 102 70 / 72 configuration.

[0189] The functions described herein may be implemented in hardware, processor-executed software, firmware, or any combination thereof. If implemented in processor-executed software, the functions may be stored or transmitted as one or more instructions or code in a computer-readable medium. Other examples and deployments are covered by the scope of the disclosure and the appended claims. For example, due to the nature of the software, the functions described above may be deployed using processor-executed software, hardware, firmware, directly connected, or combinations thereof. The function deployment attributes may also be physically located in multiple locations, which includes being distributed so that portions of the functions are deployed in different physical locations.Furthermore, as used herein, including in the claims, or as used in a list of items (for example, a list of items preceded by a phrase such as at least one of or one or more) indicates an inclusive list, such that, for example, a list of at least one of A, B, or C means A or B or C or AB or AC or BC or ABC (that is, A and B and C). Furthermore, as used herein, the phrase "based on" should not be interpreted as referring to a closed set of conditions. For example, an exemplary step that is described as being based on condition A may be based on either condition A or condition C. Petition 870190036837, dated 04 / 17 / 2019, pp. 76 / 102 71 / 72 B without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In other words, as used in this document, the phrase “based on” should be interpreted in the same way as the phrase “based, at least in part, on”.

[0190] Computer-readable media include both non-transient computer storage media and communication media, which include any means that facilitate the transfer of a computer program from one location to another. A non-transient storage medium may be any available medium that can be accessed by a general-purpose or special-purpose computer.By way of example, and without limitation, non-transient computer-readable media may comprise RAM, ROM, electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), compact disc (CD) ROM or other optical disc storage, magnetic disc storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other non-transient medium that can be used to carry or store desired program code media in the form of instructions or data structures and that can be accessed by a general-purpose or special-purpose computer, or a general-purpose or special-purpose processor. Furthermore, any connection is properly termed a computer-readable medium.For example, if the software is transmitted from a website, server, or other remote source using a coaxial cable, fiber optic cable, twisted pair, digital subscriber line (DSL), or wireless technologies such as infrared, radio, and microwave, then the coaxial cable, fiber optic cable, twisted pair, line... Petition 870190036837, dated 04 / 17 / 2019, pp. 77 / 102 72 / 72 digital subscriber (DSL) or wireless technologies such as infrared, radio, and microwave are included in the definition of media. Magnetic disk and optical disk, as used herein, include CD, laser disk, optical disk, digital versatile disk (DVD), floppy disk, and Blu-ray disc, wherein magnetic disks typically reproduce data magnetically, while optical disks reproduce data optically with lasers. Combinations of the foregoing are also covered by the scope of computer-readable media.

[0191] The description in this document is provided to enable a person skilled in the art to produce or use the disclosure. Various modifications to the disclosure will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic principles defined in this document may be applied to other variations without departing from the scope of the disclosure. Thus, the disclosure is not limited to the examples and designs described in this document, but should be compatible with the broadest scope consistent with the innovative principles and features disclosed in this document. Petition 870190036837, dated 04 / 17 / 2019, pp. 78 / 102

Claims

1 / 5 CLAIMS 1. Method (1100) performed by a network entity (105) for wireless communication characterized in that it comprises: transmitting (1105), to a user equipment, UE (115), a request to measure a beamforming reference signal; transmitting (1110), to the UE, a beamforming configuration indicating a plurality of beamforming options for measuring the beamforming reference signal; determining whether a beam switching frequency by the UE is at, or exceeds, a threshold value indicated by a threshold parameter;transmit an activation message to activate one or more beamforming measurement options from the plurality of beamforming options, the one or more activated beamforming measurement options include an indication of a particular beam pattern to measure the beamformed reference signal, wherein the particular beam pattern is indicated based on the threshold parameter associated with a beam switching frequency by the UE, and wherein if the beam switching frequency is determined to be below the threshold value, the particular beam pattern indicated is based on a directional configuration; and wherein if the beam switching frequency is determined to be at or exceed the threshold value, the particular beam pattern indicated is based on an omnidirectional configuration; transmit (1115) the beamformed reference signal;and receive a measurement report on measurements of the reference signal formed by the beam, the measurements based on the particular beam pattern indicated.

