Terminal, wireless communication method, and base station

Abstract

A terminal according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a reception unit that receives a signal transmitted using a plurality of antenna groups, and a control unit that controls reception processing assuming that different multiplexing methods are applied to the signal transmitted using the plurality of antenna groups. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, communication can be appropriately performed even in a case where distributed MIMO technology is effectively used.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to terminals, wireless communication methods, and base stations in next-generation mobile communication systems. Background Technology

[0002] In Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS) networks, Long Term Evolution (LTE) was standardized with the aim of achieving higher data rates and lower latency (Non-Patent Document 1). Furthermore, LTE-Advanced (3GPP Rel. 10-14) was standardized with the aim of further increasing capacity and improving the height of LTE (Third Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) Release (Rel.) 8, 9).

[0003] The development of successor systems to LTE is also underway (e.g., also known as the 5th generation mobile communication system (5G), 5G+, the 6th generation mobile communication system (6G), New Radio (NR), 3GPP Rel.15 and later, etc.).

[0004] Existing technical documents

[0005] Non-patent literature

[0006] Non-Patent Document 1: 3GPP TS 36.300V8.12.0 "Evolved Universal Terrestrial Radio Access (E-UTRA) and Evolved Universal Terrestrial Radio Access Network (E-UTRAN); Overall Description; Stage 2 (Release 8)", April 2010 Summary of the Invention

[0007] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0008] In NR versions after Rel.17, research is underway to extend regional coverage using millimeter-wave-based distributed MIMO (Multiple Input Multiple Output) in communication between user terminals (User Equipment (UE)) and networks (NW, such as base stations).

[0009] In research on distributed MIMO technology adopted after Rel.17, the method of using multiple antenna points to achieve MIMO transmission has not yet been studied. If this aspect remains unclear, there are concerns that it may inhibit the increase in communication throughput.

[0010] Therefore, one of the purposes of this disclosure is to provide a terminal, wireless communication method, and base station that can properly implement communication even when effectively utilizing distributed MIMO technology.

[0011] Solution for solving the problem

[0012] One aspect of this disclosure relates to a terminal comprising: a receiving unit for receiving signals transmitted by multiple antennas using more than one antenna group; and a control unit conceived of controlling the receiving process for the signals transmitted by the multiple antennas by applying different multiplexing methods.

[0013] The effects of the invention

[0014] According to one method of this disclosure, communication can be properly implemented even when the distributed MIMO technology is effectively utilized. Attached Figure Description

[0015] Figure 1 This is a diagram showing an example of an SFN inside a tunnel.

[0016] Figure 2A as well as Figure 2B This diagram illustrates an example of configuring multiple antennas or multiple TRPs around a base station.

[0017] Figure 3A as well as Figure 3B This is a diagram illustrating an example of the structure of antennas configured around a base station.

[0018] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating an example of communication based on antenna structure (1).

[0019] Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating an example of communication based on antenna structure (2).

[0020] Figure 6A as well as Figure 6BThis is a diagram illustrating an example of communication based on antenna structure (2).

[0021] Figure 7A as well as Figure 7B This is a diagram illustrating an example of the relationship between an antenna point and an antenna group.

[0022] Figure 8A as well as Figure 8B This is a diagram illustrating an example of the relationship between an antenna point and an antenna group.

[0023] Figure 9 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the relationship between antenna points, antenna ports, and antenna groups.

[0024] Figure 10A as well as Figure 10B This is a diagram illustrating an example of MIMO transmission using an antenna group (one antenna group is used).

[0025] Figure 11A as well as Figure 11B This is a diagram illustrating an example of MIMO transmission across multiple antenna groups (using multiple antenna groups).

[0026] Figures 12A-12C This is a diagram illustrating a codeword mapping and an example of HARQ-ACK transmission.

[0027] Figure 13A as well as Figure 13B This is a diagram representing an example of a HARQ-ACK resource.

