System and method for downlink-uplink timing relationship

Abstract

A system and method of providing enhanced downlink (DL)-uplink (UL) timing relationship. The system and method includes identifying, by a first wireless communication device, an offset between a first time domain tag and a second time domain tag, the first wireless communication device detecting a signal transmitted from a wireless communication node at the first time domain tag, the first wireless communication device applying the signal at the second time domain tag. In some embodiments, the offset includes at least one of a common offset portion or a user equipment (UE) specific offset portion.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure generally relates to wireless communications, and more specifically, to systems and methods for enhanced downlink (DL) – uplink (UL) timing relationships. Background Technology

[0002] The standards organization 3GPP is currently in the process of specifying a new radio interface called 5G New Radio (5G NR). 5G NR implements a mechanism called Timing Advance (TA), which refers to adjusting the uplink frame timing relative to the downlink frame timing. The TA can be calculated based on the UL receive timing and sent by the gNB to the UE. The UE can use the TA to advance or delay its transmission timing to the gNB to compensate for propagation delays and thus align transmissions from different UEs within the gNB's receiver window time. Adjustments can be performed as needed depending on the telecommunications application. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The exemplary embodiments disclosed herein are intended to address problems related to one or more issues existing in the prior art, and to provide additional features that will become apparent when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and the following detailed description. Example systems, methods, apparatuses, and computer program products are disclosed herein according to various embodiments. However, it should be understood that these embodiments are presented by way of example and not as limiting, and that various modifications may be made to the disclosed embodiments by those skilled in the art who read this disclosure, while still remaining within the scope of this disclosure.

[0004] In one embodiment, a method includes identifying an offset between a first time domain label and / or a second time domain label by a first wireless communication device, the first wireless communication device detecting a signal transmitted from a wireless communication node at the first time domain label, and the first wireless communication device applying the signal at the second time domain label. In some embodiments, the offset includes at least one of a common offset portion or a user equipment (UE) dedicated offset portion.

[0005] In some embodiments, the method includes transmitting data by a first wireless communication device according to a schedule. In some embodiments, the method includes applying configuration from a wireless communication node by the first wireless communication device. In some embodiments, the method includes sending feedback of received signaling by the first wireless communication device.

[0006] In some embodiments, the first wireless communication device and / or the second wireless communication device identify the same common offset portion in response to at least one of the following conditions: the first wireless communication device and the second wireless communication device share the same time-frequency resource; the first wireless communication device and the second wireless communication device share the same demodulation reference signal (DMRS) resource group; the first wireless communication device and the second wireless communication device share the same quasi-co-location relationship; or the first wireless communication device and the second wireless communication device share the same UE group.

[0007] In some embodiments, the method includes receiving an indication from a wireless communication node by a first wireless communication device. In some embodiments, at least one of the common offset portion or UE-specific portion is indicated by at least one of the following: System Information Block (SIB), Radio Resource Control (RRC) signaling, Downlink Control Information (DCI), or Media Access Control (MAC) Control Element (CE).

[0008] In some embodiments, the method includes: obtaining at least one of a common offset portion or a UE-specific offset portion by a first wireless communication device based on at least one of the following: a timing advance value indicated by a wireless communication node; a timing advance value calculated by the first wireless communication device; or a timing advance value reported by the first wireless communication device.

[0009] In some embodiments, the method includes: the timing advance value includes a common timing advance (TA).

[0010] In some embodiments, the method includes generating a common offset portion by a first wireless communication device by dividing the common TA by the time interval of a time slot or the time interval of a frame.

[0011] In some embodiments, the timing advance value is indicated by the wireless communication node through at least one of the following: broadcasting information received by the wireless communication device; system information block (SIB) information received by the wireless communication device; or radio resource control (RRC) configuration messages received by the wireless communication device.

[0012] In some embodiments, the timing advance value is calculated by the wireless communication device based on at least one of the following: the location of the first wireless communication device; or the location information of a satellite associated with the wireless communication node.

[0013] In some embodiments, the location of the first wireless communication device corresponds to a reference point in the area associated with the wireless communication node.

[0014] In some embodiments, the reference point is configured by the wireless communication node.

[0015] In some embodiments, the unit of the common offset portion is a time slot or a frame. In some embodiments, the unit of the UE-specific offset portion is a time slot or a frame.

[0016] In some embodiments, the method includes receiving, via signaling, at least one of a unit of a common offset portion or a unit of a UE-specific offset portion by a first wireless communication device.

[0017] In some embodiments, at least one of the units of the common offset portion or the units of the UE-specific offset portion is predefined.

[0018] In some embodiments, the unit of the common offset portion is predefined as a frame.

[0019] In some embodiments, the unit of a specific offset portion of the UE is predefined as a time slot.

[0020] In some embodiments, the signal includes at least one of the following: a downlink control information (DCI) signal, a random access response (RAR) signal, or a media access control (MAC) control element (CE).

[0021] In some embodiments, applying the signal includes: transmitting the Physical Uplink Shared Channel (PUSCH) by the first wireless communication device; or transmitting the Hybrid Automatic Repeat Request Acknowledgment (HARQ-ACK) by the first wireless communication device on the Physical Uplink Control Channel (PUCCH); or transmitting the Channel State Information (CSI) report by the first wireless communication device; or applying the configuration of the Media Access Control (MAC) Control Element (CE) by the first wireless communication device; or transmitting the Sound Reference Signal (SRS) by the first wireless communication device.

[0022] The foregoing and other aspects and embodiments thereof are described in more detail in the accompanying drawings, description and claims. Attached Figure Description

[0023] Various exemplary embodiments of this solution are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The drawings are provided for illustrative purposes only and merely describe exemplary embodiments of this solution to aid the reader's understanding. Therefore, the drawings should not be considered as limitations on the breadth, scope, or applicability of this solution. It should be noted that these drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale for clarity and ease of explanation.

[0024] Figure 1 This is a block diagram depicting an example environment of timing advance (TA) in an NR according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] Figure 2 This is a block diagram depicting an example environment of timing advance (TA) in an NR according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] Figure 3An example cellular communication network in which the techniques disclosed herein can be implemented, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, is illustrated.

[0027] Figure 4 The illustration shows a block diagram of an example base station and user equipment according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0028] Figure 5 This is a block diagram depicting an example non-terrestrial network based on transparent load according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0029] Figure 6 This is a block diagram depicting an example non-terrestrial network based on regenerative load according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0030] Figure 7 This is a block diagram depicting an example environment of timing advance (TA) in an NR based on partial TA compensation for the UE, according to an embodiment of this disclosure.

[0031] Figure 8 A table illustrating an example definition of parameters for calculating offsets according to an embodiment of this disclosure is shown.

[0032] Figure 9 This is a block diagram depicting an example environment of timing advance (TA) in an NR according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] Figure 10 This is a block diagram depicting an example environment of timing advance (TA) in an NR according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0034] Figure 11 Table 1100 illustrates example definitions of components of extended offsets for different use cases according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0035] Figure 12 Table 1200 illustrates an example definition of extended offset acquisition methods for different use cases according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0036] Figure 13 Table 1300 illustrates example definitions of extended offset acquisition methods for different use cases according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0037] Figure 14 The illustration shows a table of example definitions of extended offset acquisition methods for different use cases according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0038] Various exemplary embodiments of the present solution are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings to enable those skilled in the art to manufacture and use the present solution. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that, upon reading this disclosure, various changes or modifications can be made to the examples described herein without departing from the scope of the present solution. Therefore, the present solution is not limited to the exemplary embodiments and applications described and illustrated herein. Furthermore, the specific order or hierarchy of steps in the methods disclosed herein is merely exemplary. Based on design preferences, the specific order or hierarchy of steps in the disclosed methods or processes can be rearranged while remaining within the scope of the present solution. Therefore, those skilled in the art will understand that the methods and techniques disclosed herein present various steps or actions in a sample order, and the present solution is not limited to the presented specific order or hierarchy unless explicitly stated otherwise.

