Uplink channel synchronization based on arrival time

Abstract

A method, apparatus, and computer-readable storage medium are provided for using a time-of-arrival (TOA) based T TOAVAL or T TOA A value is used for uplink-to-downlink channel synchronization at a user equipment (UE), which synchronization is required to establish an RRC connection and / or maintain an RRC connection due to UE mobility. In an example implementation, the method may include determining, by the user equipment (UE), a first time of arrival (TOA)-based timing advance index value; and performing, by the user equipment (UE), uplink channel synchronization based on at least the first time of arrival (TOA)-based timing advance index value.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application is related to international application number PCT / US2019 / 050097 filed on September 6, 2019, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] The present specification relates to wireless communications, and in particular to synchronous wireless communications. Background Art

[0004] A communication system may be a facility that enables communication between two or more nodes or devices, such as fixed or mobile communication devices. Signals may be carried on wired or wireless carriers.

[0005] An example of a cellular communication system is the architecture being standardized by the Third Generation Partnership Project (3GPP). The latest development in this area is often referred to as the Long Term Evolution (LTE) of the Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS) radio access technology. EUTRA (Evolved UMTS Terrestrial Radio Access) is the air interface of the 3GPP Long Term Evolution (LTE) upgrade path for mobile networks. In LTE, a base station or access point (AP), which is referred to as an enhanced node AP or an evolved node B (eNB), provides wireless access within a coverage area or cell. In LTE, a mobile device or mobile station is referred to as a user equipment (UE). LTE includes many improvements or developments.

[0006] The development of 5G New Radio (NR) is part of the ongoing mobile broadband evolution process to meet 5G requirements, similar to the earlier evolution of 3G and 4G wireless networks. In addition, 5G targets emerging use cases beyond mobile broadband. 5G aims to significantly improve wireless performance, which can include new levels of data rate, latency, reliability and security. 5G NR can also be extended to effectively connect the massive Internet of Things (IoT) and can provide new types of mission-critical services. Ultra-reliable and low-latency communication (URLLC) devices can require high reliability and very low latency. Summary of the invention

[0007] A method, apparatus, and computer-readable storage medium are provided for time of arrival (TOA) based uplink channel synchronization.

[0008] In one implementation, an example method may include determining, by a user equipment (UE), a first time of arrival (TOA)-based timing advance index value; and performing, by the user equipment (UE), uplink synchronization based at least on the first time of arrival (TOA)-based timing advance index value.

[0009] In another implementation, an example method may include determining, by a network node, a first timing advance (TA) correction value; receiving, by the network node, a first time of arrival (TOA) based timing advance index value from a user equipment (UE); and verifying, by the network node, the first time of arrival (TOA) based timing advance index value received from the user equipment (UE), the verification being based at least on comparing the first time of arrival (TOA) based timing advance (TA) index value and the first timing advance (TA) value. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] Figure 1 is a block diagram of a wireless network according to an example implementation.

[0011] Figure 2A Signal propagation delay characteristics for a high speed example scenario according to an example implementation are illustrated.

[0012] Figure 2B Signal propagation delay characteristics as a function of time according to additional example implementations are illustrated.

[0013] Figure 2C Signal propagation delay characteristics according to another additional example implementation are illustrated.

[0014] Figure 3 FIG. 1 illustrates a method for using a T based on time of arrival (TOA) according to an additional example implementation. TOAVAL An active graph of the values ​​as timing advance (TA) values ​​used for uplink channel synchronization.

[0015] 4A to 4H sT in various scenarios according to some example implementations X (X) function.

[0016] Figure 5 is an illustration of using a time of arrival (TOA) based T TOAVAL Flowchart showing a value used as a timing advance (TA) value for uplink channel synchronization.

[0017] Figure 6 is an illustration of using a time of arrival (TOA) based T TOAVAL Flowchart showing a value used as a timing advance (TA) value for uplink channel synchronization.

[0018] Figure 7 is a block diagram of a node or wireless station (eg, a base station / access point or a mobile station / user equipment / UE) according to an example implementation. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0019] Figure 1 is a block diagram of a wireless network 130 according to an example implementation. Figure 1In a wireless network 130, user devices (UEs) 131, 132, 133, and 135, which may also be referred to as mobile stations (MSs) or user equipment (UEs), may be connected (and communicate) with a base station (BS) 134, which may also be referred to as an access point (AP), an enhanced node B (eNB), or a network node. At least part of the functionality of an access point (AP), a base station (BS), or an (e) node B (eNB) may also be performed by any node, server, or host operably coupled to a transceiver, such as a remote radio head. BS (or AP) 134 provides wireless coverage within a cell 136, including providing wireless coverage to user devices 131, 132, 133, and 135. Although only four user devices are shown connected or attached to BS 134, any number of user devices may be provided. BS 134 is also connected to a core network 150 via an S1 interface 151. This is just one simple example of a wireless network, and other examples may be used.

[0020] User equipment (user terminal, user equipment (UE)) may refer to a portable computing device including a wireless mobile communication device operating with or without a subscriber identity module (SIM), such as but not limited to the following types of devices: mobile station (MS), mobile phone, cellular phone, smart phone, personal digital assistant (PDA), handheld device, device using a wireless modem (alarm or measurement device, etc.), laptop computer and / or touch screen computer, tablet computer, tablet phone, game console, notebook computer and multimedia device or any other wireless device. It should be understood that a user equipment may also be an almost exclusively uplink-only device, an example of which is a camera or video camera that loads images or video clips to a network.

[0021] In LTE (as an example), the core network 150 may be referred to as an evolved packet core (EPC), which may include: a mobility management entity (MME), which may handle or assist with mobility / handover of user equipment between BSs; one or more gateways, which may forward data and control signals between the BSs and a packet data network or the Internet; and other control functions or blocks.

[0022] In addition, as illustrative examples, various example implementations or techniques described herein may be applied to various types of user equipment or data service types, or may be applied to user equipment running multiple applications thereon, which may be different data service types. New radio (5G) developments may support a variety of different applications or a variety of different data service types, such as, for example: machine type communication (MTC), enhanced machine type communication (eMTC), Internet of Things (IoT) and / or narrowband IoT user equipment, enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB), and ultra-reliable low latency communication (URLLC).

[0023] IoT may refer to a growing set of objects that may have internet or network connectivity, allowing them to send and receive information to and from other network devices. For example, many sensor-type applications or devices may monitor physical conditions or states, and may send reports to servers or other network devices—for example, when events occur. Machine-type communications (MTC or machine-to-machine communications) may be characterized, for example, by fully automated data generation, exchange, processing, and actuation between intelligent machines, with or without human intervention. Enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB) may support much higher data rates than are currently available in LTE.

[0024] Ultra-Reliable Low Latency Communication (URLLC) is a new type of data service or a new use case that can be supported by a new radio (5G) system. This enables emerging new applications and services such as industrial automation, autonomous driving, vehicle safety, e-health services, etc. As an illustrative example, 3GPP aims to provide up to, for example, 1ms U-plane (user / data plane) latency connectivity with a reliability of 1 to 1e-5. Thus, for example, a URLLC user equipment / UE may require a significantly lower block error rate and low latency than other types of user equipment / UE. Thus, for example, a URLLC UE (or a URLLC application on a UE) may require a shorter latency than an eMBB UE (or an eMBB application running on a UE).

