Method and apparatus for improving multiple input and multiple output operation in mobile communications

Description

1 / 29 METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR IMPROVING MULTIPLE INPUT AND MULTIPLE OUTPUT OPERATION IN MOBILE COMMUNICATIONS. Cross-reference to related patent application(s).

[0001] This disclosure is part of a non-provisional application claiming the benefit of priority of U.S. Patent Application No. 63 / 468,019, filed May 22, 2023, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Technical field

[0002] This disclosure relates generally to mobile communications and, more particularly, to improving the operation of multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) with respect to primary user equipment (UE), collaborating UE and network appliances in mobile communications. State of the art

[0003] Unless otherwise indicated in this document, the approaches described in this section do not constitute prior art with respect to the claims listed below and are not admitted as prior art by their inclusion in this section.

[0004] MIMO is an antenna technology for wireless communications in which multiple antennas are used at both the source (e.g., transmitter) and the destination (e.g., receiver). The antennas at each end of the communication device are combined to minimize errors, optimize data transfer rates, and improve the capacity of radio transmissions by allowing data to travel multiple signal paths simultaneously. Creating multiple versions of the same signal provides more opportunities for data to reach the receiving antenna without being affected by fading, which improves the signal-to-noise ratio and error rate. By expanding the capacity of radio frequency (RF) systems, MIMO technology can create a more stable connection with less congestion and high... Petition 870250090208, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 15 / 57 2 / 29 data transfer rate.

[0005] In mobile communication systems, if a UE could support a high number of MIMO layers, it could achieve diversity gain or multiplexing gain. However, the number of available MIMO layers is limited by the channel quality between the base station and the UE. Furthermore, hardware and / or software limitations and UE power limitations can also restrict the UE's MIMO capacity. Therefore, if there is another UE-controlled device (e.g., UE / collaborator panel or repeater) that can assist in routing data / signaling through another frequency, this could increase the effective number of MIMO layers and significantly boost MIMO performance.

[0006] To support data forwarding over a different frequency (e.g., forwarding data from the Uu interface on frequency f1 using frequency f2, and vice versa), the network side needs to control the use of the forwarding frequency (e.g., frequency f2) for radio resource metering and crosstalk management. On the other hand, enabling data forwarding on a collaborating UE / Panel may increase the total power consumption on the UE side and may not be necessary if the required data rate is low.

[0007] It is desirable that the UE and the network manage the data forwarding operation dynamically and efficiently. Thus, how to increase MIMO performance in an adaptive and appropriate manner becomes an important issue in the newly developed wireless communication network. Therefore, there is a need to provide suitable schemes to control the data forwarding operation. Summary

[0008] The following summary is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to be limiting in any way. That is, the Petition 870250090208, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, p. 16 / 57 3 / 29 The following summary is provided to introduce concepts, highlights, benefits, and advantages of the novel and non-obvious techniques described herein. Selected implementations are described further in the detailed description. Thus, the following summary is not intended to identify essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0009] One objective of this disclosure is to propose solutions or schemes that address the issues mentioned above regarding MIMO operation in relation to user equipment and network devices in mobile communications.

[0010] In one aspect, a method may involve a device receiving a capacity query on a first frequency from a network node. The method may also involve the device transmitting a capacity report to the network node to indicate the supportability of a data forwarding operation with a collaborating device on a second frequency. The method may further involve the device receiving a configuration to enable or disable the data forwarding operation with the collaborating device. The method may also involve the device performing the data forwarding operation according to the configuration.

[0011] In one aspect, a method may involve a network node transmitting a capacity query on a first frequency to a primary device. The method may also involve the network node receiving a capacity report from the primary device to indicate the supportability of a data forwarding operation with a collaborating device on a second frequency. The method may further involve the network node transmitting a configuration to enable or disable the data forwarding operation with the collaborating device. Petition 870250090208, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 17 / 57 4 / 29

[0012] It should be noted that, although the description provided here may be in the context of certain radio access technologies, networks and network topologies, such as Long-Term Evolution (LTE), LTE-Advanced, LTE-Advanced Pro, 5th Generation (5G), New Radio (NR), Internet of Things (IoT) and Narrow Band Internet of Things (NB-IoT), Industrial Internet of Things (IoT) and 6th Generation (6G), the concepts, schemes and any variations / derivations proposed may be implemented in, for and by other types of radio access technologies, networks and network topologies. Thus, the scope of this disclosure is not limited to the examples described herein. Brief description of the figures

[0013] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a better understanding of the disclosure and are incorporated into and form part of this disclosure. The drawings illustrate implementations of the disclosure and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the disclosure. It is appreciated that the drawings are not necessarily to scale, as some components may be shown out of proportion to the size in the actual implementation, in order to clearly illustrate the concept of this disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 1 is a diagram representing an example scenario under schemes according to implementations of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 2A is a diagram representing an example scenario under schemes according to implementations of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 2B is a diagram representing an example scenario under schemes according to implementations of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 3 is a block diagram of an example communication system according to an implementation of the present disclosure. Petition 870250090208, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 18 / 57 5 / 29

[0018] FIG. 4 is a flowchart of an example process according to an implementation of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 5 is a flowchart of an example process according to an implementation of the present disclosure. Detailed description of preferred implementations