[0039] The following abbreviations are used throughout this disclosure:

[0040] 3GPP 3rd Generation Partner Program

[0041] 5G fifth-generation mobile network

[0042] 5G-AN 5G Access Network

[0043] 5G gNB 5G base station

[0044] CSI Channel State Information

[0045] DCI Downlink Control Information

[0046] DL downlink

[0047] GEO (Geosynchronous Earth Orbit)

[0048] HAPS Aerial Platform Station

[0049] HARQ-ACK Hybrid Automatic Repeat Request - Acknowledgment

[0050] ISL inter-satellite links

[0051] LEO (Low Earth Orbit)

[0052] MAC Media Access Control

[0053] MEO (Medium Earth Orbit)

[0054] NR New Radio

[0055] NTN non-terrestrial networks

[0056] PDCP (Packet Data Convergence Protocol)

[0057] PUCCH (Physical Uplink Control Channel)

[0058] PUSCH Physical Uplink Shared Channel

[0059] RAN (Radio Access Network)

[0060] RAR Random Access Response

[0061] RRC (Radio Resource Control)

[0062] RTT round trip time

[0063] SIB System Information Block

[0064] SRS Detection Reference Signal

[0065] TA scheduled in advance

[0066] UAS Unmanned Aerial Vehicle System Platform

[0067] UE User Equipment

[0068] UL uplink

[0069] With the rapid development of terrestrial networks, it is possible to further ensure network security (e.g., Figure 3 The BS 302 (Quality of Service) section addresses the limitations of terrestrial networks, which cannot reliably provide service coverage in isolated / remote areas, on aircraft or ships, and in rural areas. To extend coverage, network service can be used in conjunction with non-terrestrial networks (NTNs), which include networks (e.g., Figure 3 The BS 302 or network segment, and / or airborne or spaceborne vehicles (e.g., satellites) to carry transmission equipment relay nodes or base stations.

[0070] Compared to terrestrial mobile systems, the propagation distance in NTN results in long propagation delays, ranging from milliseconds to hundreds of milliseconds. This long propagation delay necessitates timing adjustments in NR, particularly timing advance (TA) mechanisms. Specifically, according to the New Radio Interface (NR) Radio Access Network (RAN) mechanism, aligned DL-UL frame boundaries on the gNB (sometimes called the "wireless communication device") side can be achieved by using the timing advance (TA) mechanism on the UE (sometimes referred to as the "wireless communication node") side. The TA mechanism can occur when the gNB measures the required TA based on the received UE signal and commands the UE to adjust its transmission time to advance / delay the timing of its transmission to the gNB. These adjustments to transmission time allow the UE and / or gNB to compensate for propagation delays and thus align transmissions from different UEs within the gNB's receiver window time. Depending on the telecommunications application, this adjustment can be performed as needed.

[0071] For example, Figure 1 This is a block diagram depicting an example environment 100 of timing advance (TA) in an NR according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Environment 100 includes components that can be accessed from a BS (e.g., Figure 3 BS 302) is sent to UE (e.g., Figure 3 UE 304) and frame 102 containing multiple time slots (in Figure 3 The first time slot (e.g., in chronological order) among a plurality of time slots is identified as time slot 103 (in the context of the 'gNB DL'). Figure 3 (shown as "n" in the diagram). Environment 100 includes a frame 104 (in which the UE can receive from the BS and contains multiple time slots). Figure 1 (represented as "UE DL"), where the first time slot (e.g., in chronological order) among multiple time slots is identified as time slot 105 (in Figure 1 (Indicated as "n").

[0072] Environment 100 includes a frame 106 that can be transmitted from the UE to the BS and contains multiple time slots (in Figure 1 (represented as "UEUL"), where the first time slot of a plurality of time slots (e.g., in chronological order) is identified as time slot 107 (in Figure 1 (Indicated as "n"). Environment 100 includes a frame 108 (in which the BS can receive from the UE and contains multiple time slots). Figure 1 The first time slot (e.g., in chronological order) among multiple time slots is identified as time slot 109. Figure 1 (Indicated as "n").

[0073] Specifically, frame 102 shows the transmission of the “first” frame from the BS, and frame 104 shows the reception of the “first” frame by the UE. Frame 106 shows the transmission of the “second” frame from the UE, and frame 108 shows the reception of the “second” frame by the BS.

[0074] like Figure 1 As shown, delay 110 indicates the time delay between the BS transmitting the "first" frame (as measured at the beginning of time slot 103 of frame 102) and the UE receiving the "first" frame (as measured at the beginning of time slot 105 of frame 104). Delay 112 indicates the time delay between the UE transmitting the "second" frame (as measured at the beginning of time slot 107 of frame 106) and the BS receiving the "second" frame (as measured at the beginning of time slot 109 of frame 108). TA 114 indicates the time delay between the UE transmitting the "second" frame (as measured at the beginning of time slot 107 of frame 106) and the UE receiving the "first" frame (as measured at the beginning of time slot 105 of frame 104).

[0075] Figure 2 This is a block diagram depicting an example environment 200 of timing advance (TA) in an NR according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Environment 200 includes a frame 202, which may be received at the UE side or transmitted from the UE to the BS and contains multiple time slots. In some embodiments, time slot 203 may correspond to "UE#Detected DL". In some embodiments, time slot 209 (in Figure 2 The slot 201 (represented as "slot n+k") can correspond to "UE# transmits (schedules) UL without TA processing". In some embodiments, slot 201 (in...) Figure 2 The display as "Time Slot?" can correspond to "UE# Sending UL with TA processing". Time slot 201 (in...) Figure 2 The text is incomplete and contains several errors. A proper translation is not possible without the full context. Figure 2 Before (shown as "slot n").

[0076] TA 220 (in) Figure 2 The text indicates the timing shift (TA) action in time slot 209 (shown as "Large TA Interval"). Time offset 222 (in...) Figure 2 The value range of k (indicated in the text) indicates the time offset between the start of time slot 203 and time slot 209. In one embodiment, time offset 222 (in the text) indicates the time offset between the start of time slot 203 and time slot 209. Figure 2 The value range of k (shown in the text) indicates the time offset between the end of time slot 203 and time slot 209.

[0077] For NR, the existing NR DL-UL timing relationship can define the timing interval between the DL slot / frame received by the UE and the (scheduled) UL / DL slot / frame transmitted. In response to UE# detecting a DL slot in slot 203 (e.g., slot n), and the corresponding UL slot being scheduled in slot 209 (e.g., slot n+k), using TA processing, the UE should transmit the UL slot after the detected DL slot.

[0078] UL signal (e.g., Figure 1 Frames 106 and / or 108 in the text. Figure 2 Frame 202 in the PUCCH may include PUSCH, HARQ-ACK on PUCCH, CSI report, MAC CE action timing, and / or SRS. In some embodiments, the timing relationship may include the UE detecting a DL slot carrying DCI and sending a DCI-authorized PUSCH in a subsequent (e.g., a later) UL slot.

[0079] However, the propagation delay and timing interval (TA) in NTN applications (e.g., up to hundreds of milliseconds) may be much greater than those in NR (e.g., less than 1 millisecond). Therefore, under the current NR timing relationship, the range of timing offsets may no longer meet the requirements for large TA compensation. That is, time slot 203 (e.g., the DL time slot detected by UE#) and the corresponding UL time slot can be scheduled in time slot 209 (e.g., time slot n+k). If parameter k remains constant, an error situation may occur when the interval TA is greater than the maximum value of k (e.g., the UE transmits UL before the UE detects DL).

[0080] Therefore, the systems and methods discussed here provide enhanced downlink (DL) – uplink (UL) timing relationships in NTN by: (1) providing extended offsets in NTN, (2) fully revealing the underlying structure of the offsets, (3) designing acquisition methods for portions of the offsets, and (4) modifying the granularity or units of the offsets.