[0025] Various example implementations may be applied to a variety of wireless technologies or wireless networks, such as LTE, LTE-A, 5G, IoT, MTC, eMTC, eMBB, URLLC, etc., or any other wireless network or wireless technology. These example networks, technologies, or data service types are provided only as illustrative examples.

[0026] Multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) may refer to a technique for increasing the capacity of a radio link using multiple transmit and receive antennas to exploit multipath propagation. MIMO may include the use of multiple antennas at a transmitter and / or receiver. MIMO may include a multidimensional method for sending and receiving two or more unique data streams through one radio channel. For example, MIMO may refer to a technique for simultaneously sending and receiving more than one data signal on the same radio channel by exploiting multipath propagation. According to an illustrative example, multi-user multiple-input multiple-output (multi-user MIMO or MU-MIMO) enhances MIMO technology by allowing a base station (BS) or other wireless node to simultaneously send or receive multiple streams to different user devices or UEs, which may include simultaneously sending a first stream to a first UE and a second stream to a second UE via the same (or common or shared) set of physical resource blocks (PRBs) (e.g., where each PRB may include a set of time-frequency resources).

[0027] In addition, the BS can use precoding to send data to the UE (based on the UE's precoder matrix or precoder vector). For example, the UE can receive a reference signal or a pilot signal, and can determine a quantized version of the DL channel estimate, and then provide the BS with an indication of the quantized DL channel estimate. The BS can determine a precoder matrix based on the quantized channel estimate, wherein the precoder matrix can be used to concentrate or guide the transmitted signal energy in the optimal channel direction for the UE. In addition, each UE can be determined using a decoder matrix, for example, wherein the UE can receive a reference signal from the BS, determine a channel estimate for the DL channel, and then determine a decoder matrix for the DL channel based on the DL channel estimate. For example, the precoder matrix can indicate the antenna weights (e.g., the amplitude / gain and phase of each weight) to be applied to the antenna array of the transmitting wireless device. Similarly, the decoder matrix can indicate the antenna weights (e.g., the amplitude / gain and phase of each weight) to be applied to the antenna array of the receiving wireless device. This also applies to the UL when the UE sends data to the BS.

[0028] For example, according to an example aspect, a receiving wireless user device may use interference suppression combining (IRC) to determine a precoder matrix, wherein the user device may receive reference signals (or other signals) from multiple BSs (e.g., and may measure the signal strength, signal power, or other signal parameters of the signals received from each BS), and may generate a decoder matrix, which may suppress or reduce signals from one or more interference sources (or interfering cells or BSs), for example, by providing a zero value (or very low antenna gain) in the direction of the interfering signal, so as to increase the signal to interference noise ratio (SINR) of the desired signal. In order to reduce the overall interference from multiple different interference sources, the receiver may use, for example, a linear minimum mean square error interference suppression combining (LMMSE-IRC) receiver to determine the decoding matrix. IRC receivers and LMMSE-IRC receivers are merely examples, and other types of receivers or techniques may be used to determine the decoder matrix. After the decoder matrix has been determined, the receiving UE / user device may apply antenna weights (e.g., each antenna weight includes amplitude and phase) to multiple antennas at the receiving UE or device based on the decoder matrix. Similarly, the precoder matrix may include antenna weights that may be applied to antennas of the transmitting wireless device or node. This also applies to the receiving BS.

[0029] In synchronized wireless communications such as LTE, 5G / NR, etc., a timing advance (TA) correction index value and / or (multiple) updates provided by a network node (e.g., a base station) are essential for synchronizing uplink transmissions, since downlink transmissions are used by user equipment (UE) as a reference for uplink transmissions. Without such a synchronization mechanism, the UE may not be able to access network resources to send data using uplink channel(s).

[0030] A base station (e.g., an eNB, a gNB, etc.) may calculate a TA correction index value (e.g., an initial TA correction index value) and share the TA correction index value with the UE via a TA command during a random access (RA) procedure initiated by the UE. For example, the TA command may be part of a RACH response (e.g., Msg2 of a four-step random access procedure or MsgB of a two-step random access procedure). In addition, the base station may update the TA correction value (or update the initial TA correction value) via a media access control (MAC) control element (CE) update procedure, as defined in a 3GPP specification (e.g., 3GPP 36.214).

[0031] In a terrestrial wireless communication system (e.g., a ground-based wireless communication network), a lower UE speed may allow the TA correction index value and / or MAC CE update to be correctly applied without significant signaling overhead. For example, in LTE, 1TA is approximately 78 meters, and the UE needs to be at / below 280.8 kilometers / hour in the direction of the base station antenna system or in the opposite direction thereto to receive one MAC CE TA update within 1 second. For example, for a 10 ms LTE signal frame size, the MAC CE TA update is applied to 1 frame out of 100 frames, and the other 99 frames may be used for other signaling or data transmission.

[0032] However, in high-speed / ultra-high-speed scenarios, the UE or the base station (or both) may be in motion. In such scenarios, additional TA correction values ​​may be required. However, the additional TA correction values ​​may require more downlink radio resources to maintain synchronization at the UE. In some more such scenarios, for example, in non-terrestrial network (NTN) applications, a satellite with a base station (e.g., a satellite cell) may move at a speed of 7.5 km / s (e.g., 27,000 km / h) and for a UE with a speed of 0 mph (e.g., a stationary UE), approximately 96 MAC CE TA updates per second may be required to maintain the desired synchronization, such as synchronization based on the 3GPP LTE standard as described above.

[0033] Therefore, if the motion pattern of a high-speed base station and / or UE is unknown, the relative speed of the base station and / or UE is changing rapidly, and / or when the position of the base station and / or UE is unknown, it is desirable / needed to effectively apply the TA correction value.

[0034] This disclosure describes the use of T based on time of arrival (TOA) TOAVAL or T TOA A value is used for uplink-to-downlink channel synchronization at a user equipment (UE), which synchronization is required to establish an RRC connection and / or maintain an RRC connection due to UE mobility. In an example implementation, the method may include determining, by the user equipment (UE), a first time of arrival (TOA)-based timing advance index value; and performing, by the user equipment (UE), uplink channel synchronization based on at least the first time of arrival (TOA)-based timing advance index value.

[0035] Figure 2A A signal propagation delay characteristic 200 of a high speed example scenario according to an example implementation is illustrated. In an example implementation, for example, two high speed nodes such as an eNB 202 and a UE 204 may establish a wireless connection, with the eNB 202 being a serving cell for the UE 204.

[0036] In some implementations, for example, the eNB 202 may move much faster than the UE 202. For example, the eNB may move at 4 times the speed of the UE (e.g., V eNB =4V UE V eNB =4V UE ) movement. This is an example implementation and not limiting, as in other example implementations, the eNB and / or UE may move at different speeds. The speed and / or pattern of movement of the node movement is of illustrative nature.