[0020] Detailed embodiments and implementations of the claimed materials are disclosed herein. However, it should be understood that the embodiments and implementations disclosed are merely illustrative of the claimed materials, which may be carried out in various ways. This disclosure may, however, be carried out in many different ways and should not be interpreted as limited to the exemplary embodiments and implementations presented herein. On the contrary, these exemplary embodiments and implementations are provided so that the description of this disclosure is complete and comprehensive and fully conveys the scope of this disclosure to those skilled in the art. In the description below, details of well-known features and techniques may be omitted to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the embodiments and implementations presented. Overview

[0021] Implementations according to this disclosure refer to various techniques, methods, schemes and / or solutions related to improving MIMO operation with respect to user equipment and network devices in mobile communications. According to this disclosure, various possible solutions can be implemented separately or in combination. That is, although these possible solutions may be described separately below, two or more of these solutions may be implemented in one combination or another.

[0022] FIG. 1 illustrates an example scenario 100 under schemes according to implementations of the present disclosure. Scenario 100 involves at least one primary UE, one UE Petition 870250090208, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 19 / 57 6 / 29 collaborator and a network node, which may be part of a wireless communication network (e.g., an LTE network, a 5G / NR network, an IoT network, or a 6G network). Scenario 100 illustrates the structure of data forwarding operation in a communication system. The primary UE can expand its MIMO capacity (e.g., effective number of MIMO layers) using data forwarding via the collaborator UE. Specifically, the primary UE can communicate directly with the network node (e.g., gNB) on a first frequency f1. The first frequency f1 may comprise a mid-band frequency (e.g., frequency range 1 (FR1)), which has wide area coverage and is suitable for long-distance communication. In addition to direct communication with the network node, the primary UE can establish indirect communication with the network node through the collaborator UE. The collaborator UE can communicate with the primary UE on a second frequency f2.The second frequency f2 can comprise a high-band frequency (e.g., frequency range 2 (FR2)), which has a high data rate and is suitable for short-distance communication. For long-distance communication, the collaborating UE can also communicate with the network node on the first frequency f1. Thus, the collaborating UE can perform interband frequency translation to translate the first frequency f1 to the second frequency f2 or translate the second frequency f2 to the first frequency f1. The collaborating UE can assist in routing the data transmission between the primary UE and the network node. The data routing performed by the collaborating UE can comprise Layer 1 (L1) routing or Layer 2 (L2) routing.

[0023] To support data forwarding over a different frequency (for example, forwarding data from interface Uu on frequency f1 using frequency f2, and vice versa), the network node (e.g., gNB) needs to control the Petition 870250090208, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, p. 20 / 57 7 / 29 Use of forwarding frequency (e.g., f2 frequency) for radio resource measurement. The forwarding frequency must be properly selected / configured to avoid interference, maintain channel quality, and improve radio resource efficiency. Providing adequate time-frequency resource allocation for data forwarding operation is desirable. On the other hand, enabling data forwarding on a collaborating UE may increase total power consumption on the UE side. However, the additional power consumption may not be necessary if the requested data rate or data amount is low. In other words, data forwarding operation may not always be necessary or enabled. Therefore, it is desirable to dynamically turn the collaborating UE (e.g., UE-controlled repeater) on / off or enable / disable it and / or indicate this preference to the network node to improve power management.

[0024] In view of the foregoing, this disclosure proposes some schemes related to improving MIMO operation with collaborating UEs in relation to UEs and network devices in mobile communications. According to the schemes in this disclosure, the network node can manage the frequencies (i.e., radio resources) used for data forwarding operation. The network node can also dynamically enable or disable data forwarding operation based on certain conditions. On the other hand, the UE can measure and report some candidate frequencies configured for data forwarding operation. The UE can also indicate its preference for enabling or disabling data forwarding operation. Thus, radio resource efficiency and power consumption can be improved.

[0025] From the point of view of the network node, several schemes for managing the frequencies used for Petition 870250090208, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 21 / 57 8 / 29 Data forwarding / repetition is proposed. Specifically, if there are frequencies reserved / pre-allocated for data forwarding / repetition purposes, the network node can directly / blindly configure the frequencies for some UEs (e.g., primary UE and / or collaborating UE) as needed. Since these frequencies are reserved solely for data forwarding / repetition purposes, interference or conflicts on these frequencies should be low, and they can be directly / blindly used / configured for data forwarding operations. The frequencies reserved for data forwarding / repetition can be predefined in the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) specifications or pre-configured on the network side.

[0026] In another scheme, the network node can configure a list of candidate data forwarding / repeat frequencies for the UE to measure and report. If the UE reports very low signal quality (e.g., Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SINR) or Received Signal Reference Power (RSRP)) on that frequency, this implies that the frequency is not used by the network in that area (i.e., the frequency is available for use). The network node can then configure that frequency for a UE for data forwarding / repeat purposes. For example, in a reporting event, when a neighboring frequency becomes worse than a threshold value, the UE can report the neighboring frequency to the network node, and the neighboring frequency can be used for data forwarding / repeat.