[0081] As a non-restrictive example, the following regarding Figure 7 In more detail, the embodiments described herein may include one or more of the following features:

[0082] The “first feature” refers to one or more parameters that the UE obtains for calculating the timing interval on the UE side, based on different UE capabilities.

[0083] The “second feature” refers to the signaling method by which the BS implements one or more parameters (e.g., common TA, differential TA, etc.).

[0084] The “third feature” involves the UE and / or BS obtaining DL-UL timing relationships for different use cases with the help of one or more parameters.

[0085] The "fourth feature" involves providing a timing offset to ensure the alignment of DL-UL frame timing.

[0086] The "fifth feature" involves revealing the components of timing offset.

[0087] The "sixth feature" involves the design of a method for obtaining timing offset components.

[0088] The "seventh feature" involves expanding the unit of timing offset.

[0089] 1. Mobile communication technology and environment

[0090] Figure 3An example wireless communication network and / or system 300 according to embodiments of the present disclosure, in which the techniques disclosed herein may be implemented, is illustrated. In the following discussion, the wireless communication network 300 may be any wireless network, such as a cellular network or a narrowband Internet of Things (NB-IoT) network, and is referred to herein as "network 300". This example network 300 includes base stations 302 (hereinafter referred to as "BS 302"; also referred to as wireless communication nodes) and user equipment devices 304 (hereinafter referred to as "UE 304"; also referred to as wireless communication nodes) that can communicate with each other via communication links 310 (e.g., wireless communication channels), and a cluster of cells 326, 330, 332, 334, 336, 338, and 340 covering a geographic area 301. Figure 3 In this context, BS 302 and UE 304 are contained within the corresponding geographical boundaries of cell 326. Each of the other cells 330, 332, 334, 336, 338, and 340 may include at least one base station operating on its allocated bandwidth to provide sufficient radio coverage to its intended users.

[0091] For example, BS 302 can operate on the allocated channel transmission bandwidth to provide sufficient coverage to UE 304. BS 302 and UE 304 can communicate accordingly via downlink radio frame 318 and uplink radio frame 324. Each radio frame 318 / 324 can be further divided into subframes 320 / 327 that may include data symbols 322 / 328. In this disclosure, BS 302 and UE 304 are described herein as non-limiting examples of "communication nodes" that can practice the methods disclosed herein. According to various embodiments of this solution, such communication nodes are capable of wireless and / or wired communication.

[0092] Figure 4 The illustration shows a block diagram of an example wireless communication system 400 for transmitting and receiving wireless communication signals (e.g., OFDM / OFDMA signals) according to some embodiments of the present solution. System 400 may include components and elements configured to support known or conventional operating characteristics that do not need to be described in detail herein. In one illustrative embodiment, as described above, system 400 can be used in applications such as... Figure 3 In the wireless communication environment 300, data symbols are transmitted (e.g., sent and received).

[0093] System 400 typically includes a base station 402 (hereinafter referred to as "BS 402") and a user equipment unit 404 (hereinafter referred to as "UE 404"). BS 402 includes a BS (Base Station) transceiver module 410, a BS antenna 412, a BS processor module 414, a BS memory module 416, and a network communication module 418, each module being coupled and interconnected with another module as needed via a data communication bus 420. UE 404 includes a UE (User Equipment) transceiver module 430, a UE antenna 432, a UE memory module 434, and a UE processor module 436, each module being coupled and interconnected with another module as needed via a data communication bus 440. BS 402 communicates with UE 404 via a communication channel 450, which can be any wireless channel or other medium suitable for data transmission as described herein.

[0094] As will be understood by those skilled in the art, system 400 may also include, in addition to Figure 4 Any number of modules other than those shown. Those skilled in the art will understand that the various illustrative blocks, modules, circuits, and processing logic described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented in hardware, computer-readable software, firmware, or any practical combination thereof. To clearly illustrate this interchangeability and compatibility of hardware, firmware, and software, various illustrative components, blocks, modules, circuits, and steps are typically described according to their functionality. Whether such functionality is implemented as hardware, firmware, or software may depend on the specific application and design constraints imposed on the system as a whole. Those skilled in the art, skilled in the art, can implement such functionality in a suitable manner for each specific application, but such implementation decisions should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention.

[0095] According to some embodiments, UE transceiver 430 may be referred to herein as "uplink" transceiver 430, which includes a radio frequency (RF) transmitter and an RF receiver, each including circuitry coupled to antenna 432. A duplex switch (not shown) may alternatively couple the uplink transmitter or receiver to the uplink antenna in a time-duplex manner. Similarly, according to some embodiments, BS transceiver 410 may be referred herein as "downlink" transceiver 410, which includes an RF transmitter and an RF receiver, each including circuitry coupled to antenna 412. A downlink duplex switch may alternatively couple the downlink transmitter or receiver to downlink antenna 412 in a time-duplex manner. The operation of the two transceiver modules 410 and 430 may be time-coordinated such that the uplink receiver circuitry is coupled to uplink antenna 432 for receiving transmissions via wireless transmission link 450 while the downlink transmitter is coupled to downlink antenna 412. Conversely, the operation of the two transceivers 410 and 430 can be time-coordinated, such that the downlink receiver is coupled to the downlink antenna 412 for receiving transmissions via the wireless transmission link 450 simultaneously with the uplink transmitter being coupled to the uplink antenna 432. In some embodiments, there is tight time synchronization with a minimum guard time between changes in duplex direction.

[0096] UE transceiver 430 and base transceiver 410 are configured to communicate via wireless data communication link 450 and cooperate with appropriately configured RF antenna devices 412 / 432, which may support specific wireless communication protocols and modulation schemes. In some illustrative embodiments, UE transceiver 410 and base transceiver 410 are configured to support industry standards such as Long Term Evolution (LTE) and emerging 5G standards. However, it should be understood that the application of this disclosure is not limited to specific standards and related protocols. Rather, UE transceiver 430 and base transceiver 410 may be configured to support alternative or additional wireless data communication protocols, including future standards or variations thereof.

[0097] According to various embodiments, BS 402 may be, for example, an evolved Node B (eNB), a serving eNB, a target eNB, a femtocell, or a picocell. In some embodiments, UE 404 may be implemented in various types of user equipment, such as mobile phones, smartphones, personal digital assistants (PDAs), tablet computers, laptop computers, wearable computing devices, etc. Processor modules 414 and 436 may be implemented or realized using general-purpose processors, content-addressable memory, digital signal processors, application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), any suitable programmable logic devices, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof, and are designed to perform the functions described herein. In this way, the processor may be implemented as a microprocessor, a controller, a microcontroller, a state machine, etc. The processor may also be implemented as a combination of computing devices, such as a combination of a digital signal processor and a microprocessor, a combination of multiple microprocessors, a combination of one or more microprocessors and a digital signal processor core, or any other such configuration.

[0098] Furthermore, the steps of the methods or algorithms described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein can be directly implemented in hardware, firmware, software modules executed by processor modules 414 and 436 respectively, or any actual combination thereof. Memory modules 416 and 434 can be implemented as RAM memory, flash memory, ROM memory, EPROM memory, EEPROM memory, registers, hard disk, removable disk, CD-ROM, or any other form of storage medium known in the art. In this respect, memory modules 416 and 434 can be coupled to processor modules 410 and 430 respectively, such that processor modules 410 and 430 can read information from and write information to memory modules 416 and 434 respectively. Memory modules 416 and 434 can also be integrated into their respective processor modules 410 and 430. In some embodiments, each of memory modules 416 and 434 may include a cache memory for storing temporary variables or other intermediate information during the execution of instructions to be executed by processor modules 410 and 430 respectively. Memory modules 416 and 434 may each include non-volatile memory for storing instructions to be executed by processor modules 410 and 430, respectively.