[0037] like Figure 2A As illustrated in FIG. 1 , the eNB 202 may (e.g., continuously) broadcast information including the time T0 at which a signal from the eNB 202 is physically transmitted (e.g., the time at which the signal is physically transmitted or the signal physical transmission time). The signal transmitted from the eNB may be a signal frame, a subframe, a symbol, etc., and may be used by the UE as a reference signal for measuring signal propagation delay. In some implementations, for example, the UE's selection of a signal granularity (e.g., a frame or a subframe or a symbol) may be based on a maximum range and / or a required update rate for a time of arrival (TOA) based measurement.

[0038] For example, in 1 millisecond, light or any other microwave signal travels a distance of 300 kilometers. If a reference signal is sent every 1 millisecond, it may be the only reference signal in a cell within a range of 300 kilometers. This ensures that there is no ambiguity, because there may be only this value in the cell for the entire range. If we reduce this period, for example to 0.5 milliseconds (~150 kilometers away), there may be 2 such signals within the cell range (300 kilometers). This may lead to ambiguity. This issue is important when we consider how the T0 value should be reported, for example in the format: HH:MM:SS:MS:US:NS. If the reference signal is sent unambiguously (for example, 1 millisecond within a 300 km cell range), this can be shortened to US:NS, or if more frequent updates are required, this can be shortened to MS:US:NS.

[0039] Furthermore, this can be related to the relative motion pattern, e.g. Figure 4A-4H For example, if the relative distance between the UE and the eNB has a linear representation (e.g., Figure 4F ), the update rate can be lower because the UE can still predict / calculate the necessary timing adjustments. However, if the motion pattern is nonlinear (e.g. Figure 4D ) or unpredictable characteristics (e.g. Figure 4B ), more frequent updates may be needed because the calculations or predictions may be invalid or incorrect for longer periods of time.

[0040] In addition, the UE can also use other signals besides the signal containing T0 as a reference. This may be possible because the LTE / 5G frame structure is synchronized. For example, an LTE frame (10 ms) is exactly 307200T s , and the UE may only need to 307200T s is added to the last received frame with T0 to get the latest value. With this assumption, any difference in propagation delay can also be detected. Therefore, assuming that the transmission is synchronous, the UE can change the measurement granularity without the need for a higher T0 update rate (t P ).

[0041] In some implementations, the eNB 202 may 00 、T 01 、T 02 The signal is broadcasted at the same place, and the update time period is t P . The UE 204 may be in the time period T 10 、T 11 、T 12 In an example implementation, the update time period t between broadcast signals is P In another example implementation, the update time period t P may differ between broadcast signals (may be referred to as t P mode). For example, update time period t P , for example, in T 00 and T 01 Between and at T 01 and T 02 The time intervals between t and t may be equal (e.g., 5 ms) or they may be different (e.g., 5 ms and 10 ms) and / or the eNB 202 may inform the UE 204 about t P mode. In addition, in some implementations, for example, the signal and / or t P The broadcast of the pattern may be associated with a system information block (SIB) transmission, such as system information block 16 (SIB16) which is also used for global positioning system (GPS) related information (or satellite related positioning information).

[0042] In an example implementation, the eNB 202 sends a 00 The signal issued (eg, sent) at 220 may be sent at time T 10 222 is received by UE 204 and data (eg, T 00 and T 10 ) may be latched (eg, saved, stored, etc.) at the UE 204, for example, in an associated UE register. 10 and T 00 The difference between10 -T 00 ) can correspond to (or be considered to be) the signal propagation delay T X (e.g., microwave signal propagation delay), for example, as shown in [Equation 1] below, assuming that the processing time at the eNB 202 and / or UE 204 is stable and / or can be compensated. For example, in [Equation 1], T X represents the propagation delay time of sample X, T 0X represents the transmission time of sample X at eNB 202, T 1X represents the reception time of sample X at UE 204.

[0043] T X =T 1X -T 0X [Equation 1]

[0044] Figure 2B Illustrated is a signal propagation delay characteristic 240 as a function of time according to an additional example implementation.

[0045] In some implementations, when a node (e.g., eNB 202 / UE 204) is in motion, the propagation delay (or propagation delay time) may vary as a function of time and / or may depend on the relative motion pattern of the node (e.g., speed / heading of the eNB / UE). Figure 2B The propagation delay T in the example implementation is shown in FIG. X How does it change in the time domain? For example, T X It can be expressed in terms of a Transmission Time Interval (TTI) scale to be used in conjunction with Radio Resource Control (RRC) signaling to provide information about the relative distance between nodes (eNB / UE). Figure 2B In the present invention, a TTI of 1 ms is used for illustration / explanation purposes (not as a limitation).

[0046] In an example implementation, the change in propagation delay may be expressed as a function of time, for example, as shown in [Equation 2] below, where S tX (X)250 represents the speed of change of the distance of sample X, T X (X) represents the sample X at t P The propagation delay time at X-1 (X-1) represents the propagation delay of sample X-1, where time X = (X-1) + t P .

[0047] sT X (X) = T X (X)-T X-1 (X-1) [Equation 2]

[0048] in other words, Figure 2B The 240 represents the function sT X (X), which can illustrate how the signal propagation delay is related to the update time period t P and / or the relative movement characteristics of the nodes.

[0049] Figure 2C A signal propagation delay characteristic 280 is illustrated according to an additional example implementation. X A more detailed view of the (X) feature is in Figure 2C is shown in .

[0050] For example, in Figure 2C In the example, the axis related to propagation delay can be scaled and expressed as t Pd X value. In some implementations, for example, t Pd The X value may correspond to a TA unit value of a given standard, for example as specified by [Equation 3] below.

[0051] 1 t Pd X = 1 / 2TA [Equation 3]

[0052] In some implementations, for example, using Figure 2B The speed at which the distance between the eNB 202 and the UE 204 changes can be calculated as shown in the following [Equation 4].

[0053] t1(1)=T1(1)-T0(0)=T1(5ms)-T0(0ms)=6t Pd -10t Pd =-4t Pd [Equation 4]

[0054] That is to say, Figure 2C As shown in P During the time period, which may be 5 ms, the relative distance between the eNB 202 and the UE 204 is reduced by 4t Pd , for this example implementation, this may mean approximately 156m (e.g., equivalent to 2 TAs for LTE). Considering that during 5ms, a microwave signal can travel a distance of approximately 1500 kilometers, unambiguity can be achieved within this range. In some implementations, other coding means (e.g., pattern interleaving patterns, different coding, different carrier frequencies, etc.) may be considered to extend this period and / or maintain unambiguous continuity.

[0055] In addition, if Figure 2C As shown in FIG. 1 , TOA data (eg, signal physical transmission (T0) time) and TOA reference data update rate (eg, t P)) UEs may be able to measure signal propagation delays, which in turn may be used for relative distance assessment. Assuming that the microwave speed of the microwave signal is constant, such distances may be used to calculate TA values ​​(or TA drift). In an example implementation, mode sT X (X) can be determined, especially for frequent t P Updates can be made, which can enable predictions for objects (eNB / UE) moving at high / very high speeds. For example, in fast moving scenarios, synchronization mechanisms based on eNB TA may fail because the provided TA value may not be up to date at the applicable moment, because the distance may have changed more than estimated by the eNB due to processing and transmission delays. If the motion pattern is non-linear or irregular, then frequent t P Updates also mean higher accuracy, since relative distances can be measured more accurately, and the TOA-based TA values ​​provided are then likely to be more accurate.