[0027] In another scheme, after configuring the forwarding frequency, the network node can enable or disable the downlink / uplink data forwarding operation, if necessary. The network node can configure the enabling or disabling of the data forwarding operation based on UE preferences. Alternatively, the node Petition 870250090208, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 22 / 57 Network 9 / 29 can directly enable or disable data forwarding operations without UE input.

[0028] From the UE's point of view, several schemes for managing the enabling or disabling of data forwarding / repeating are proposed. Specifically, the UE can indicate its capability along with the capability of the collaborating UE. The UE can report that it is capable of enhancing MIMO operation by using another frequency (for short-distance data forwarding) between the UE and its collaborating UE. The UE can also report the supported frequency bands (e.g., frequency band combinations) that can be used for frequency-translated forwarding on the collaborating UE. The supported frequency bands may depend on the capabilities of the UE (e.g., primary UE and / or collaborating UE) (e.g., hardware / software capabilities).

[0029] In another scheme, the UE can receive candidate frequencies for data forwarding from the network node. The UE can perform a measurement on the candidate frequencies and transmit a measurement result to the network node. The network node can then configure the data forwarding frequencies for the UE according to the measurement result reported by the UE. For example, the network node can determine which frequency is not used (i.e., is available) according to the measurement result and configure that frequency for the UE for data forwarding operations.

[0030] In another scheme, after being configured with the data forwarding frequency (e.g., f2), the UE can indicate a preference to enable or disable the data forwarding operation (i.e., frequency translation function), should you wish to turn your collaborating UE on or off. The UE can also indicate a layer capability. Petition 870250090208, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 23 / 57 10 / 29 MIMO and a maximum transmission power capacity to the network node when the collaborating UE is powered on. Additionally, after being configured with the data forwarding frequency, the UE may be allowed to indicate its preference not to enable data forwarding operation. For example, due to connection loss / failure between the primary UE and the collaborating UE, or for power saving purposes, the UE may indicate not to enable data forwarding operation.

[0031] FIGS. 2A-2B illustrate an example scenario 200 under schemes according to implementations of the present disclosure. Scenario 200 involves at least one primary UE, one collaborating UE, and a network node, which may be part of a wireless communication network (e.g., an LTE network, a 5G / NR network, an IoT network, or a 6G network). Scenario 200 illustrates the signaling flow of the data forwarding operation. The primary UE may communicate with the network node via a long-range interface (e.g., first frequency f1) and communicate with the collaborating UE via a short-range interface (e.g., second frequency f2). The association or control between the primary UE and the collaborating UE may comprise proprietary protocols.

[0032] In step 201, the primary UE can operate in connected mode and the network node can query the UE's capacity (e.g., primary UE capacity and / or collaborator UE capacity). For example, the network node can transmit a capacity query message to the primary UE. In step 202, the primary UE can transmit a capacity report comprising UE capacity information to the network node. The UE capacity information can indicate the supportability of a data forwarding operation with the collaborator device on the second frequency (e.g., Petition 870250090208, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 24 / 57 11 / 29 f2). For example, the primary UE may indicate its support for the use of another frequency for short-distance data forwarding between the primary UE and its collaborating UE to enhance MIMO operation. Additionally, the primary UE may also report the capacity of frequency bands or combinations that can be used for frequency-translated forwarding with the collaborating UE. The primary UE may determine the capacity of frequency bands or combinations based on at least one of its hardware capabilities, software / firmware capabilities, supported bands provided by the service provider, and regulations.

[0033] In step 203, the network node can transmit a Radio Resource Control (RRC) reconfiguration message to the primary UE to configure a list of candidate data forwarding frequencies for the primary UE to measure and report. In step 204, the primary UE can transmit an RRC reconfiguration completion message to the network node. Then, the primary UE can perform a measurement on the list of candidate data forwarding frequencies. The primary UE can measure SINR or RSRP for the candidate data forwarding frequencies. In step 205, the primary UE can transmit a measurement report / result to the network node. The primary UE can report the data forwarding frequency according to some reporting events. For example, after the measurement, if the measurement result (e.g., SINR or RSRP) of a neighboring frequency becomes worse than a threshold value, this implies that the neighboring frequency is not used by the network.The primary UE can report this neighboring frequency to the network node.

[0034] In some implementations, steps 203-205 may be optional. The network node can configure the data forwarding frequency blindly / directly without reporting. Petition 870250090208, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 25 / 57 12 / 29 UE measurement. For example, for frequencies reserved for short-range communication, the network node can directly configure these frequencies for the primary UE for data forwarding operation and not require the primary UE to measure and report.

[0035] In step 206, the network node can transmit an RRC reconfiguration message to the primary UE to configure some data forwarding frequencies for the primary UE to use and allow the primary UE to indicate its preference to enable / disable the data forwarding operation (i.e., enable UE preference report). Correspondingly, the primary UE can receive a resource allocation (e.g., the configured data forwarding frequencies) for the data forwarding operation from the network node. The primary UE can perform the data forwarding operation according to the resource allocation. In step 207, the primary UE can transmit an RRC reconfiguration completion message to the network node.