[0028] Figure 14 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the schematic structure of a wireless communication system according to one embodiment.

[0029] Figure 15 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the structure of a base station according to one implementation method.

[0030] Figure 16 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the structure of a user terminal involved in one implementation method.

[0031] Figure 17 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the hardware structure of a base station and a user terminal involved in one implementation method. Detailed Implementation

[0032] In subsequent LTE systems (e.g., 5th generation mobile communication system (5G), 5G+, New Radio (NR)), millimeter-wave wireless communication methods were introduced. In Rel. 15NR, hybrid beamforming based on Massive MIMO (e.g., beam management) was introduced, and in Rel. 16NR, Distributed MIMO (Multi-TRP) was introduced, thereby improving downlink shared channel (PDSCH) communication speed and reliability.

[0033] In NR versions after Rel.17, improvements in communication speed and reliability are expected based on distributed MIMO (multiple TRP) and channels other than the downlink shared channel (PDSCH). Furthermore, in NR versions after Rel.17, improvements in beam management are anticipated in scenarios using high-speed moving vehicles such as trams (HTS).

[0034] However, the aforementioned improvements in communication speed and reliability are best-effort type and their application is limited to certain areas.

[0035] In subsequent NR systems (e.g., also known as 5G+, 6G, etc.), compared to the aforementioned 5G, higher data rates / capacity, wider coverage, lower energy / cost, lower latency, higher reliability, and more connectivity are required. Additionally, in this disclosure, "A / B" can also mean "at least one of A and B".

[0036] Along with the aforementioned requirements of 6G, we expect a shift from best-effort service to quality-assured communication. Furthermore, we anticipate that high-speed / high-reliability communication will be extended to applications in all regions, rather than just those limited to specific areas.

[0037] There are several challenges to wireless communication methods utilizing millimeter waves. For example, there are concerns about increased propagation loss due to increased communication distance, increased non-line-of-sight (non-line-of-sight) loss due to the high linearity of radio waves, difficulties in implementing high-order SU-MIMO (Single User MIMO) due to the limited number of multipath paths, and increased device density due to the increased size of the devices.

[0038] In LTE systems, a single-frequency network (SFN) is used, which utilizes multiple small antennas within a building (e.g., tunnels, buildings, etc.), where each antenna has the same cell ID. An SFN is a method of using multiple antennas to simultaneously transmit the same signal within the same physical resource block (PRB), and the receiving UE assumes that the signal was transmitted from a single point.

[0039] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating an example of an SFN (Small Formation No.) within a tunnel. Figure 1 In this configuration, for example, a large antenna is positioned outside the tunnel (e.g., near the tunnel entrance), while a small antenna is positioned inside the tunnel. The large antenna can be, for example, an antenna with a transmit power of approximately 1-5W. The small antenna can be, for example, an antenna with a transmit power of approximately 250mW. The large antenna can also transmit downlink (DL) signals both inside and outside the tunnel, while the small antenna can also transmit DL signals inside the tunnel. The large antenna can also be used for handover before the UE enters the tunnel. Figure 1 Both large and small antennas can simultaneously transmit the same DL signal to a UE within the same PRB. Additionally, Figure 1 The configuration and transmission power of each antenna in the example are just one instance, and are not limited to this one. Furthermore, the SFN within the tunnel can also be replaced with an IMCS (In-building Mobile Communication System).

[0040] Additionally, in this disclosure, "transmission of DL signals in the antenna" can be replaced with "reception of uplink (UL) signals in the antenna". Furthermore, "reception of DL signals in the UE" can be replaced with "transmission of UL signals in the UE".

[0041] To expand the effective utilization area of ​​distributed MIMO using millimeter waves, methods for distributing multiple antenna points are being investigated. For example, it could also be... Figure 2A The method shown is to ensure high-speed, high-reliability areas by starting with low-frequency base stations with wider coverage and then deploying multiple high-frequency antennas with narrower coverage areas.