[0099] Network communication module 418 typically represents hardware, software, firmware, processing logic, and / or other components of base station 402 that enable bidirectional communication between base transceiver 410 and other network components and communication nodes configured to communicate with base station 402. For example, network communication module 418 may be configured to support Internet or WiMAX services. In a typical deployment, but not limited to, network communication module 418 provides an 802.3 Ethernet interface, enabling base transceiver 410 to communicate with conventional Ethernet-based computer networks. In this way, network communication module 418 may include a physical interface for connecting to a computer network (e.g., a mobile switching center (MSC)). The terms “configured for,” “configured as,” and variations thereof, as used herein with respect to a specified operation or function, refer to devices, components, circuits, structures, machines, signals, etc., that are physically constructed, programmed, formatted, and / or arranged to perform a particular operation or function.

[0100] The Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) model (referred to herein as the "OSI model") is a conceptual and logical layout that defines network communications used by systems (e.g., wireless communication devices, wireless communication nodes) that are open to interconnection and communication with other systems. The model is divided into seven sub-components or layers, each representing a conceptual set of services provided to the layers above and below it. The OSI model also defines logical networks and efficiently describes computer packet transmission using different layer protocols. The OSI model may also be referred to as the seven-layer OSI model or the seven-layer model. In some embodiments, the first layer may be the physical layer. In some embodiments, the second layer may be the Media Access Control (MAC) layer. In some embodiments, the third layer may be the Radio Link Control (RLC) layer. In some embodiments, the fourth layer may be the Packet Data Convergence Protocol (PDCP) layer. In some embodiments, the fifth layer may be the Radio Resource Control (RRC) layer. In some embodiments, the sixth layer may be the Non-Access Stratum (NAS) layer or the Internet Protocol (IP) layer, and the seventh layer is another layer.

[0101] 2. Overview of Non-Land Networks

[0102] Figure 5 This is a block diagram depicting an example non-terrestrial network 500 based on a transparent load according to embodiments of the present disclosure. The non-terrestrial network 500 may include a UE 504, a BS 304, and / or a satellite 506. The non-terrestrial network 500 may include a gateway 508 for connecting the non-terrestrial network 500 to a data network 510 (e.g., public or private). A feeder link 512 connects the satellite 506 to the gateway 508. A serving link 514 connects the satellite 506 to the UE 504.

[0103] In some embodiments, BS 304 may be located on the ground near (e.g., close to, adjacent to) gateway 508. In some embodiments, the beam coverage area may be a larger cell than the cell of the non-terrestrial network 500. In some embodiments, the transparent load may include RF filtering, frequency conversion, and / or amplification; therefore, the waveform signal repeated by the payload may be invariant.

[0104] Figure 6 This is a block diagram depicting an example non-terrestrial network 600 based on regenerative load according to embodiments of the present disclosure. The non-terrestrial network 600 may include a UE 604, a BS 304, and / or a satellite 606. The non-terrestrial network 600 may include a gateway 608 for connecting the non-terrestrial network 600 to a data network 610 (e.g., public or private). A feeder link 612 connects the satellite 606 to the gateway 608. A serving link 614 connects the satellite 606 to the UE 604. In some embodiments, the BS 304 may be located on the satellite 606. An inter-satellite link (ISL) 616 connects the satellite 606 to the UE 604. In some embodiments, the beam coverage area may be a cell larger than the cell of the non-terrestrial network 600. In some embodiments, the regenerative load may include RF filtering, frequency conversion, amplification; demodulation / decoding, switching and / or routing, and / or encoding / modulation; thus, all or part of the base station functions (e.g., Figure 3 The gNB (BS 304) may be on satellite 606 or UAS platform. In some embodiments, the non-terrestrial network 600 may include a constellation of LEO and / or MEO. In some embodiments, LEO includes orbits around the Earth at altitudes between 300 km and 1500 km. In some embodiments, MEO includes a space region around the Earth above LEO and below geostationary Earth orbit (GEO).

[0105] Still referencing Figure 5 and Figure 6 Satellite 506 and / or satellite 606 can be geostationary (GEO) satellites or non-GEO satellites. GEO satellites can be fed by one or more gateways (e.g., gateway 508, gateway 608), which can be deployed across satellite target coverage (e.g., regional coverage or even continental coverage). In some embodiments, a UE in a cell is served by only one gateway. Non-GEO satellites can be continuously served by one or more gateways (e.g., gateway 508, gateway 608) at a time; this ensures that the service links and feeder links between continuously serving gateways have sufficient duration for mobility anchoring and handover. In some embodiments, one or more GEO satellites and / or one or more UAS can be used to provide continental, regional, and / or local services.

[0106] Satellite 506 and / or Satellite 606 or UAS platforms can implement transparent or regenerative (e.g., with onboard processing) payloads. Satellite 506 and / or Satellite 606 or UAS platforms can generate beams over a given service area defined by their field of view. In some embodiments, the coverage area of ​​the beam can be elliptical. The field of view of Satellite 506 and / or Satellite 606 or UAS platforms can depend on the onboard antenna pattern and / or minimum elevation angle.

[0107] In some embodiments, the non-terrestrial network 500 based on transparent load may differ from the non-terrestrial network 600 based on regenerative load in at least some respects. For example, the transparent load from the service link 514 between UE 504 and satellite 506 to the feeder link 512 between satellite 506 and gateway 508 may remain unchanged. Conversely, the regenerative load may be received on-board from UE 604 to satellite 606; therefore, the signal may be altered.

[0108] 3. Example of DL-UL timing relationship

[0109] In some embodiments, if the UL signal includes a HARQ-ACK on the PUCCH, then conventional UE procedures can be used to report the HARQ-ACK in the NR. In some embodiments, for slot n (e.g., Figure 1 Time slot 103, Figure 2 If the PDSCH reception ends in time slot 203, then the UE ( Figure 3 UE302 in the example can be used in time slot n+k (e.g., Figure 2 The PUCCH is transmitted in time slot 209. In some embodiments, k may be indicated by the DCI or higher layer parameter “d1-DataToUL-ACK”.

[0110] In some embodiments, for DCI format 1_0, the value of k can be {1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8}. In some embodiments, for the higher-level parameter dl-DataToUL-ACK, {1st value, 2nd value…8th value}, when the detected DCI format 1_1 does not include the PDSCH-to-HARQ-timing-indicator field, k can be indicated by the higher-level parameter. In some embodiments, the value of k can be a sequence of integers (0…15) (SIZE(1…8)).

[0111] 3.1 PDSCH Receive Timing

[0112] Regarding PDSCH reception timing, in some embodiments, when the UE (e.g., Figure 3When UE 304 is scheduled to receive PDSCH via DCI, DCI can indicate the time slot offset (e.g., K0).

[0113] In some embodiments, the time slots allocated by PDSCH can be defined based on Equation 2.

[0114] (2)

[0115] Where n is the time slot with scheduled DCI, K0 is based on the value of PDSCH, and μ PDSCH and μ PDCCH These are the subcarrier spacing configurations for PDSCH and PDCCH, respectively; and the value of K0 is in the range of 0 to 32.

[0116] 3.2 Transmission timing for PUSCH scheduled by DCI

[0117] Regarding the transmission timing of PUSCH scheduled by DCI, in some embodiments, when UE302 is scheduled to send PUSCH by DCI, DCI indicates a slot offset (e.g., K2).

[0118] In some embodiments, the time slots allocated for PUSCH can be defined based on Equation 3.

[0119] (3)

[0120] Where n is the time slot with scheduled DCI, K2 is a value based on PUSCH, and μ PUSCH and μ PDCCH These are the subcarrier spacing configurations for PUSCH and PDCCH, respectively; and the value of K2 is in the range of 0 to 32.

[0121] 3.3 For use by RAR UL-authorized scheduling of PUSCH transmission timing

[0122] For a PUSCH transmission slot scheduled by RARUL grant, in some embodiments, if UE 304 receives a PDSCH from UE with a RAR message for the corresponding PRACH transmission ending in slot n, then UE transmits the PUSCH in slot n+K2+Δ. In some embodiments, K2 and / or Δ may be defined by 3GPP TS38.214.