2. Method, according to claim 1, characterized in that the indication further indicates a beamform for use in measuring the reference signal formed by beams, wherein the beamform comprises a beam width, a matrix gain, a beam direction or a combination thereof.

3. Method, according to claim 1, characterized in that the indication further comprises a beam scan pattern comprising a reference signal repeated in a plurality of symbols to indicate the use of the omnidirectional configuration.

4. Method (1200) performed by a user equipment, UE (115), for wireless communication characterized in that it comprises: receiving (1205), from a network entity (105), a request to measure a beamforming reference signal; receiving (1210), from the network entity (105), a beamforming configuration indicating a plurality of beamforming options for measuring the beamforming reference signal;to receive an activation message to activate one or more beamforming measurement options from the plurality of beamforming options, the one or more activated beamforming measurement options include an indication of a particular beam pattern to measure the beamformed reference signal, wherein the particular beam pattern is indicated based on the threshold parameter associated with a beam switching frequency by the UE, and wherein if the beam switching frequency is determined by the network entity as below the threshold value indicated by the threshold parameter, the particular beam pattern indicated is based on a directional configuration; and wherein if the beam switching frequency is determined by the network entity as being at or exceeding the threshold value, the particular beam pattern indicated is based on an omnidirectional configuration;measure (1220) the reference signal formed by beams using the standard of Petition 870240097675, of 11 / 14 / 2024, page 15 / 32 3 / 5 particular beam indicated; and transmit a measurement report on the measurements obtained.; 5. Device (1005) in a network entity (105) for wireless communication characterized in that it comprises: a processor (1020); a memory (1025) communicatively coupled to the processor; and executable instructions (1030) configured to be stored in the memory, which, when executed by the processor, cause the device to: transmit (1105), to a user equipment, UE (115), a request to measure a beamforming reference signal; transmit (1110), to the UE, a beamforming configuration indicating a plurality of beamforming options for measuring the beamforming reference signal; determine whether a beam switching frequency by the UE is at or exceeds a threshold value indicated by a threshold parameter;transmit an activation message to activate one or more beamforming measurement options from the plurality of beamforming options, the one or more activated beamforming measurement options include an indication of a particular beam pattern to measure the beamforming reference signal, wherein the particular beam pattern is indicated based on a threshold parameter associated with a beam switching frequency by the UE, and wherein if the beam switching frequency is determined to be below the threshold value, the particular beam pattern indicated is based on a directional configuration; and wherein if the beam switching frequency is determined to be at or exceed the threshold value, the particular beam pattern indicated is based on an omnidirectional configuration; Petition 870240097675, dated 11 / 14 / 2024, p. 16 / 32 4 / 5 transmit (1115) the beamforming reference signal;and receive a measurement report on measurements of the reference signal formed by the beam, the measurements based on the particular beam pattern indicated.

6. Device (905) in a user equipment, UE (115), for wireless communication characterized in that it comprises: a processor (920); a memory (925) communicatively coupled to the processor; and executable instructions (930) configured to be stored in the memory, which, when executed by the processor, cause the device to: receive (1205), from a network entity (105), a request to measure a beamforming reference signal; receive (1210), from the network entity (105), a beamforming configuration indicating a plurality of beamforming options for measuring the beamforming reference signal;to receive an activation message to activate one or more beamforming measurement options from the plurality of beamforming options, the one or more activated beamforming measurement options include an indication of a particular beam pattern to measure the beamformed reference signal, wherein the particular beam pattern is indicated based on the threshold parameter associated with a beam switching frequency by the UE, and wherein if the beam switching frequency is determined by the network entity as below the threshold value indicated by the threshold parameter, the particular beam pattern indicated is based on a directional configuration; and wherein if the beam switching frequency is determined by the network entity as being at or exceeding the threshold value, the particular beam pattern indicated is based on an omnidirectional configuration;measure (1220) the reference signal formed by beams using the particular beam pattern indicated; and transmit a measurement report on the measurements obtained. Petition 870240097675, dated 11 / 14 / 2024, page 18 / 32;

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