[0042] In addition, in this disclosure, a low-frequency base station with a wide coverage area can also be simply referred to as a base station. Furthermore, a high-frequency antenna with a narrow coverage area can also be simply referred to as an antenna.

[0043] These multiple antennas can be installed both outdoors and indoors, such as on ceilings or walls. For example, they can be placed near indoor lighting sources, which increases the likelihood of multiple indoor UEs being within the field of view and reduces propagation loss.

[0044] Figure 2A This diagram illustrates an example of configuring multiple antennas around a base station. For example, as shown... Figure 2A Such a method of spreading antenna points can be achieved at low cost, but it is difficult to optimize the efficiency of resource utilization. If the distance of the high-frequency antenna is extended, there is a problem of increased propagation loss.

[0045] On the other hand, in order to expand the area where distributed MIMO utilizing millimeter waves can be effectively utilized, methods are being investigated to extend a portion of the base station's functionality to the periphery of the high-frequency antenna. This method is similar to configuring multiple transmission / reception points (TRPs) around the base station.

[0046] Figure 2B This diagram illustrates an example of configuring multiple TRPs around a base station. For example, as shown... Figure 2B Such a method of extending multiple TRPs to the periphery of the base station can control resources on a per-TRP basis, and even if the distance between TRPs is extended, propagation loss can be reduced by effectively utilizing optical fibers, etc.

[0047] In addition, in this disclosure, "antenna point" can also mean "antenna corresponding to (or equivalent to) a physical antenna element" or "antenna corresponding to (or equivalent to) multiple physical antenna elements (physical antenna elements)". Furthermore, "antenna port" can also mean "antenna of a signal processing unit consisting of one or more antenna points", "signal processing unit corresponding to one or more antenna points", or "logical entity corresponding to a signal output from one or more antenna points", etc. Furthermore, "antenna group" can also mean "multiple antennas consisting of one or more antenna points" or "multiple antennas consisting of one or more antenna ports".

[0048] Furthermore, in this disclosure, "antenna point" can also be interchanged with "antenna end", "antenna port", "antenna group", "antenna element", "antenna position", "high-frequency antenna point", "high-frequency antenna end", "high-frequency antenna port", "high-frequency antenna group", "high-frequency antenna element", "high-frequency antenna position", etc.

[0049] Furthermore, in this disclosure, "antenna group" can also be used interchangeably with "antenna array", "antenna collection", "high-frequency antenna group", "high-frequency antenna array", "high-frequency antenna collection", etc.

[0050] Two structures are being investigated as a method to expand the area that effectively utilizes distributed MIMO that leverages millimeter waves and to distribute multiple antenna points.

[0051] One is, such as Figure 3ATherefore, a structure is being studied in which high-frequency antennas are connected by wires and extend continuously in a certain direction (antenna structure (1)). In the case of this antenna structure, although the structural cost can be suppressed, it is believed that the antenna loss becomes greater the farther away from the base station the antenna is.

[0052] Another one is, such as Figure 3B Therefore, a structure for relaying a portion of the antennas (e.g., using optical fibers, IABs, etc.) is being studied (antenna structure (2)). With this antenna structure, antenna loss can be suppressed even for antennas that are far from the base station.

[0053] In the case of antenna structure (1), the same signal can be transmitted from all antenna points. If a UE is present near any one of the multiple high-frequency antenna points, DL communication can be performed on that UE. In this case, the NW does not need to identify which antenna the UE is near, thus suppressing overhead. However, if the same transmission signal is transmitted from all antenna points, the frequency utilization efficiency at that location deteriorates.

[0054] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating an example of communication based on antenna structure (1). Figure 4 In this case, a DL signal directed towards UE1 is transmitted from a high-frequency antenna. UE1, located near the high-frequency antenna, is able to communicate. The transmitted signal to UE1 from a high-frequency antenna farther from the base station contributes less to improving the received signal to UE1. Therefore, it is preferable to also effectively utilize frequency resources for UE2 and other devices located near the high-frequency antenna.