[0123] 3.4 Timing for HARQ-ACK transmission on PUCCH

[0124] Referring to the time slots used for PUCCH transmission, in some embodiments, for a PDSCH reception ending in time slot n or an SPS PDSCH release via a PDCCH reception ending in time slot n, UE 304 provides corresponding HARQ-ACK information in the PUCCH transmission within time slot n+K1, where K1 is the number of time slots and is indicated by the PDSCH-to-HARQ timing indicator field in the DCI format, if present, or provided by dl-DataToUL-ACK. In some embodiments, in the case of an SPSPDSCH release, K1=0 corresponds to the last time slot of the PUCCH transmission that overlaps with or with a PDSCH reception.

[0125] 3.5 MAC CE activation timer

[0126] Regarding the MAC CE activation timing, in some embodiments, when a HARQ-ACK corresponding to a PDSCH carrying a MAC-CE command is sent in time slot n, the corresponding activation and UE assumption on the downlink configuration indicated by the MAC-CE command can be applied starting from a first time slot after the second time slot defined by equation (4).

[0127] (4)

[0128] in This indicates the number of time slots per subframe for the subcarrier spacing configuration μ.

[0129] 3.6 Timing for CSI transmission on PUSCH

[0130] Regarding the transmission timing of CSI on PUSCH, the transmission timing of CSI on PUSCH can follow the general transmission timing of PUSCH scheduled by DCI.

[0131] 3.7 CSI Reference Resource Timing

[0132] Regarding CSI reference resource timing, the CSI reference resource reported in the uplink time slot n' can be determined by a single downlink time slot nn. CSI_ref To define. In some embodiments, n can be defined based on equation (5).

[0133] (5)

[0134] In some embodiments, μ DL and μ UL These are the subcarrier spacing configurations for DL ​​and UL, respectively. In some embodiments, n CSI_refThe value can depend on the type of CSI report and / or be defined by 3GPP on TS38.214.

[0135] 3.7 Timing of Aperiodic SRS Transmission

[0136] Regarding the timing of aperiodic SRS transmission, in some embodiments, if UE 304 receives the DCI that triggers aperiodic SRS in time slot n, then UE 304 in time slot n... Aperiodic SRS is transmitted in each of the (multiple) triggered SRS resource sets, where k is configured for each triggered SRS resource set via a higher-level parameter slotOffset and based on the subcarrier spacing of the triggered SRS transmission, and μ SRS and μ PDCCH These are the subcarrier spacing configurations used to trigger the SRS and the PDCCH carrying the trigger command, respectively.

[0137] 4. Enhancement of DL-UL timing relationship

[0138] To enhance the DL-UP timing relationship in NR, BS 302 and / or UE 304 may add (e.g., add, introduce, augment, supplement, etc.) an offset on the top of the conventional timing interval between the received DL slot / frame and the (scheduled) transmitted UL / DL slot / frame. In some embodiments, the offset may include one or more components (e.g., 1 component, 2 components, etc.). In some embodiments, the components may be obtained (e.g., acquired, determined, obtained, etc.) by signaling and / or by calculations performed by UE 304 itself. As discussed herein, there are several methods that can enhance the DL-UP timing relationship in NR for different scenarios and / or embodiments.

[0139] Figure 7 This is a block diagram illustrating an example environment 700 of a timing advance (TA) in an NR based on partial TA compensation for a UE, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Environment 700 includes components that can be sourced from a BS (e.g., Figure 3 BS 302 in the middle) is sent to UE (e.g., Figure 3 UE 304) and frame 702 containing multiple time slots (in Figure 7 The first time slot (e.g., in chronological order) among multiple time slots is identified as time slot 703. Figure 7 (Indicated as "n"). Environment 700 includes a frame 704 (in which the UE can receive from the BS and contains multiple time slots). Figure 7 (represented as "UE DL"), where the first time slot among multiple time slots (e.g., in chronological order) is identified as time slot 705 (in Figure 7 (Indicated as "n").

[0140] Environment 700 includes a frame 706 that can be transmitted from the UE to the BS and contains multiple time slots (in Figure 7 (represented as "UEUL"), where the first time slot of a plurality of time slots (e.g., in chronological order) is identified as time slot 707 (in Figure 7 (Indicated as "n"). Environment 700 includes a frame 708 (in which the BS can receive from the UE and contains multiple time slots). Figure 7 (shown as "gNB UL"), where the first of a plurality of time slots (e.g., in chronological order) is identified as time slot 709. The BS needs to compensate for the offset between time slot 709 and time slot 709b to achieve time alignment on the BS side.

[0141] Specifically, frame 702 shows the transmission of the "first" frame from the BS, and frame 704 shows the reception of the "first" frame by the UE. Frame 706 shows the transmission of the "second" frame from the UE, and frame 708 shows the reception of the "second" frame by the BS.

[0142] like Figure 7 As shown, delay 710 indicates the time delay between the gNB transmitting the "first" frame (as measured at the beginning of time slot 703 of frame 702) and the UE receiving the "first" frame (as measured at the beginning of time slot 705 of frame 704). Delay 712 indicates the time delay between the UE transmitting the "second" frame (as measured at the beginning of time slot 707 of frame 706) and the gNB receiving the "second" frame (as measured at the beginning of time slot 709 of frame 708). TA 714 indicates the UE's time-based TA action. gNB DL-UL frame time shift 716 indicates the timing offset between time slot 709 of frame 708 and time slot 709a of frame 708.

[0143] In some embodiments, the UE's UL timing synchronization capability can be partial TA compensation, which can cause (e.g., induce, trigger, initiate, etc.) gNB DL-UL frame timing offset, such as Figure 7 As shown.

[0144] In some embodiments, the UE capability for UL timing synchronization can be full (e.g., complete, maximum, satisfied, etc.) TA compensation.

[0145] In some embodiments, the TA component can be obtained via signaling (e.g., acquisition, determination, obtaining, etc.).

[0146] In some embodiments, the TA component can be obtained by the UE itself.

[0147] In some embodiments (also referred to herein as "case 1-a"), the UE can handle full TA and / or the UE can transmit transparent or regenerated payloads.

[0148] Since the UE can process the full TA, the UE can obtain one or more components of the offset (e.g., a first component, a second component, etc.). In some embodiments, the first component may be a common offset portion. In some embodiments, the second component may be a UE-specific offset portion.

[0149] In some embodiments, the common offset portion may depend on satellites (e.g., Figure 5 Satellite 506 in the middle, Figure 6 The propagation delay between satellite 606 and a reference point in the beam coverage area for regenerative load scenarios.

[0150] In some embodiments, the common offset portion may depend on the propagation delay between the satellite and the reference point in the beam coverage area, as well as the gateway in a transparent load scenario.

[0151] In some embodiments, the UE-specific offset portion may depend on the cell size. That is, the UE-specific offset portion may depend on the location of the UE.

[0152] In some embodiments, the parameter common offset portion may be classified into one or more types of common offset portions (e.g., type-1 common offset portion, type-2 common offset portion).

[0153] In some embodiments, the Type-1 common offset portion can be a statistic or variable based on satellite category.

[0154] In some embodiments, the Type-1 common offset portion can be used in GEO scenes, which use frames as the time unit.

[0155] In some embodiments, the Type-2 common offset portion can be used in HAPS scenarios, where time slots are used as the time unit.

[0156] In some embodiments, from the UE side perspective, if the parameter common offset portion or UE-specific offset portion is obtained, the DL-UL timing relationship can be obtained based on the parameters.

[0157] In some embodiments, if the UE sends a HARQ-ACK on the PUCCH, an offset can be added (e.g., the UE sends a HARQ-ACK on the PUCCH at the beginning of slot n+k+ offset).

[0158] In some embodiments, if the HARQ procedure mechanism follows the design in NR or if the maximum number of HARQ procedures remains unchanged, an offset (e.g., summation, introduction, addition, supplementation, etc.) can be added to the top of k in NR.

[0159] In some embodiments, the offset can be calculated based on equation (6).