[0036] In step 208, the primary UE can transmit assistance information to the network node. The assistance information can indicate its preference to enable / turn on the data forwarding operation with the collaborating UE. The primary UE can determine the preference based on at least one of a power state, a data state, and a connection state with the collaborating UE. For example, if the remaining power and / or buffered data exceed a threshold value, the primary UE can indicate its preference to enable / turn on the data forwarding operation. Additionally, the primary UE can also indicate its increased capacity if the data forwarding operation is enabled / turned on. For example, the primary UE can indicate the increased MIMO layer and / or maximum transmission power. Petition 870250090208, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 26 / 57 13 / 29 increased if the data forwarding operation is enabled / turned on.

[0037] In step 209, the network node can transmit an RRC reconfiguration message to the primary UE to enable the data forwarding operation. In step 209a, the primary UE can transmit a connect indication to the collaborating UE if the data forwarding operation is enabled. In step 210, the primary UE can transmit an RRC reconfiguration completion message to the network node.

[0038] In some implementations, the network node may enable the data forwarding operation directly, without indication or assistance information from the primary UE. The network node may determine whether to enable the data forwarding operation based on certain conditions. For example, for some services that require a high data rate, the network node may directly enable the data forwarding operation.

[0039] In step 211, the primary UE can transmit assistance information to the network node. The assistance information can indicate its preference to disable / turn off the data forwarding operation with the collaborating UE. The primary UE can determine the preference based on at least one of a power state, a data state, and a connection state with the collaborating UE. For example, if the remaining power and / or buffered data are less than a threshold value, or the connection between the primary UE and the collaborating UE is lost or becomes poor, the primary UE can indicate its preference to disable / turn off the data forwarding operation.

[0040] In step 212, the network node can transmit an RRC reconfiguration message to the primary UE to disable the data forwarding operation. In step Petition 870250090208, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 27 / 57 14 / 29 In step 212a, the primary UE can transmit a disconnect indication to the collaborating UE if the data forwarding operation is disabled. In step 213, the primary UE can transmit an RRC reconfiguration completion message to the network node.

[0041] In some implementations, the network node may disable the data forwarding operation directly, without indication or assistance information from the primary UE. The network node may determine to disable the data forwarding operation according to certain conditions. For example, for some services that require only low data rates, the network node may directly disable the data forwarding operation to save power consumption on the primary UE. Illustrative implementations

[0042] FIG. 3 illustrates an example of a communication system 300 containing at least one example of a communication device 310 and an example of a network device 320, according to an implementation of the present disclosure. Each of the communication devices 310 and network devices 320 can perform various functions to implement schemes, techniques, processes, and methods described herein relating to the improvement of MIMO operation in mobile communications, including the various schemes described above in relation to various proposed designs, concepts, schemes, systems, and methods, including scenarios / schemes described above, as well as the 400 process and the 500 process described below.

[0043] The 310 communication device may be part of an electronic device, which may be a UE, such as a portable or mobile device, a wearable device, a wireless communication device or a computing device. For example, the 310 communication device may be implemented in a smartphone, a smartwatch, smart glasses, a device Petition 870250090208, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 28 / 57 15 / 29 augmented reality / virtual reality (AR / VR) devices, a personal digital assistant, a digital camera, or a computing device such as a tablet, laptop, or notebook. The 310 communication device may also be part of a machine-type device, which may be an IoT, NB-IoT, or IIoT device, such as a stationary or fixed device, a household appliance, a wired communication device, or a computing device. For example, the 310 communication device may be implemented in a smart thermostat, a smart refrigerator, a smart lock, a wireless speaker, or a home control center.Alternatively, the communication device 310 may be implemented in the form of one or more integrated circuit (IC) chips, such as, by way of example and without limitation, one or more single-core processors, one or more multi-core processors, one or more reduced instruction set processors (RISCs), or one or more complex instruction set processors (CISCs). The communication device 310 may include at least some of the components shown in FIG. 3, such as, for example, a processor 312. The communication device 310 may also include one or more other components not relevant to the scheme proposed in this disclosure (for example, internal power supply, display device and / or user interface device) and, therefore, such components of the communication device 310 are not shown in FIG. 3 nor described below, in the interest of simplicity and brevity.

[0044] The 320 network appliance can be part of a network appliance, which can be a network node such as a satellite, a base station, a small cell, a router, or a gateway. For example, the 320 network appliance can be deployed on an eNodeB in an LTE network, on a gNB in ​​a 5G / NR, IoT, NB-IoT, or IIoT network, or on a satellite or base station. Petition 870250090208, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 29 / 57 16 / 29 based on a 6G network. Alternatively, the network device 320 may be implemented in the form of one or more IC chips, such as, by way of example and without limitation, one or more single-core processors, one or more multicore processors, or one or more RISC or CISC processors. The network device 320 may include at least some of the components shown in FIG. 3, such as, for example, a 322 processor. The network device 320 may also include one or more other components not relevant to the scheme proposed in this disclosure (for example, internal power supply, display device and / or user interface device) and, therefore, such components of the network device 320 are not shown in FIG. 3 nor described below, in the interest of simplicity and brevity.