[0055] In order to solve the problem of the antenna structure (1) mentioned above, it is considered to divide a series of antenna points into multiple antenna points, set up an antenna group consisting of multiple consecutive antenna points, and send an independent transmission signal for each antenna group.

[0056] Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating an example of communication based on antenna structure (2). For example, as shown... Figure 5 In this way, when the antenna points closer to the base station (antenna points #1-#4) are set as the first antenna group and the antenna points farther from the base station (antenna points #5-#8) are set as the second antenna group, UE1, which is near the first antenna group, and UE2, which is near the second antenna group, can communicate with the NW appropriately.

[0057] in addition, Figure 5 The example structure has the ability to schedule base stations on a per-antenna-group basis, which can either relay per antenna group (e.g., relay based on fiber optic extensions, etc.) or have a portion of the base station functionality per antenna group.

[0058] In antenna structure (2), the same DL signal / reference signal (RS) can be transmitted from each antenna group. In addition, in antenna structure (2), the same (common) DL signal / RS can be transmitted from a portion of the antenna groups, or different DL signals / RS can be transmitted from other antenna groups.

[0059] Figure 6A as well as Figure 6B This is a diagram illustrating an example of communication based on antenna structure (2). Figure 6A In the first antenna group and the second antenna group, a common DL signal is transmitted to UE1 and UE2. On the other hand, in Figure 6B In the first antenna group, DL signal 1 is transmitted for UE1, and DL signal 2 is transmitted for UE2 in the second antenna group.

[0060] (TCI, Spatial Relations, QCL)

[0061] The following is being studied in NR: receiving processing (e.g., at least one of receiving, demapping, demodulation, and decoding) and transmitting processing (e.g., at least one of transmitting, mapping, precoding, modulation, and encoding) in a UE based on at least one of the Transmission Configuration Indication state (TCI state), control signals, and channels (hereinafter referred to as signals / channels).

[0062] TCI states can also represent the states of signals / channels applied to the downlink. States equivalent to the TCI states of signals / channels applied to the uplink can also be described as spatial relations.

[0063] The TCI status refers to information related to the quasi-co-location (QCL) of a signal / channel, and can also be called spatial reception parameters, spatial relation information, etc. The TCI status can be set for the UE on a per-channel or per-signal basis.

[0064] In addition, in this disclosure, the TCI status of DL can also be interchanged with the spatial relationship of UL, the TCI status of UL, etc.

[0065] QCL is an indicator of the statistical properties of a signal / channel. For example, it can also mean that if a signal / channel has a QCL relationship with other signals / channels, it can be assumed that at least one of the following is the same among these different signals / channels: Doppler shift, Doppler spread, average delay, delay spread, and spatial parameter (e.g., spatial Rx parameter) (with regard to at least one of them is the QCL).

[0066] Additionally, the spatial reception parameters may also correspond to the UE's receive beam (e.g., receive analog beam), and the beam may also be determined based on the spatial QCL. The QCL (or at least one element of the QCL) in this disclosure may also be replaced with sQCL (spatial QCL).

[0067] Regarding QCL, multiple types (QCL types) can also be specified. For example, four QCL types AD can be set, in which the parameters (or parameter sets) that can be assumed to be the same are different. The parameters (also referred to as QCL parameters) are represented as follows:

[0068] • QCL Type A (QCL-A): Doppler shift, Doppler spread, average delay, and delay spread.

[0069] • QCL Type B (QCL-B): Doppler shift and Doppler extension.

[0070] • QCL Type C (QCL-C): Doppler shift and average delay,

[0071] • QCL type D (QCL-D): Space reception parameters.