[0160] (6)

[0161] In some embodiments, offset_1 may be a common offset portion. In some embodiments, offset_2 may be a UE-specific offset portion. In some embodiments, the values ​​of the common offset portion and / or the UE-specific offset portion may be obtained via maximum RTT and / or maximum differential RTT, such as... Figure 5 As shown.

[0162] Figure 8 A table illustrating an example definition of parameters for calculating offsets according to an embodiment of this disclosure is shown.

[0163] In some embodiments, if the HARQ process mechanism does not follow the design in the NR or if the maximum number of HARQ processes is changed, the range k in the NR can be extended. That is, in some embodiments, as shown in equation (7), delta (e.g., an offset) can be added to the parameter k in the NR.

[0164] (7):k extended =k + delta*2 u

[0165] In some embodiments, u is the subcarrier spacing configuration.

[0166] In some embodiments, for scenario 1-b, UE 304 will partially process TA, and UE 304 will send transparent payload or regenerated payload.

[0167] In some embodiments (also referred to herein as "case 1-b"), the UE may partially process the TA and / or the UE may transmit transparent or regenerated loads.

[0168] Since the UE can only partially process the TA, the UE can obtain one component of the offset (e.g., a first component, a second component, etc.). In some embodiments, the first component may be a common offset portion. In some embodiments, the second component may be a UE-specific offset portion.

[0169] In some embodiments, the UE-specific offset portion of the parameter can be obtained via signaling.

[0170] In some embodiments, the UE-specific offset portion of the parameter can be obtained by the UE itself, and the calculation can be aided by location information, DL information (e.g., broadcast information, SIB information, RRC configuration messages, etc.) before transmission.

[0171] In some embodiments, the UE-specific offset parameter can be different for each beam / cell.

[0172] In some embodiments, a UE-side perspective view is formed, and if a UE-specific offset portion or a common offset portion of the parameter is obtained, the DL-UL timing relationship can be obtained based on the parameter.

[0173] Figure 9 This is a block diagram depicting an example environment 900 of timing advance (TA) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Environment 900 includes a frame 902, which can be transmitted from UE 304 to BS 302 or from BS 302 to UE 304, and contains multiple time slots. Time slot 903 (in Figure 9 The term "time slot n" appears in time slot 909. Figure 9 Before (shown as "n+k"). In some embodiments, time slot 903 may correspond to "UE# detected DL". In some embodiments, time slot 909 (in Figure 9 The term "n+k" can correspond to "scheduling UL / DL slots after k slots". In some embodiments, slot 924 (in...) Figure 9 The value shown as “n+k” can correspond to the “slot for sending UL / DL”.

[0174] Offset 920 (in) Figure 9 The value range of k (shown in the text) indicates the time offset between time slots 903 and 909. Figure 9 The TA (interval TA) indicates the TA process.

[0175] Figure 10 This is a block diagram depicting an example environment 1000 of timing advance (TA) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Environment 1000 includes frame 1002, which can be transmitted from UE 304 to BS 302 or from BS 302 to UE 304, and contains multiple time slots. Time slot 1003 (in Figure 10 The term "time slot n" appears in time slot 1009. Figure 10 Before (shown as "n+k"). In some embodiments, time slot 1003 may correspond to "UE# detected DL". In some embodiments, time slot 1009 (in Figure 10The term "n+k" can correspond to "scheduling UL / DL time slots starting from time slot n+k". In some embodiments, time slot 1010 (in...) Figure 10 The symbol “n” in the middle can correspond to “send UL / DL time slot”.

[0176] Offset 1020 (in) Figure 10 The value range of k (shown in the text) indicates the time offset between time slot 1003 and time slot 1009. Offset 1022 (in...) Figure 10 The TA (interval TA) indicates the TA process.

[0177] In some embodiments, BS 302 and / or UE 304 may introduce (e.g., define, generate, create, etc.) an offset K. offset And / or apply this offset to modify the relevant timing relationships. In some embodiments, the offset K offset The components can indicate whether common parts and / or UE-specific parts can be considered. In some embodiments, the extended offset K can be designed (e.g., defined, introduced, generated, created, etc.). offset To facilitate advance timing operations in NTN.

[0178] In some embodiments, the transmission timing of DCI-scheduled PUSCHs (including CSIs on the PUSCHs) can be modified (e.g., changed, updated, etc.) based on Equation 8 to allocate time slots for the PUSCHs.

[0179] (8)

[0180] Where n is the time slot for scheduling DCI, K2 is based on the value of PUSCH, and u PUSCH and u PDCCH These are the subcarrier spacing configurations for PUSCH and PDCCH, respectively; the value of K2 ranges from 0 to 32. In some embodiments, the offset K... offset The components can indicate whether common parts and / or UE-specific parts can be considered.

[0181] In some embodiments, for the transmission timing of the PUSCH in RAR-authorized scheduling, UE 304 in time slot n+K2+Δ+K offset When UE 304 receives a PDSCH with a RAR message ending in slot n for use in the corresponding PRACH transmission, UE 304 transmits a PUSCH in slot n+K2+Δ, where K2 and Δ are integer values ​​provided in 3GPP TS 38.214. In some embodiments, offset K... offset The components can indicate whether common parts and / or UE-specific parts can be considered.

[0182] In some embodiments, for the timing of HARQ-ACK transmission on PUCCH, UE 302 in time slot n+K1+K offset The UE 304 provides corresponding HARQ-ACK information in the PUCCH transmission within slot n; for PDSCH reception ending in slot n or SPS PDSCH release via PDCCH reception ending in slot n, the UE 304 provides corresponding HARQ-ACK information in the PUCCH transmission within slot n+K1, where K1 is the number of slots and is indicated by the PDSCH-to-HARQ timing indicator field in the DCI format or by higher-layer signaling. In some embodiments, the offset K... offset The components can indicate whether common parts and / or UE-specific parts can be considered.

[0183] In some embodiments, for MAC CE activation timing, the corresponding activation and UE 304 assumptions for the downlink configuration indicated by the MAC-CE command can be applied starting from the first time slot, which is after the time slot defined by equation (9).

[0184] (9) The value of X can depend on the NTN UE capability. X is an integer, and its value ranges from {3, other numbers}. In some embodiments, the offset K... offset The components can indicate whether common parts and / or UE-specific parts can be considered.

[0185] In the embodiment, for CSI reference resource timing, in the downlink time slot The CSI reference resource is provided. In some embodiments, the CSI reference resource used for CSI reporting in uplink slot n′ is composed of a single downlink slot. Define, where, The value is an integer that depends on the CSI report type and is defined in 3GPP TS 38.214. In some embodiments, the offset K offset The components can indicate which common parts and / or UE-specific parts can be considered.

[0186] In the embodiment, for the transmission timing of aperiodic SRS, the UE transmits aperiodic SRS in each of the trigger SRS resource sets in the time slot defined by equation (10).

[0187] (10)

[0188] When UE 304 receives a DCI that triggers aperiodic SRS in time slot n, UE 304 in time slot In each of the multiple triggered SRS resource sets, aperiodic SRS is transmitted, where k is configured via the higher-layer parameter slotOffset for each triggered SRS resource set, and u is based on the subcarrier spacing of the triggered SRS transmission. SRS and u PDCCH These are the subcarrier spacing configurations used to trigger the SRS and the PDCCH carrying the trigger command, respectively. In some embodiments, the offset K... offset The components can indicate whether common parts and / or UE-specific parts can be considered.

[0189] In some embodiments, the extended offset K offset This may include components such as a common portion and / or a UE-specific differential portion. In some embodiments, different NTN cases may be handled. In some embodiments, the common portion may depend on the propagation delay between reference points in the beam footprint of the satellite and / or regenerated load. In some embodiments, the UE-specific portion may depend on the cell size, as it depends on the UE's position in the beam footprint.

[0190] In some embodiments, for HAPS with low height and / or large beamwidth, K offset Includes only UE-specific parts.