[0045] In one aspect, each of the 312 processor and the 322 processor can be implemented in the form of one or more single-core processors, one or more multi-core processors, or one or more CISC processors. That is, although the singular term "one processor" is used herein to refer to the 312 processor and the 322 processor, each of the 312 processor and the 322 processor may include multiple processors in some implementations and a single processor in other implementations, according to the present disclosure.In another aspect, each of the 312 processor and the 322 processor can be implemented in hardware (and optionally, firmware) form with electronic components including, by way of example and without limitation, one or more transistors, one or more diodes, one or more capacitors, one or more resistors, one or more inductors, one or more memristors and / or one or more varactors configured and arranged to achieve specific purposes in accordance with this disclosure. In other words, in at least some implementations, each of the 312 processor and the processor... Petition 870250090208, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 30 / 57 17 / 29 322 is a special-purpose machine, designed, arranged and configured specifically to perform specific tasks, including self-contained reliability enhancements in a device (e.g., represented by the communication apparatus 310) and in a network (e.g., represented by the network apparatus 320), according to various implementations of this disclosure.

[0046] In some implementations, the communication device 310 may also include a transceiver 316 coupled to processor 312 and capable of wirelessly transmitting and receiving data. In some implementations, the transceiver 316 may be capable of wirelessly communicating with different types of wireless networks of different radio access technologies (RATs). In some implementations, the transceiver 316 may be equipped with a plurality of antenna ports (not shown), such as four antenna ports. That is, the transceiver 316 may be equipped with multiple transmit antennas and multiple receive antennas for MIMO wireless communications. In some implementations, the network device 320 may also include a transceiver 326 coupled to processor 322. The transceiver 326 may include a transceiver capable of wirelessly transmitting and receiving data.In some implementations, the 326 transceiver may be able to communicate wirelessly with different types of UEs / wireless networks from different RATs. In some implementations, the 326 transceiver may be equipped with a plurality of antenna ports (not shown), such as four antenna ports. That is, the 326 transceiver may be equipped with multiple transmit antennas and multiple receive antennas for MIMO wireless communications.

[0047] In some implementations, the communication device 310 may also include a memory 314 coupled to the processor 312 and capable of being accessed by the processor 312 and Petition 870250090208, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, p. 31 / 57 18 / 29 store data. In some implementations, the network appliance 320 may also include a memory 324 coupled to the processor 322 and capable of being accessed by the processor 322 and storing data. Each of the memory 314 and memory 324 may include a type of random access memory (RAM), such as dynamic RAM (DRAM), static RAM (SRAM), thyristor RAM (T-RAM), and / or zero-capacitor RAM (Z-RAM). Alternatively, or additionally, each of the memory 314 and memory 324 may include a type of read-only memory (ROM), such as mask ROM, programmable ROM (PROM), erasable programmable ROM (EPROM), and / or electrically erasable programmable ROM (EEPROM). Alternatively, or additionally, each of the 314 and 324 memory modules may include a type of non-volatile random access memory (NVRAM), such as flash memory, solid-state memory, ferroelectric RAM (FeRAM), magnetoresistive RAM (MRAM), and / or phase-change memory.Alternatively, or additionally, each of memory slots 314 and memory slots 324 can include a UICC.

[0048] According to certain schemes proposed in accordance with this disclosure relating to the enhancement of MIMO operation in mobile communications, processor 312 may receive, via transceiver 316, a capacity query on a first frequency from network device 320. Processor 312 may transmit, via transceiver 316, a capacity report to network device 320 to indicate the supportability of a data forwarding operation with a collaborating device on a second frequency. Processor 312 may receive, via transceiver 316, a configuration to enable or disable the data forwarding operation with the collaborating device. Processor 312 may perform the data forwarding operation according to the configuration. Petition 870250090208, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 32 / 57 19 / 29

[0049] In some implementations, processor 312 can report, via transceiver 316, at least one supported frequency band combination for data forwarding operation to network device 320.

[0050] In some implementations, processor 312 may receive, via transceiver 316, a list of candidate data forwarding frequencies from network device 320. Processor 312 may perform a measurement on the list of candidate data forwarding frequencies. Processor 312 may transmit, via transceiver 316, a measurement result to network device 320. The measurement result may be transmitted according to a reporting event.

[0051] In some implementations, processor 312 may receive, via transceiver 316, a resource allocation for the data forwarding operation originating from network device 320. Processor 312 may perform the data forwarding operation according to the resource allocation.

[0052] In some implementations, processor 312 can transmit, via transceiver 316, a preference to enable or disable the data forwarding operation to network device 320.

[0053] In some implementations, the 312 processor can determine the preference based on at least one of a power state, a data state, and a connection state with the collaborating device.

[0054] In some implementations, processor 312 may indicate at least one of a MIMO layer capability and a maximum transmission power capability to network appliance 320 if data forwarding operation is enabled.

[0055] In some implementations, processor 312 can transmit, via transceiver 316, a connection indication to Petition 870250090208, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 33 / 57 20 / 29 collaborating device if the data forwarding operation is enabled.

[0056] In some implementations, processor 312 may transmit a shutdown indication to the collaborating device if the data forwarding operation is disabled.

[0057] In some implementations, the data forwarding operation can be enabled to increase at least one between the MIMO performance and the maximum transmission power of the communication device 310.

[0058] In some implementations, processor 322 can transmit, via transceiver 326, a capacity query on a first frequency to communication device 310. Processor 322 can receive, via transceiver 326, a capacity report from communication device 310 to indicate the supportability of a data forwarding operation with a collaborating device on a second frequency. Processor 322 can transmit, via transceiver 326, a configuration to enable or disable the data forwarding operation with the collaborating device.