[0056] Figure 3 FIG. 1 illustrates a method for using a T based on time of arrival (TOA) according to an additional example implementation. TOAVAL The value is an activity diagram 300 as a timing advance (TA) value.

[0057] In some implementations, for example, at 310, the eNB 202 may be in motion and may be configured to send (eg, broadcast) TOA-related data, also referred to as a TOA data set, to the UE 204 (in some implementations the UE 202 may also be in motion).

[0058] At 320, the UE 204 may receive a first TOA data set tp1 transmitted from the eNB at time T0. In an example implementation, the first TOA data set tp1 may include a transmission time T0 and / or an update time period t P UE 204 may receive a first TOA data set tp1 at time T1. After receiving the first TOA data set tp1, UE 204 may determine a propagation delay, such as a first propagation delay T TOA (tp1=0), and T TOA1 To describe the first TOA distance measurement. In an example implementation, T TOA The propagation delay (tp1=0) of can be determined based on [Equation 1], for example, (T1-T0), and stored at the UE.

[0059] In time period t P Thereafter, at 330, UE 204 may receive a second TOA data set tp2. After receiving the second TOA data set tp2, UE 204 may determine the propagation delay based on [Equation 1], for example, the second propagation delay T TOA(tp2=0+tp1). It should be noted that the next measurement is made at the agreed update period, for example, t P In some implementations, for example, UE 204 may also determine the speed sT of the relative distance change based on, for example, [Equation 2] X (X), T TOA (X=2) and is stored at the UE. It should be noted that at least two independent measurements are required to estimate the speed at which the propagation delay changes.

[0060] In the additional time period t P Afterwards, at 340, UE 204 may receive a third TOA data set tp3. After receiving the third TOA data set tp3, UE 204 may determine the acceleration aT of the relative distance change based on, for example, [Equation 5] X (X). In some implementations, for example, TOA-based TA drift prediction and compensation is possible because aT X An (X) vector (eg, value / direction) may be determined.

[0061] aT TOA (X)=(sT X (X)-sT X-1 (X-1)) / t P(X-(X-1)) [Equation 5]

[0062] That is, once the acceleration / deceleration rate of the relative distance change is determined, it is possible to predict and / or compensate for this value at the time it is applicable. For example, when such an uplink transmission arrives at the eNB, it may be completely synchronized even if the distance change changes frequently. The compensation mechanism can use the last position of the UE (e.g., the last distance measurement) and add the necessary correction based on the motion pattern.

[0063] In some implementations, for example, UE 204 may use aT X (X) Characteristics to determine the TOA-based T TOAVALvalue, which can replace the TA in the TA budget because the relative distance change pattern can be provided to the UE. In addition, the UE can apply an appropriate uplink correction value to compensate for the eNB motion so that the UE uplink transmission (e.g., sent from UE 204 to eNB202 at 350) can arrive at the eNB at the new location completely synchronously, for example at 360. This TA drift prediction may be necessary for the next uplink transmission, rather than because it is currently used to apply the changed TA starting from the 6th TTI. In other words, the UE can receive a TA correction from the eNB for uplink channel synchronization. Using the TOA method, the UE can calculate the TOA-based distance to the eNB, which can then be converted into a TA index value form. This method may be more accurate due to better accuracy (Ts). The TOA TA can replace the TA value received from the eNB. The TOA-based timing advance (TA) can include processing (e.g., constant) and transmission (e.g., depending on distance) delays to ensure that such uplink transmissions will arrive at the receiver (e.g., eNB, such as completely synchronously, even in motion) at the appropriate time.

[0064] In some implementations, for example, a T TOAVAL The eNB that uses the value as the TA value for uplink transmissions may not be aware that the UE uses such a procedure because no additional signaling is needed or sent to the eNB. Since the TA drift does not exist (or is within tolerance), the UE uplink transmission received at the eNB can be correctly decoded. As illustrated, high or very high speeds of the UE, eNB, or both can be successfully compensated for for RRC connection establishment and / or maintenance of the connection.

[0065] In some implementations, for example, the above mechanism / process may need to be updated within a relatively short update period t P At least 3 TOA data sets are considered during the process. In addition, since the UE may receive the eNB broadcast (e.g., terrestrial wireless network) before requesting the RRC connection, the proposed mechanism / process may not delay the connection establishment. In other words, if the relative distance change pattern is irregular, three TOA data sets may be required. However, the UE may receive the necessary TOA data sets before requesting the RRC connection, so that there may be no delay (e.g., additional delay) in establishing the connection. It should be noted that if the exact value is required, the delay may last up to 3t P (or 3 measurements - 2t P , counting time between 3 independent measurements).

[0066] Furthermore, the proposed mechanism / process does not require positioning reports and is based on signal propagation delay (or signal propagation delay measurement). The advantage of this approach is that any changes in the propagation medium (e.g., vacuum, air) in the signal propagation delay are naturally compensated. Furthermore, the location of the UE is not revealed (e.g., the location of the UE is not reported to the eNB in ​​order to establish a connection).

[0067] In some implementations, for example, when considering a location-based mechanism for uplink channel synchronization: If the coordinates of both the eNB (X, Y, Z) and the UE (X, Y, Z) are known, the relative distance between the eNB and the UE (when both are in motion) can be determined. In this scenario, for example, the distance can be calculated based on [Equation 6] and it can be described as a location-based TA correction.

[0068]

[0069] In some implementations, the location-based mechanisms described above may be used for authentication and antenna gain optimization.

[0070] In some implementations, for example, TOA-based uplink channel synchronization may be used for TOA-based TAT TOAVAL The value serves as a substitute or replacement for the TA provided by the eNB.

[0071] The TOA method described above can provide a s The distance estimate, in some implementations, has an accuracy of T s It can be, for example, 16 times better than TA (e.g., due to the granularity of TA correction. That is, the uplink channel can be compared with the downlink channel with an accuracy of T s In addition, the UE can apply this correction autonomously and does not require the UE to wait for the MACCE update from the eNB. Therefore, as described above, the TOA-based T TOAVAL The value can be used as the TA value for uplink channel synchronization.

[0072] Figure 4A-4H sT in various scenarios according to some example implementations X (X) function. In an example implementation, it can be as in aT X The prediction of the TOA-based value is determined as specified in (X), where the information about the speed change over a given time may indicate the acceleration of such change. It should be noted that the mechanisms / processes described in this disclosure may also be used to compensate for predicted TA drift in uplink transmissions based on the change history and function. 4A to 4HAs illustrated in FIG. 1 , the mechanisms / processes described in the present disclosure may also be applied to various other scenarios, including, for example, ground-based mobile network applications (e.g., terrestrial network applications) and non-terrestrial network applications (e.g., Figure 2A ).

[0073] In some implementations, for example, Figure 4A and Figure 4B sT for maneuvering (eg, motion patterns can change rapidly) and accelerating an object according to some example implementations X (X)(410, 420).