[0191] In some embodiments, for high-altitude but limited beamwidth situations, or in certain UE group-specific operating situations, K offset Only the public parts are included.

[0192] Figure 11 Table 1100 illustrates example definitions of components of extended offset for different use cases according to embodiments of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the BS / UE identifies an offset between a first time domain label and a second time domain label, a first wireless communication device detects a signal transmitted from a wireless communication node at the first time domain label, and the first wireless communication device applies the signal at the second time domain label, wherein the offset includes at least one of a common offset portion or a user equipment (UE) dedicated offset portion.

[0193] In some embodiments, the signal may be: scheduling signaling (e.g., DCI), MAC activation / deactivation signaling, or RRC configuration signaling. In some embodiments, the first wireless communication device applies the signal through one of the following operations: the first wireless communication device can transmit data according to the schedule (e.g., PUSCH / PUCCH, SRS), the first wireless communication device can apply configuration from the wireless communication node, or the first wireless communication device can send feedback on the reception signaling (e.g., the feedback may be ACK / NACK for HARQ received from PDSCH, RLC-ARQ feedback, CSI feedback for CSI measurement).

[0194] In some embodiments, the first wireless communication device and the second wireless communication device identify the same common offset portion in response to satisfying at least one of the following conditions: the first wireless communication device and the second wireless communication device share the same time-frequency resource; the first wireless communication device and the second wireless communication device share the same demodulation reference signal DMRS resource group (e.g., the DM-RS resource group refers to the CDM group); the first wireless communication device and the second wireless communication device share the same quasi-co-location relationship; or the first wireless communication device and the second wireless communication device share the same UE group.

[0195] Regarding UE groups, UE groups can be organized based on location, UE capability for polarization, or UE type. In some embodiments, the indicated common offset portion may be associated with a corresponding group ID or associated in order of group ID.

[0196] For the same QCL relationship, this means that the scheduled (for transmission or reception) channels (e.g., PDCCH, PDSCH, PUCCH, PUSCH) or RSs (e.g., CSI-RS, SSB, PRS, DMRS, SRS) have the same QCL / spatial relationship: (1) sharing the same QCL indicator ID (e.g., TCI (Transmission Configuration Indicator) status ID); (2) sharing the same reference RS for the corresponding QCL type; (3) sharing the same reference resource for the spatial relationship; and (4) the reference resources associated with the spatial relationship share the same resource.

[0197] In some embodiments, the extended offset acquisition method is based on network indication.

[0198] In some embodiments, the extended offset acquisition method includes implicit acquisition. In some embodiments, one or both parameters of the extended offset components may be indicated by: SIB, RRC message, MAC CE, and / or public DCI signaling. In some embodiments, the necessity of signaling one or both parameters is related to the UE compensation capability.

[0199] In some embodiments, new parameters are explicitly configured to indicate the common component of the extended offset. In some embodiments, the new parameters can be flexible for scheduling. In some embodiments where additional signaling overhead may be required, timing drift can be considered when signaling is detected and / or applied.

[0200] In some embodiments, explicit signaling is defined for UE-specific portions of the extended offset, following the general mechanism of TA indication in the RAR of the NR. In some embodiments, to satisfy greater coverage for each beam / cell of the NTN, an extension of the range of values ​​for the TA indication in the RAR of the NR can be determined.

[0201] In some embodiments, the extended offset acquisition method may include implicit acquisition.

[0202] In some embodiments, the implicit acquisition method may be based on a timing advance value self-calculated by the UE, including a timing advance value indicated by the wireless communication node; a timing advance value calculated by the first wireless communication device; and / or a timing advance value reported by the first wireless communication device. In some embodiments, the reported timing advance value may be a component of the extended offset, and the reported timing advance value may be a TA adjustment value applied in previous transmissions of msg-3, msg-A, or PUSCH. In some embodiments, the UE self-calculation may be based on a TA indication from the BS, a value self-calculated by the UE, or a value previously reported by the UE.

[0203] In some embodiments, assuming the UE knows the UE location and / or the associated satellite location (e.g., satellite ephemeris), the UE 304 can obtain the common portion and / or the UE-specific portion of the extended offset.

[0204] In some embodiments, UE 304 obtains the common portion of the offset via the indicated common TA. In some embodiments, the method of converting the common TA into the common portion of the offset may be based on equation (11) and / or equation (12).

[0205] (11) Common offset = ceil(common TA of time slot / time interval)

[0206] (12) Common Offset = ceil(common TA of frames / time interval)

[0207] In some embodiments, the fixed time interval can be the time length of a time slot, the time length of a frame, the time length of a symbol, or N*Ts, where N is an integer.

[0208] In some embodiments, the granularity (Ts) can be defined by equations (13) and (14).

[0209] (13)T s =1 / (Δf) ref ·N f，ref ), Δf ref =15·10 3 Hz

[0210] (14)N f，ref =2048.

[0211] In some embodiments, the method of converting the common TA to the common part of the extended offset may be based on equation (15), equation (16), and / or equation (17). In some embodiments, the units of the common TA and the common offset may be different.

[0212] (15) Common offset = ceil(common TA / fixed time interval)

[0213] (16) Common offset = floor(common TA / fixed time interval)

[0214] (17) Common offset = round(common TA / fixed time interval)

[0215] In some embodiments, `ceil()` can be a mathematical function that always rounds a number to the next largest integer. In some embodiments, `floor()` can be a mathematical function that returns the largest integer less than or equal to a given number. In some embodiments, `round()` can be a mathematical function that returns a value rounded to the nearest integer.

[0216] Figure 12 Table 1200 illustrates an example definition of extended offset acquisition methods for different use cases according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0217] In some embodiments, for the variable cases of extended offsets regarding timing relationships described in Table 1100, there may be various component acquisition methods as defined in Table 1200.

[0218] Figure 13 Table 1300 illustrates an example definition of extended offset acquisition methods for different use cases according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0219] Figure 14 The illustration shows a table of example definitions for extended offset acquisition methods for different use cases according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0220] In some embodiments, for the variable cases of extended offsets regarding timing relationships described in Table 1100, there may be various component acquisition methods as defined in Table 1300.

[0221] In some embodiments, the time unit of the extended offset can be increased to match the larger offsets in the NTN. In some embodiments, using frames or large granularity as the unit of timing offset for the NTN can significantly reduce the number of time slots.

[0222] In some embodiments, as the unit used for timing offset is scaled up, the number of bits required for the corresponding indication can be significantly reduced. For example, if the NTN system follows the granularity of timing offset in NR, the offset in GEO NTN can be as high as 1092 slots. However, the number of slots can be equivalent to 54 frames and 12 slots, which may require only 6 bits (per frame) instead of 11 bits (per slot).

[0223] In some embodiments, whether to use frames or time slots for the common offset depends on the satellite type. For example, when the UE is in LEO or HAPS NTN, the unit of common offset should be time slots. Otherwise, in GEO or MEO NTN, the common offset should be at least in frames.

[0224] In some embodiments, the value for a UE-specific offset can range from a few time slots to dozens of time slots across different satellites, and therefore the UE-specific offset can be in a time slot or a frame. In some embodiments, the unit of the UE-specific offset is a time slot.

[0225] In some embodiments, the granularity or unit of timing offset may be scaled by frames, wherein common offsets are at least in frames and UE-specific offsets are at least in time slots.

[0226] In some embodiments, the unit of the timing offset is indicated by the network.

[0227] In some embodiments, the method for using an indicator for a unit may include using 1 bit to indicate the unit, for example, 0 indicating a time slot and 1 indicating a frame. In some embodiments, the method for using an indicator for a unit may include using the most significant bit to indicate the unit and / or using the remaining bits to indicate the value, for example, if the most significant bit is 0, it indicates that the unit is a frame, otherwise it indicates that the unit is a time slot.