[0059] In some implementations, processor 322 can receive, via transceiver 326, at least one combination of frequency bands supported for data forwarding operation from communication device 310.

[0060] In some implementations, processor 322 can configure a list of candidate data forwarding frequencies for communication device 310. Processor 322 can receive, via transceiver 326, a measurement result associated with the list of candidate data forwarding frequencies from communication device 310. Petition 870250090208, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 34 / 57 21 / 29

[0061] In some implementations, processor 322 can determine at least one data forwarding frequency for the data forwarding operation according to the measurement result. Processor 322 can configure the determined data forwarding frequency for communication device 310.

[0062] In some implementations, processor 322 may configure a resource allocation for the data forwarding operation to communication device 310. The resource allocation may include at least one frequency reserved for the data forwarding operation.

[0063] In some implementations, processor 322 may receive, via transceiver 326, a preference to enable or disable the data forwarding operation from communication device 310.

[0064] In some implementations, processor 322 can determine the setting to enable or disable the data forwarding operation according to preference.

[0065] In some implementations, processor 322 can receive, via transceiver 326, at least one of a MIMO layer capability and a maximum transmission power capability from the communication device 310 if data forwarding operation is enabled.

[0066] In some implementations, processor 322 may configure a call prompt to the collaborating device if data forwarding is enabled.

[0067] In some implementations, processor 322 may configure a shutdown indication for the collaborating device if the data forwarding operation is disabled. Petition 870250090208, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 35 / 57 22 / 29 Illustrative processes

[0068] FIG. 4 illustrates an example process 400 according to an implementation of the present disclosure. Process 400 may be an example implementation of the above scenarios / schemes, either partial or complete, with respect to enhancing MIMO operation with the present disclosure. Process 400 may represent an aspect of the implementation of functionalities of the communication device 310. Process 400 may include one or more operations, actions, or functions as illustrated by one or more of blocks 410, 420, 430, and 440. Although illustrated as distinct blocks, several blocks of process 400 may be divided into additional blocks, combined into fewer blocks, or eliminated, depending on the desired implementation. Furthermore, the blocks of process 400 may be executed in the order shown in FIG. 4 or, alternatively, in a different order. Process 400 may be implemented by the communication device 310 or by any suitable UEs or machine-type devices.For illustrative purposes only and without limitation, process 400 is described below in the context of communication device 310. Process 400 can start in block 410.

[0069] In block 410, process 400 may involve processor 312 of communication device 310 receiving a capacity query on a first frequency originating from a network node. Process 400 may proceed from block 410 to block 420.

[0070] In block 420, process 400 may involve processor 312 transmitting a capacity report to the network node to indicate the supportability of a data forwarding operation with a collaborating device on a second frequency. Process 400 may proceed from block 420 to block 430.

[0071] In block 430, process 400 may involve the Petition 870250090208, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 36 / 57 23 / 29 Processor 312 is receiving a configuration to enable or disable data forwarding operations with the collaborating device. Process 400 can proceed from block 430 to block 440.

[0072] In block 440, process 400 may involve processor 312 performing the data forwarding operation according to the configuration.

[0073] In some implementations, the first-layer CSI or the second-layer CSI may comprise a first subset of channel parameters including at least one base selection in at least one of the spatial, frequency, and Doppler domains.

[0074] In some implementations, process 400 may involve processor 312 reporting at least one supported frequency band combination for the data forwarding operation to the network node.

[0075] In some implementations, process 400 may involve processor 312 receiving a list of candidate data forwarding frequencies from the network node. Process 400 may also involve processor 312 performing a measurement on the list of candidate data forwarding frequencies. Process 400 may also involve processor 312 transmitting a measurement result to the network node.

[0076] In some implementations, process 400 may involve processor 312 transmitting the measurement result according to a reporting event.

[0077] In some implementations, process 400 may involve processor 312 receiving a resource allocation for the data forwarding operation from the network node. In some implementations, process 400 may also involve processor 312 performing the data forwarding operation according to the resource allocation. Petition 870250090208, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 37 / 57 24 / 29

[0078] In some implementations, process 400 may involve processor 312 transmitting a preference to enable or disable the data forwarding operation to the network node.

[0079] In some implementations, process 400 may involve processor 312 determining the preference based on at least one of a power state, a data state, and a connection state with the collaborating device.

[0080] In some implementations, process 400 may involve processor 312 indicating at least one of a MIMO layer capability and a maximum transmission power capability to the network node if the data forwarding operation is enabled.

[0081] In some implementations, process 400 may involve processor 312 transmitting a connection indication to the collaborating device if the data forwarding operation is enabled.

[0082] In some implementations, process 400 may involve processor 312 transmitting a shutdown indication to the collaborating device if the data forwarding operation is disabled.