[0074] In some implementations, for example, Figure 4C and Figure 4D FIG. 1 illustrates an example implementation of an eNB / UE with constant speed but different headings or an eNB with constant speed and a static UE. X (X)(430 and 440).

[0075] In some implementations, for example, Figure 4E and Figure 4F FIG. 1 illustrates a static eNB and a mobile UE (referenced to a terrestrial wireless network) according to some example implementations. X (X)(450 and 460).

[0076] In some implementations, for example, Figure 4G and Figure 4H Illustration of the sT of two moving objects with no difference in relative speed and distance X (X)(470 and 480).

[0077] Figure 5 is a diagram illustrating the use of a time of arrival (TOA) T according to an example implementation. TOAVAL Flowchart 500 of selecting a timing advance (TA) value as a timing advance (TA) value for uplink channel synchronization.

[0078] At 502, UE 204 may be in a radio resource control (RRC)_IDLE state.

[0079] At 504, UE 204 may receive a master information block (MIB) and / or a system information block (SIBs may include SIB1, SIB2, SIB3, ..., and SIB16) from eNB 202. In an example implementation, eNB 202 may broadcast the MIB on a physical broadcast channel (PBCH) and the SIB on a physical downlink shared channel (PDSCH) via an RRC message.

[0080] In some implementations, for example, a SIB (eg, SIB16) may include (a plurality of) TOA data sets. The TOA data set may include a signal physical transmission time (eg, T0) and / or an update period t P , as referenced above Figure 3 As described.

[0081] At 506, UE 204 can determine the TOA data set based on the TOA data set (e.g., as described above with reference to Figure 3 The first, second, and third data sets) and / or other information available at the UE (e.g., signal physical reception time, etc.) to determine, for example, T X 、sT X (X), aT X (X), T TOA 、T TOAVAL One or more of the following (such as reference FIG. 2A to FIG. 2C (as above) and 4A to 4H and Figure 6 (described below).

[0082] At 508, the UE 204 may initiate a random access (RA) procedure, e.g., to transition the UE from the RRC_IDLE state to the RRC_CONNECTED state (or any other state other than the RRC_IDLE state). In some implementations, for example, the UE may initiate the RA procedure in response to data being available for transmission from the UE (or due to any other trigger defined in the 3GPP specification). The UE may use the RA procedure to synchronize with the network (e.g., a cell). In some implementations, the RA procedure may be a four-step RA procedure or a two-step RA procedure, depending on the configuration.

[0083] In an example implementation, the four-step RA process may include Message 1, Message 2, Message 3 and / or Message 4 (also referred to as Msg1, Msg2, Msg3 and Msg4) exchanged between UE 204 and eNB 202 as follows: a) Msg1 - UE 204 selects one of the available preambles and sends it to the eNB - for example using a random access radio network temporary identifier (RA-RNTI) as an identifier; b) Msg2 - eNB 202 sends a random access response (RAR) to the UE on a downlink shared channel (DL-SCH), which is addressed to the RA-RNTI calculated based on the timeslot in which the preamble was sent. In some implementations, Msg2 may include the following information: Temporary Cell RNTI (C-RNTI) - the eNB gives the UE another identifier, which is called a temporary C-RNTI (Cell Radio Network Temporary Identifier) ​​for further communication; Timing Advance Value: the eNB notifies the UE to change its timing, so the UE can compensate for the delay caused by the distance between the UE and the eNB; Uplink Granted Resources: the eNB will assign initial resources to the UE so that the UE can use the UL-SCH (Uplink Shared Channel); c) Msg3 - Using the UL-SCH, the UE can send an RRC Connection Request message to the eNB. The UE can be identified by the temporary C-RNTI (previously assigned by the eNB). In some implementations, Msg3 may include the following - UE Identity (TMSI or random value) - If the UE has previously connected to the same network, the TMSI can be used. Using the TMSI value, the UE can be identified in the core network; if the UE is connected to the network for the first time, a random value is used. A random value or TMSI may be needed because a temporary CRNTI may have been previously allocated to more than one UE due to multiple requests coming at the same time; and Connection Establishment Cause: This indicates why the UE needs to connect to the network; d) Msg4 - The eNB responds to the UE that successfully received the message in step 3 with a contention resolution message. This message is addressed towards the TMSI value or random number (from the previous step), but may include a new C-RNTI that can be used for further communications.

[0084] In another example implementation, the two-step RA procedure may include two messages, messages A and B (referred to as MsgA and MsgB, respectively). In some implementations, in the two-step RACH procedure, MsgA may include Msg1 (preamble signal) and Msg3 (data signal) of the four-step RACH procedure, and MsgB may include Msg2 (random access response) and Msg4 (contention resolution) of the four-step RA procedure.

[0085] At 509, UE 204 may be similar to 506 above but based on the latest TOA data set (e.g., referenced above). Figure 3 The second data set described in the specification) and / or other information available at the UE (such as the signal physical reception time, etc.) to determine, for example, T X 、sT X (X), aT X (X), T TOA 、T TOAVAL One or more of the following (such as reference FIG. 2A to FIG. 2C (as above) and 4A to 4H and Figure 6 (described below). It should be noted that 509 Figure 5 is shown to indicate that the latest TOA measurement is used for RRC. This (three separate measurements used to calculate the values) is not intended to be a limitation. In fact, it can be considered as a continuous process and the latest value can be used if required by RRC. In the case of RA, one TOA data set may be sufficient to initiate the RACH procedure. However, in high-speed scenarios, the UE needs to know the pattern of relative distance changes. If the relative distance changes rapidly, this may mean that a conventional random access procedure may not be sufficient to establish an RRC connection due to high TA drift, as the TA correction value initially provided may be out of date at the time of application. The UE may then use the TOA TA for the random access procedure. By having 3 TOA data sets, the UE can more accurately predict the required TA (and ultimately the uplink channel timing adjustment).

[0086] In some implementations, for example, UE 204 may determine the TOA index value based on [Equation 7] when the distance between UE 204 and eNB 202 changes rapidly and based on [Equation 8] when the distance between UE 204 and eNB 202 does not change rapidly, as shown below. Note that for simplicity, TOAT TOAVAL The application of value can be thought of as TOAT TOA Application of values, where selection can be made according to specified criteria, such as a fast relative distance opportunity value.

[0087]

[0088]

[0089] It should be noted that for simplicity, TOA T TOAVAL The application of values ​​can be considered as TOA T TOA Application of values, where selection can be made according to specified criteria, such as a fast relative distance opportunity value.

[0090] At 510, UE 204 may send Msg1 of the four-step RA procedure to eNB 202. As described above, Msg1 of the RA procedure includes a RA preamble.

[0091] Optionally, in some implementations, for example, UE 204 may include T in Msg1. TOAVAL In some implementations, the eNB 202 may use the T received from the UE. TOAVAL The value may be used to adjust the TA correction index value for subsequent uplink transmissions, as the comparison may indicate a TA drift rate. For example, the UE may report a TOA TA=100, while the eNB may calculate TA=98. Assuming both methods are accurate, this may indicate that the UE may be approaching the eNB (e.g., the UE is moving towards the eNB), as there may be some delay between the independent measurements. This may be particularly important if the UE is unable to successfully complete a random access procedure due to TA drift, e.g., even if the UE applies the provided TA value, its value may be outdated (e.g., in a fast scenario). Additionally, in some implementations, for example, the eNB may verify the T value received from the UE node. TOAVAL value, the verification being performed based at least on a TA value generated at the eNB.