[0228] While various embodiments of the present solution have been described above, it should be understood that they are presented merely as examples and not as limitations. Similarly, the various figures may depict exemplary architectures or configurations, provided to enable those skilled in the art to understand the exemplary features and functionality of the present solution. However, those skilled in the art will understand that the solution is not limited to the illustrated exemplary architectures or configurations, but can be implemented using various alternative architectures and configurations. Furthermore, as those skilled in the art will understand, one or more features of one embodiment may be combined with one or more features of another embodiment described herein. Therefore, the breadth and scope of this disclosure should not be limited to any of the illustrative embodiments described above.

[0229] It should also be understood that any reference to elements in this document using names such as "first," "second," etc., generally does not restrict the number or order of these elements. Rather, these names may be used herein as a convenient means of distinguishing two or more elements or instances of elements. Therefore, references to the first element and the second element do not imply that only two elements may be used, or that the first element must somehow precede the second element.

[0230] Furthermore, those skilled in the art will understand that information and signals can be represented using any of a variety of different techniques and methods. For example, data, instructions, commands, information, signals, bits, and symbols, as referenced above, can be represented by voltage, current, electromagnetic waves, magnetic fields or particles, light fields or particles, or any combination thereof.

[0231] Those skilled in the art will further appreciate that any of the various illustrative logic blocks, modules, processors, components, circuits, methods, and functions described in conjunction with the aspects disclosed herein can be implemented by electronic hardware (e.g., digital implementation, analog implementation, or a combination of both), firmware, various forms of program or design code incorporated into instructions (which may be referred to herein as "software" or "software module" for convenience), or any combination of these technologies. To clearly illustrate this interchangeability of hardware, firmware, and software, various illustrative components, blocks, modules, circuits, and steps have been described above generally in accordance with their functions. Whether such functionality is implemented as hardware, firmware, or software, or a combination of these technologies, depends on the specific application and the design constraints imposed on the system as a whole. Those skilled in the art can implement the described functionality in various ways for each specific application, but such implementation decisions do not depart from the scope of the invention.

[0232] Furthermore, those skilled in the art will understand that the various illustrative logic blocks, modules, devices, components, and circuits described herein can be implemented within or executed by integrated circuits (ICs), which may contain general-purpose processors, digital signal processors (DSPs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), or other programmable logic devices or any combination thereof. Logic blocks, modules, and circuits may also include antennas and / or transceivers for communication with various components within a network or device. A general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor, but alternatively, the processor may be any conventional processor, controller, or state machine. The processor may also be implemented as a combination of computing devices, such as a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, a combination of multiple microprocessors, a combination of one or more microprocessors combined with a DSP core, or any other suitable configuration for performing the functions described herein.

[0233] If implemented in software, these functions can be stored as one or more instructions or code on a computer-readable medium. Therefore, the steps of the methods or algorithms disclosed herein can be implemented as software stored on a computer-readable medium. Computer-readable media include computer storage media and communication media, with communication media including any medium capable of transferring computer programs or code from one place to another. Storage media can be any available medium accessible to a computer. By way of example and not limitation, such computer-readable media may include RAM, ROM, EEPROM, CD-ROM or other optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium that can be used to store the desired program code in the form of instructions or data structures and is accessible to a computer.

[0234] In this document, the term "module" as used herein refers to software, firmware, hardware, and any combination of these elements used to perform the associated functions described herein. Furthermore, for purposes of discussion, individual modules are described as discrete modules; however, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that two or more modules can be combined to form a single module that performs the associated functions according to embodiments of this solution.

[0235] Additionally, in embodiments of this solution, memory or other memory and communication components may be employed. It should be understood that, for clarity, embodiments of this solution have been described above with reference to different functional units and processors. However, it is apparent that different functional units, any suitable functional distribution among processing logic elements or domains, can be used without diminishing the effectiveness of this solution. For example, functions shown as being performed by separate processing logic elements or controllers can be performed by the same processing logic element or controller. Therefore, references to specific functional units are merely references to suitable means for providing said functions and do not represent a strict logical or physical structure or organization.

[0236] Various modifications to the embodiments described in this disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be applied to other embodiments without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Therefore, this disclosure is not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown herein, but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the novel features and principles disclosed, as set forth in the following claims.

Claims

1. A wireless communication method, comprising: The first wireless communication device receives a system information block (SIB) from the wireless communication node, the system information block (SIB) indicating a common offset portion; as well as The first wireless communication device determines the offset between the first time domain label and the second time domain label. The first wireless communication device detects the Medium Access Control (MAC) Control Element (MAC CE) signaling transmitted from the wireless communication node at the first time domain label. The first wireless communication device then applies the MAC CE signaling at the second time domain label. The offset is determined based on the common offset portion and the UE-specific offset portion indicated by the MAC CE signaling, wherein the offset is a function of 2 to the power of u, where u is the subcarrier spacing configuration.

2. The wireless communication method according to claim 1, wherein the first wireless communication device applying the MAC CE signaling comprises: The configuration of the MAC CE signaling applied by the first wireless communication device from the wireless communication node.

3. The wireless communication method according to claim 1, wherein the first wireless communication device and the second wireless communication device identify the same common offset portion in response to satisfying at least one of the following conditions: The first wireless communication device and the second wireless communication device share the same time-frequency resources; The first wireless communication device and the second wireless communication device share the same demodulation reference signal (DMRS) resource group; The first wireless communication device and the second wireless communication device share the same quasi-co-address relationship; or The first wireless communication device and the second wireless communication device share the same UE group.

4. The wireless communication method according to claim 1, wherein the unit of the common offset portion is a time slot or a frame, and wherein the unit of the UE-specific offset portion is a time slot or a frame.

5. The wireless communication method according to claim 4, further comprising: The first wireless communication device receives, via signaling, at least one of the units of the common offset portion or the units of the UE-specific offset portion.

6. The wireless communication method according to claim 4, wherein at least one of the unit of the common offset portion or the unit of the UE-specific offset portion is predefined.

7. The wireless communication method of claim 6, wherein the unit of the common offset portion is predefined as the frame.

8. The wireless communication method according to claim 7, wherein the unit of the UE-dedicated offset portion is predefined as the time slot.

9. A first wireless communication device, comprising: One or more processors are configured as follows: A System Information Block (SIB) indicating a common offset portion is received from a wireless communication node via a transceiver. as well as The offset between the first time domain label and the second time domain label is determined. The first wireless communication device detects the Medium Access Control (MAC) Control Element (MAC CE) signaling transmitted from the wireless communication node at the first time domain label, and applies the MAC CE signaling at the second time domain label. The offset is determined based on the common offset portion and the UE-specific offset portion indicated by the MAC CE signaling, wherein the offset is a function of 2 to the power of u, where u is the subcarrier spacing configuration.

10. The first wireless communication device of claim 9, wherein the first wireless communication device applies the MAC CE signaling by applying a configuration of the MAC CE signaling from the wireless communication node.

11. The first wireless communication device of claim 9, wherein the first wireless communication device and the second wireless communication device identify the same common offset portion in response to satisfying at least one of the following conditions: The first wireless communication device and the second wireless communication device share the same time-frequency resources; The first wireless communication device and the second wireless communication device share the same demodulation reference signal (DMRS) resource group; The first wireless communication device and the second wireless communication device share the same quasi-co-address relationship; or The first wireless communication device and the second wireless communication device share the same UE group.

12. The first wireless communication device according to claim 9, wherein the unit of the common offset portion is a time slot or a frame, and wherein the unit of the UE-specific offset portion is a time slot or a frame.

13. The first wireless communication device according to claim 12, further comprising: The first wireless communication device receives, via signaling, at least one of the units of the common offset portion or the units of the UE-specific offset portion.

14. The first wireless communication device of claim 12, wherein at least one of the units of the common offset portion or the units of the UE-specific offset portion is predefined.

15. The first wireless communication device of claim 14, wherein the unit of the common offset portion is predefined as the frame.

16. The first wireless communication device of claim 15, wherein the unit of the UE-dedicated offset portion is predefined as the time slot.

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