[0083] FIG. 5 illustrates an example of process 500 according to an implementation of the present disclosure. Process 500 may be an example implementation of the above scenarios / schemes, either partial or complete, in relation to the enhancement of MIMO operation with the present disclosure. Process 500 may represent an aspect of the implementation of network appliance 320 functionalities. Process 500 may include one or more operations, actions, or functions as illustrated by one or more of blocks 510, 520, 530, and 540. Although illustrated as distinct blocks, several blocks of process 500 may be divided into additional blocks, combined into fewer blocks, or eliminated, depending on the Petition 870250090208, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 38 / 57 25 / 29 desired implementation. Furthermore, the blocks of process 500 can be executed in the order shown in FIG. 5 or, alternatively, in a different order. Process 500 can be implemented by network appliance 320 or by any suitable base station or network node. For illustrative purposes only and without limitation, process 500 is described below in the context of network appliance 320. Process 500 can start in block 510.

[0084] In block 510, process 500 may involve processor 322 of network appliance 320 transmitting a capacity query on a first frequency to a primary appliance. Process 500 may proceed from block 510 to block 520.

[0085] In block 520, process 500 may involve processor 322 receiving a capacity report from the primary device to indicate the supportability of a data forwarding operation with a collaborating device on a second frequency. Process 500 may proceed from block 520 to block 530.

[0086] In block 530, process 500 may involve processor 322 transmitting a configuration to enable or disable data forwarding operation with the collaborating device.

[0087] In some implementations, process 500 may involve processor 322 receiving at least one supported frequency band combination for data forwarding operation from the primary device.

[0088] In some implementations, process 500 may involve processor 322 configuring a list of candidate data forwarding frequencies for the primary device. Process 500 may also involve processor 322 receiving a measurement result associated with the list of candidate data forwarding frequencies. Petition 870250090208, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 39 / 57 26 / 29 originating from the primary apparatus.

[0089] In some implementations, process 500 may involve processor 322 determining at least one data forwarding frequency for the data forwarding operation according to the measurement result. Process 500 may also involve processor 322 configuring the determined data forwarding frequency for the primary device.

[0090] In some implementations, process 500 may involve processor 322 configuring a resource allocation for the data forwarding operation to the primary device. The resource allocation may comprise at least one frequency reserved for the data forwarding operation.

[0091] In some implementations, process 500 may involve processor 322 receiving a preference to enable or disable the data forwarding operation originating from the primary device.

[0092] In some implementations, process 500 may involve processor 322 determining the configuration to enable or disable the data forwarding operation according to preference.

[0093] In some implementations, process 500 may involve processor 322 receiving at least one of a MIMO layer capability and a maximum transmission power capability from the primary device if data forwarding operation is enabled.

[0094] In some implementations, process 500 may involve processor 322 setting a call indication to the collaborating device if the data forwarding operation is enabled.

[0095] In some implementations, process 500 may involve processor 322 by setting an indication of Petition 870250090208, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pp. 40 / 57 27 / 29 Turn off the collaborator's device if the data forwarding operation is disabled. Additional notes

[0096] The material described here sometimes illustrates different components contained within, or connected to, different other components. It should be understood that such represented architectures are merely examples, and that, in fact, many other architectures can be implemented to achieve the same functionality. In a conceptual sense, any arrangement of components to achieve the same functionality is effectively associated, so that the desired functionality is obtained. Thus, any two components combined here to achieve a given functionality can be seen as associated with each other, so that the desired functionality is obtained, regardless of architectures or intermediate components.Similarly, any two components thus associated can also be viewed as being operably connected or operably coupled to each other to achieve the desired functionality, and any two components capable of being thus associated can also be viewed as being operably coupled to each other to achieve the desired functionality. Specific examples of operably coupled components include, but are not limited to, physically connectable components and / or physically interacting components and / or components capable of wireless interaction and / or wirelessly interacting components and / or logically interacting components and / or logically connectable components.

[0097] Furthermore, with regard to the use of any plural and / or singular terms herein, those skilled in the art may convert from plural to singular and / or from singular to plural as appropriate to the context and / or application. As Petition 870250090208, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, p. 41 / 57 28 / 29 various singular / plural permutations can be expressly stated here for the sake of clarity.

[0098] Furthermore, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that, in general, the terms used herein, and especially in the appended claims, for example, in the bodies of the appended claims, are generally intended as open terms, for example, the term including should be interpreted as including, but not limited to, the term having should be interpreted as having at least, the term includes should be interpreted as includes, but not limited to, etc. It will further be understood by those skilled in the art that, if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is intended, such intention will be explicitly recited in the claim, and, in the absence of such recitation, no such intention is present. For example, as an aid to understanding, the appended claims may contain the use of the introductory phrases at least one and one or more to introduce recitations of claims.However, the use of such phrases should not be interpreted as if the introduction of a claim recitation by the indefinite articles "a" or "an" limits any specific claim containing such introduced recitation to implementations containing only such recitation, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrases "a or more" or "at least one" and indefinite articles such as "a" or "an," for example, "a" and / or "an" should be interpreted as meaning "at least one" or "one or more"; the same applies to the use of definite articles to introduce claims recitations. Furthermore, even if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is explicitly recited, those skilled in the art will recognize that such recitation should be interpreted as meaning "at least the number recited," for example, "a." Petition 870250090208, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, p. 42 / 57 "29 / 29 simple recitation of two recitations," without other modifiers, means at least two recitations, or two or more recitations. Furthermore, in cases where a convention analogous to "at least one of A, B, and C, etc." is used, such a construction is generally understood to mean that someone versed in the technique would understand the convention; for example, a system having "at least one of A, B, and C" would include, but not be limited to, systems that have only A, only B, only C, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and / or A, B, and C together, etc. In cases where a convention analogous to "at least one of A, B, or C, etc." In general, such a construction is understood to mean that someone versed in the technique would understand the convention; for example, "a system having at least one of A, B, or C" would include, but not be limited to, systems that have only A, only B, only C, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and / or A, B, and C together, etc.It will further be understood by those skilled in the art that virtually any disjunctive word and / or phrase presenting two or more alternative terms, whether in the description, claims, or drawings, should be understood as contemplating the possibilities of including one of the terms, either of the terms, or both terms. For example, the sentence “A or B” will be understood as including the possibilities of “A” or “B” or “A and B”.