[0092] Optionally, in some implementations, for example, if UE 204 includes T in Msg1 TOAVAL value, it may indicate that UE 204 may be able to use TOA T TOAVAL That is, the TA correction value received in the eNBTA command may not be used or may be omitted, and the UE 204 may be responsible for provisioning and maintaining uplink channel synchronization.

[0093] At 512, UE 204 may receive Msg2 of the four-step RA procedure from eNB 202. As described above, Msg2 of the RA procedure includes a RA response.

[0094] In some implementations, for example, RAR / Msg2 may include a TA command, which may include a TA correction value, which may be determined by T TOAVAL Verify or include T TOAVAL In some implementations, if the UE 204 supports the TOA method, the TA command may be omitted.

[0095] At 514, if the relative distance is not changing rapidly, the UE 204 may apply T TOAVAL The value is used as a substitute for the received TA index value as shown in the following [Equation 9], and if the relative distance changes rapidly, the UE 204 may apply T TOAvalue, as shown in [Equation 10] below. In the example implementation, T TOA The value can be determined based on [Equation 7]. In another example implementation, T TOAVAL The value can be determined based on [Equation 8].

[0096] At 516, UE 204 may send Msg3 to UE 202. As described above, Msg3 of the RA procedure may be an RRC connection request.

[0097] At 518, UE 204 may receive Msg4 from eNB 202. As described above, Msg4 of the RA procedure includes an RRC connection establishment message.

[0098] At 520 , UE 204 sends an RRC Setup Complete message to eNB 202 after successfully receiving Msg4 (and / or any related configuration based on Msg4 ).

[0099] At 522, after receiving Msg4 from eNB 202, UE 204 transitions to RRC_CONNECTED state.

[0100] At 524, in some implementations, for example, the UE 204 may be in motion.

[0101] At 525, UE 204 may be similar to 506 / 509 above but based on the above reference Figure 3 The updated (latest) TOA data set described above and / or other information available at the UE (such as signal physical reception time, etc.) to determine, for example, T X 、sT X (X), aT X (X), T TOA 、T TOAVAL One or more of the following (such as reference FIG. 2A to FIG. 2C (as above) and 4A to 4H and Figure 6 (described below). This shows that the TOA-based T TOAVAL The value application process is a continuous process, the values ​​may be different, and the values ​​can be applied more frequently but directly without additional signaling like MAC CE TA update.

[0102] At 526, UE 204 may send uplink data to eNB 202. In some implementations, for example, UE 204 may send uplink data based on the TOA TA correction index value. The uplink to downlink channel timing adjustment may be based on [Equation 9] or [Equation 10], where the selection may depend on the relative distance change value criteria.

[0103] At 528, UE 204 may receive a medium access control (MAC) control element (CE) TA update from eNB 202. MAC CE TA update is required at the UE for continuous synchronization of the uplink. In an example implementation, the MAC CE TA update is sent to the UE when the UE is in RRC_CONNECTED state.

[0104] At 530, UE 204 may apply T based on, for example, [Equation 9] and [Equation 10] TOAVAL or T TOA Values ​​for continuous uplink synchronization are as follows:

[0105] N TOA =T toaval *16*T S [s] [Equation 9]

[0106] N TOA 2=T toa *16*T S / s] [Equation 10]

[0107] In some implementations, for example, the eNB may measure the quality of UE uplink channel synchronization and may trigger MAC CE TA update if needed to maintain synchronization. Since synchronization may be continuously achieved through TOA-based TA correction, MAC CE TA update may not be triggered or may be triggered less frequently.

[0108] At 532, the UE 204 may send uplink data to the eNB 202. For example, in some implementations, the UE 204 may send uplink data based on the TOA TA index value determined at 530.

[0109] Therefore, as mentioned above, the TOA-based T TOAVAL or T TOA The index value may be used as a TA index value for uplink channel synchronization for sending data on the uplink from the UE 204 to the eNB 202 .

[0110] Figure 6 is an illustration of using a time of arrival (TOA) based T TOAVAL Flowchart 600 of a timing advance (TA) index value.

[0111] At block 610, a UE (e.g., UE 204) may determine a first time of arrival (TOA) based timing advance (TA) index value. In some implementations, for example, UE 204 may determine the first TOA based timing index value (as described above with reference to FIG. 1 ) based on [Equation 8] when the distance between UE 204 and eNB 202 does not change rapidly and based on [Equation 7] when the distance between UE 204 and eNB 202 changes rapidly. Figure 5 described above).

[0112] In some implementations, for example, "fast" movement may be defined as a relative distance change of more than 1 TA (78 m) per second (eg, more than 1 MAC TA update per second may be required in this case).

[0113] At block 620, the UE 204 may perform uplink synchronization based at least on the first time of arrival (TOA) based timing advance index value. In some implementations, for example, uplink-to-downlink synchronization may be determined based on [Equation 9] or [Equation 10].

[0114] It should be noted that in some implementations, the TA command and / or MAC CE TA update sent by the eNB 202 in Msg2 / MsgB of the RA procedure may be omitted (e.g., skipped, not sent, etc.) in the downlink transmission from the eNB, because the UE may use T TOAVAL or T TOA The value is used as the timing advance (TA) index value.

[0115] In some implementations, for example, T calculated by the UE TOAVAL The value may be reported to the eNB to provide feedback to any other application / service, which may be based on information about the TA value(s) available at the eNB level. TOAVAL The value may be reported as part of control signaling.

[0116] In some implementations, for example, the eNB 202 may not calculate or process the timing advance TA correction value for UEs supporting the TOA TA value.

[0117] Therefore, uplink channel synchronization for data transmission from the UE to the eNB may be achieved.

[0118] Example 1. A communication method, comprising: determining, by a user equipment (UE), a first time of arrival (TOA)-based timing advance index value; and performing, by the user equipment (UE), uplink synchronization based at least on the first time of arrival (TOA)-based timing advance index value.

[0119] Example 2. The method according to claim 1 also includes: determining one or more second timing advance index values ​​based on arrival time (TOA) by the user equipment (UE); performing continuous uplink synchronization by the user equipment (UE) at least based on the one or more second timing advance index values ​​based on arrival time (TOA), and the continuous uplink synchronization is performed when the user equipment (UE) is in radio resource control (RRC)_CONNECTED mode.

[0120] Example 3. The method of claim 1 further comprising: sending, by a user equipment (UE), a first time of arrival (TOA) based timing advance index value to a network node.

[0121] Example 4. The method of claim 2 further comprises sending, by a user equipment (UE), one or more second time of arrival (TOA) based timing advance index values ​​to the network node.

[0122] Example 5. The method according to claim 1 also includes: determining whether the distance between the user equipment (UE) and the network node is changing rapidly; in response to determining that the distance between the user equipment (UE) and the network node is changing rapidly, determining a TA index value of a first arrival time (TOA) based on [Equation 7].

[0123] Example 6. The method according to claim 1 also includes: determining whether the distance between the user equipment (UE) and the network node is changing rapidly; in response to determining that the distance between the user equipment (UE) and the network node is not changing rapidly, determining a TA index value of a first arrival time (TOA) based on [Equation 8].

[0124] Example 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the first time of arrival (TOA) based timing advance index value is sent to the network node via a radio resource control (RRC) connection request message of a random access procedure initiated by a user equipment (UE).

[0125] Example 8. The method of claim 7, wherein the message is Msg1 of a random access procedure, and wherein the random access procedure is a four-step random access procedure.

[0126] Example 9. The method of claim 7, wherein the message is MsgA of a random access procedure, and wherein the random access procedure is a two-step random access procedure.

[0127] Example 10. The method of claim 2, wherein one or more second time of arrival (TOA) based timing advance index values ​​are sent to the network node via the user's data when the user equipment (UE) is in a radio resource control (RRC)_CONNECTED state.

[0128] Example 11. An apparatus comprising at least one processor and at least one memory, wherein the at least one memory comprises computer instructions which, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to perform a method according to any one of Examples 1 to 10.

[0129] Example 12. An apparatus comprising components for performing the method according to any one of Examples 1 to 10.

[0130] Example 13. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium having computer-executable program code stored thereon, which, when executed on a computer system, causes the computer system to perform the steps of any one of Examples 1 to 10.

[0131] Example 14. A communication method, comprising: determining a first timing advance (TA) correction value by a network node; receiving a first arrival time (TOA)-based timing advance index value from a user equipment (UE) by the network node; and verifying the first arrival time (TOA)-based timing advance index value received from the user equipment (UE) by the network node, the verification being based at least on comparing the first arrival time (TOA)-based timing advance (TA) index value and the first timing advance (TA) value.

[0132] Example 15. The method according to claim 14 also includes: receiving a second arrival time (TOA)-based timing advance index value from a user equipment (UE) by a network node; and verifying the second arrival time (TOA)-based timing advance index value received from the user equipment (UE) by the network node, the verification being based at least on comparing the second arrival time (TOA)-based timing advance (TA) index value and the second timing advance (TA) value.

[0133] Example 16. The method of claim 14, wherein the first time of arrival (TOA) based timing advance index value is received from a user equipment (UE) during a random access procedure.

[0134] Example 17. The method of claim 15, wherein the second time of arrival (TOA) based timing advance is received from the user equipment (UE) when the user equipment (UE) is in a radio resource control (RRC)_CONNECTED state.

[0135] Example 18. An apparatus comprising at least one processor and at least one memory comprising computer instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to perform a method according to any one of Examples 14 to 17.

[0136] Example 19. An apparatus comprising components for performing the method according to any one of Examples 14 to 17.

[0137] Example 20. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium having computer-executable program code stored thereon, which, when executed on a computer system, causes the computer system to perform the steps of any one of Examples 14 to 17.

[0138] Figure 7 700 is a block diagram of a wireless station (e.g., user equipment (UE) / user device or AP / gNB / MgNB / SgNB) according to an example implementation. The wireless station 700 may include, for example, one or more RF (radio frequency) or wireless transceivers 702A, 702B, each of which includes a transmitter for sending signals and a receiver for receiving signals. The wireless station also includes a processor or control unit / entity (controller) 704 / 708 for executing instructions or software and controlling the sending and receiving of signals, and a memory 706 for storing data and / or instructions.

[0139] The processor 704 may also make decisions or determinations, generate frames, packets or messages for transmission, decode received frames or messages for further processing, and other tasks or functions described herein. The processor 704 (which may be a baseband processor) may, for example, generate messages, packets, frames or other signals for transmission via the wireless transceiver 702 (702A or 702B). The processor 704 may control the transmission of signals or messages through a wireless network, and may control the reception of signals or messages via a wireless network, etc. (e.g., after being down-converted by the wireless transceiver 702). The processor 704 may be programmable and capable of executing software or other instructions stored in a memory or other computer medium to perform the various tasks and functions described above, such as one or more of the tasks or methods described above. The processor 704 may be (or may include) a programmable processor such as hardware, programmable logic, execution software or firmware, and / or any combination of these. For example, using other terms, the processor 704 and the transceiver 702 may be considered together as a wireless transmitter / receiver system.

[0140] In addition, refer to Figure 7 , the controller (or processor) 708 can execute software and instructions and can provide overall control for the station 700 and can Figure 7Other systems not shown in the figure provide control, such as controlling input / output devices (e.g., display, keyboard), and / or may execute software for one or more applications that may be provided on the wireless station 700, such as, for example, an email program, an audio / video application, a word processor, an IP voice application, or other applications or software. In addition, a storage medium may be provided that includes stored instructions that, when executed by a controller or processor, may cause the processor 704 or other controller or processor to perform one or more of the functions or tasks described above.

[0141] According to another example implementation, the RF or (multiple) wireless transceiver 702A / 702B can receive signals or data and / or transmit or send signals or data. The processor 704 (and possibly the transceiver 702A / 702B) can control the RF or wireless transceiver 702A or 702B to receive, send, broadcast or transmit signals or data.

[0142] However, these aspects are not limited to the systems given as examples, but a person skilled in the art may apply the solution to other communication systems. Another suitable communication system example is the 5G concept. It is assumed that the network architecture in 5G will be very similar to that of advanced LTE. 5G is likely to use multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) antennas, many more base stations or nodes than LTE (the so-called small cell concept), including macro sites that operate together with smaller base stations, and may also adopt various radio technologies to obtain better coverage and enhanced data rates.

[0143] It should be understood that future networks will most likely utilize network function virtualization (NFV), which is a network architecture concept that proposes to virtualize network node functions into "building blocks" or entities that can be operably connected or linked together to provide services. Virtualized network functions (VNFs) may include one or more virtual machines that use standard or general-purpose servers rather than custom hardware to run computer program code. Cloud computing or data storage may also be utilized. In radio communications, this may mean that node operations may be performed at least in part in a server, host, or node that is operably coupled to a remote radio head. It is also possible that node operations will be distributed among multiple servers, nodes, or hosts. It should also be understood that the distribution of labor between core network operations and base station operations may be different from LTE or even non-existent.

[0144] The implementation of various technologies described herein can be implemented in digital electronic circuit systems or in computer hardware, firmware, software, or a combination thereof. The implementation can be implemented as a computer program product, i.e., a computer program tangibly implemented in an information carrier, such as in a machine-readable storage device or in a propagated signal, for execution or control of its operation by a data processing device, such as a programmable processor, a computer, or multiple computers. The implementation can also be provided on a computer-readable medium or a computer-readable storage medium (which can be a non-transient medium). The implementation of various technologies can also include an implementation provided via a transient signal or medium, and / or a program and / or software implementation that can be downloaded via the Internet or (multiple) other networks (wired networks and / or wireless networks). In addition, the implementation can be provided via machine type communication (MTC) and via the Internet of Things (IOT).