[0099] From the foregoing, it will be appreciated that various implementations of the present disclosure have been described herein for illustrative purposes, and that various modifications may be made without departing from the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. Thus, the various implementations disclosed herein are not intended to be limiting, the true scope and spirit being indicated by the following claims. Petition 870250090208, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, p. 43 / 57

Claims

1 / 4 CLAIMS 1. A method characterized in that it comprises: receiving, by a device processor, a capacity query on a first frequency from a network node; transmitting, by the processor, a capacity report to the network node to indicate the supportability of a data forwarding operation with a collaborating device on a second frequency; receiving, by the processor, a configuration to enable or disable the data forwarding operation with the collaborating device; and performing, by the processor, the data forwarding operation according to the configuration.

2. A method according to claim 1, characterized in that it further comprises: the processor reporting at least one supported frequency band combination for the operation of forwarding data to the network node.

3. A method according to claim 1, characterized in that it further comprises: receiving, by the processor, a list of candidate data forwarding frequencies from the network node; performing, by the processor, a measurement on the list of candidate data forwarding frequencies; and transmitting, by the processor, a measurement result to the network node.

4. Method, according to claim 3, characterized in that the measurement result is transmitted according to a reporting event.

5. Method, according to claim 1, characterized in that it further comprises: receiving, by the processor, a resource allocation for the Petition 870250090208, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 44 / 57 2 / 4 data forwarding operation from a network node; performing, by the processor, the data forwarding operation in accordance with the resource allocation.

6. Method according to claim 1, characterized in that it further comprises: transmitting, by the processor, a preference to enable or disable the data forwarding operation to the network node.

7. Method according to claim 6, characterized in that it further comprises: determining, by the processor, the preference according to at least one of a power status, a data status and a connection status with the collaborating device.

8. Method, according to claim 1, characterized in that it further comprises: indicating, by the processor, at least one of a multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) layer capability and a maximum transmission power capability to the network node in the case where the data forwarding operation is enabled.

9. Method according to claim 1, characterized in that it further comprises: transmitting, by the processor, an activation indication to the collaborating device if the data forwarding operation is enabled; or transmitting, by the processor, a deactivation indication to the collaborating device if the data forwarding operation is disabled.

10. Method, according to claim 1, characterized in that the data forwarding operation is enabled to increase at least one of a multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) performance and a maximum transmission power. Petition 870250090208, dated 10 / 03 / 2025, p. 45 / 57 3 / 4 11. A method characterized by the fact that it comprises: transmitting, by a processor of a network node, a capacity query on a first frequency from a primary device; receiving, by the processor, a capacity report from the primary device to indicate the supportability of a data forwarding operation with a collaborating device on a second frequency; and transmitting, by the processor, a configuration to enable or disable the data forwarding operation with the collaborating device.

12. Method according to claim 11, characterized in that it further comprises: receiving, by the processor, at least one supported frequency band combination for data forwarding operation from the primary device.

13. Method according to claim 11, characterized in that it further comprises: configuring, by the processor, a list of candidate data forwarding frequencies for the primary device; and receiving, by the processor, a measurement result associated with the list of candidate data forwarding frequencies from the primary device.

14. Method according to claim 13, characterized in that it further comprises: determining, by the processor, at least one data forwarding frequency for the data forwarding operation according to the measurement result; and configuring, by the processor, the determined data forwarding frequency for the primary device.

15. Method, according to claim 11, characterized in that it further comprises: configuring, by the processor, a resource allocation for the operation of forwarding data to the primary device.

16. Method according to claim 15, characterized in that the resource allocation comprises at least one frequency reserved for the data forwarding operation.

17. Method according to claim 11, characterized in that it further comprises: receiving, by the processor, a preference to enable or disable the data forwarding operation from the primary device.

18. Method according to claim 17, characterized in that it further comprises: determining, by the processor, the configuration to enable or disable the data forwarding operation according to preference.

19. Method according to claim 11, characterized in that it further comprises: receiving, by the processor, at least one of a multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) layer capability and a maximum transmission power capability from the primary device in the case where data forwarding operation is enabled.

20. Method, according to claim 11, characterized in that it further comprises: configuring, by the processor, an activation indication for the collaborating device in the case of the data forwarding operation being enabled; or configuring, by the processor, a deactivation indication for the collaborating device in the case of the data forwarding operation being disabled. Petition 870250090208, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pp. 47 / 57

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