[0145] A computer program may be in source code form, object code form or some intermediate form, and it may be stored in some carrier, distribution medium or computer readable medium, which may be any entity or device capable of carrying the program. For example, such carriers include recording media, computer memories, read-only memories, optoelectronic and / or electrical carrier signals, telecommunication signals and software distribution packages. Depending on the required processing power, the computer program may be executed in a single electronic digital computer or may be distributed among multiple computers.

[0146] In addition, implementations of the various techniques described herein may use a cyber-physical system (CPS) (a system of collaborative computing elements that control physical entities). CPS can enable the implementation and utilization of a large number of interconnected ICT devices (sensors, actuators, processor microcontrollers, etc.) embedded in physical objects at different locations. Mobile cyber-physical systems (where the physical system in question has inherent mobility) are a subcategory of cyber-physical systems. Examples of mobile physical systems include mobile robots and electronic devices transported by humans or animals. The popularity of smartphones has increased interest in the field of mobile cyber-physical systems. Therefore, various implementations of the techniques described herein may be provided via one or more of these technologies.

[0147] Computer programs such as (multiple) of the above-mentioned computer programs can be written in any form of programming language, including compiled or interpreted languages, and can be deployed in any form, including as a stand-alone program or as a module, component, subroutine or other unit or part thereof suitable for use in a computing environment. The computer program can be deployed to be executed on one computer or on multiple computers at one site, or distributed on multiple sites and interconnected by a communication network.

[0148] The method steps may be performed by one or more programmable processors executing a computer program or a portion of a computer program to perform functions by operating on input data and generating output. The method steps may also be performed by, and the apparatus may be implemented as, a special purpose logic circuit system, such as an FPGA (field programmable gate array) or an ASIC (application specific integrated circuit).

[0149] Processors suitable for executing computer programs include, for example, both general-purpose and special-purpose microprocessors, and any one or more processors of any kind of digital computer, chip or chipset. Typically, the processor will receive instructions and data from a read-only memory or a random access memory or both. The elements of a computer may include at least one processor for executing instructions and one or more memory devices for storing instructions and data. Typically, the computer may also include or be operatively coupled to receive data from one or more mass storage devices (e.g., magneto-optical disks, magneto-optical disks, or optical disks) for storing data, or to transfer data to these devices, or both. Information carriers suitable for implementing computer program instructions and data include all forms of non-volatile memory, including, for example, semiconductor memory devices, such as EPROM, EEPROM, and flash memory devices; magnetic disks, such as internal hard disks or removable disks; magneto-optical disks; and CD ROM and DVD-ROM disks. The processor and memory may be supplemented by or incorporated into a dedicated logic circuit system.

Claims

1. A method of communication, comprising: determining, by a user equipment (UE), a first time of arrival (TOA) based timing advance (TA) index value; sending, by the user equipment (UE) to a network node the first time of arrival (TOA) based timing advance (TA) index value during a random access procedure initiated by the user equipment (UE); performing, by the user equipment (UE), uplink synchronization based at least on the first time of arrival (TOA) based timing advance (TA) index value; as well as determining whether a distance between the user equipment (UE) and the network node is changing rapidly, wherein: In response to determining that the distance is changing rapidly, determining the first time of arrival (TOA) based TA index value based on: In response to determining that the distance is not changing rapidly, determining the first time of arrival (TOA) based TA index value based on: Where int[] is the integer function, sT X-1 (X-1) represents the distance change speed of sample X-1, tpX represents the TOA reference data update rate of sample X, and aT TOA (X) represents the acceleration of the relative distance change, and 1T A represents the minimum step size of TA, and Where c is the speed of light, T 0X represents the sending time of sample X at the network node, T 1X represents the reception time of sample X at the UE.

2. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: determining, by the user equipment (UE), one or more second time of arrival (TOA) based timing advance index values; as well as Continuous uplink synchronization is performed by the user equipment (UE) based at least on the one or more second time of arrival (TOA) based timing advance index values, the continuous uplink synchronization being performed when the user equipment (UE) is in a radio resource control (RRC)_CONNECTED mode.

3. The method according to claim 2, further comprising: The one or more second time of arrival (TOA) based timing advance index values ​​are sent by the user equipment (UE) to the network node.

4. The method of claim 1, wherein the first time of arrival (TOA) based timing advance index value is sent to the network node via a radio resource control (RRC) connection request message of the random access procedure initiated by the user equipment (UE).

5. The method according to claim 4, wherein the message is Msg 1 of the random access procedure, and wherein the random access procedure is a four-step random access procedure.

6. The method of claim 4, wherein the message is Msg A of the random access procedure, and wherein the random access procedure is a two-step random access procedure.

7. The method of claim 2, wherein the one or more second time of arrival (TOA) based timing advance index values ​​are sent to the network node via user data when the user equipment (UE) is in a radio resource control (RRC)_CONNECTED state.

8. An apparatus for communication, comprising at least one processor and at least one memory, the at least one memory comprising computer instructions which, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to perform the method according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

9. An apparatus for communication, comprising means for performing the method according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

10. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium having a computer-executable program code stored thereon, which, when executed on a computer system, causes the computer system to perform the steps according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

11. A communication method, comprising: determining, by the network node, a first timing advance (TA) value; receiving, by the network node, a first time of arrival (TOA) based timing advance (TA) index value from a user equipment (UE), wherein the first time of arrival (TOA) based timing advance (TA) index value is received from the user equipment (UE) during a random access procedure used by the user equipment (UE) to perform uplink synchronization; as well as verifying, by the network node, the first time of arrival (TOA) based timing advance (TA) index value received from the user equipment (UE), the verification being based at least on comparing the first time of arrival (TOA) based timing advance (TA) index value with the first timing advance (TA) value, wherein the first time of arrival (TOA) based TA index value is determined by the user equipment (UE) based on determining whether a distance between the user equipment (UE) and the network node is changing rapidly, and: In the case where the distance is changing rapidly, the first time of arrival (TOA) based TA index value is determined based on: In the case where the distance does not change rapidly, the first time of arrival (TOA) based TA index value is determined based on: Where int[] is the integer function, sT X-1 (X-1) represents the distance change speed of sample X-1, tpX represents the TOA reference data update rate of sample X, and aT TOA (X) represents the acceleration of the relative distance change, and 1T A represents the minimum step size of TA, and Where c is the speed of light, T 0X represents the sending time of sample X at the network node, T 1X represents the reception time of sample X at the UE.

12. The method according to claim 11, further comprising: receiving, by the network node, a second time of arrival (TOA) based timing advance index value from the user equipment (UE); as well as The second time of arrival (TOA) based timing advance index value received from the user equipment (UE) is verified by the network node, the verification being based at least on comparing the second time of arrival (TOA) based timing advance (TA) index value with a second timing advance (TA) value.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein the second time of arrival (TOA) based timing advance is received from the user equipment (UE) when the user equipment (UE) is in a radio resource control (RRC)_CONNECTED state.

14. An apparatus for communication, comprising at least one processor and at least one memory, the at least one memory comprising computer instructions which, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to perform the method according to any one of claims 11 to 13.

15. An apparatus for communication, comprising means for performing the method according to any one of claims 11 to 13.

16. A non-transitory computer readable storage medium having stored thereon a computer executable program code, which when executed on a computer system causes the computer system to perform the steps of any one of claims 11 to 13.

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