[0072] The UE envisions a specific Control Resource Set (CORESET), channel, or reference signal being in a specific QCL (e.g., QCL type D) relationship with other CORESETs, channels, or reference signals. This situation can also be referred to as QCL assumption.

[0073] The UE can also determine at least one of the transmit beam (Tx beam) and receive beam (Rx beam) of the signal / channel based on the TCI state or QCL assumption of the signal / channel.

[0074] The TCI state can also be, for example, information related to the QCL between the target channel (in other words, the reference signal (RS) used by the channel) and other signals (e.g., other RSs). The TCI state can also be set (indicated) by higher-layer signaling, physical-layer signaling, or a combination thereof.

[0075] In this disclosure, higher-layer signaling may be, for example, any one or a combination of Radio Resource Control (RRC) signaling, Medium Access Control (MAC) signaling, broadcast information, etc.

[0076] MAC signaling can also use MAC Control Element (MAC CE) or MAC Protocol Data Unit (PDU). Broadcast information can also be Master Information Block (MIB), System Information Block (SIB), Remaining Minimum System Information (RMSI), or Other System Information (OSI).

[0077] Physical layer signaling can also be, for example, downlink control information (DCI).

[0078] The channel that is set (specified) to TCI state or spatial relationship can be, for example, at least one of the following: downlink shared channel (Physical Downlink Shared Channel (PDSCH))), downlink control channel (Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH))), uplink shared channel (Physical Uplink Shared Channel (PUSCH))), and uplink control channel (Physical Uplink Control Channel (PUCCH))).

[0079] Furthermore, the RS that is related to the channel as QCL can be at least one of the following: a Synchronization Signal Block (SSB), a Channel State Information Reference Signal (CSI-RS), a Measurement Reference Signal (Sounding Reference Signal (SRS)), a Tracking CSI-RS (also known as a Tracking Reference Signal (TRS)), or a QCL Detection Reference Signal (also known as a QRS).

[0080] An SSB is a block of signals that contains at least one Primary Synchronization Signal (PSS), Secondary Synchronization Signal (SSS), and broadcast channel (Physical Broadcast Channel (PBCH)). An SSB can also be referred to as an SS / PBCH block.

[0081] The TCI state information element (RRC's "TCI-state IE") set via higher-layer signaling may also contain one or more QCL information ("QCL-Info"). The QCL information may also contain at least one information related to the RS that forms a QCL relationship (RS relationship information) and information indicating the QCL type (QCL type information). The RS relationship information may also contain information such as the RS's index (e.g., SSB index, Non-Zero-Power (NZP) CSI-RS resource ID (identifier)), the cell index of the RS, and the index of the Bandwidth Part (BWP) of the RS.

[0082] In Rel.15NR, as a TCI state of at least one of PDCCH and PDSCH, both RS of QCL type A and RS of QCL type D, or only RS of QCL type A, can be set to the UE.

[0083] When the RS is set as QCL type A, it is assumed that the TRS is different from the DeModulation Reference Signal (DMRS) of the PDCCH or PDSCH, and the same TRS is periodically transmitted for a long time. The UE can measure the TRS and calculate the average delay, delay spread, etc.

[0084] For a UE whose TRS is set as a QCL type A RS in the TCI state of the DMRS of the PDCCH or PDSCH, it can be assumed that the parameters (average delay, delay spread, etc.) of the DMRS of the PDCCH or PDSCH are the same as those of the QCL type A of the TRS. Therefore, the parameters (average delay, delay spread, etc.) of the DMRS of the PDCCH or PDSCH can be calculated based on the measurement results of the TRS. When performing channel estimation for at least one of the PDCCH and PDSCH, the UE can use the measurement results of the TRS to perform more accurate channel estimation.

[0085] A UE with a QCL type D RS can use the QCL type D RS to determine the UE receive beam (spatial domain receive filter, UE spatial domain receive filter).

[0086] The RS of QCL type X in TCI state can also represent the RS that is in a relationship with a certain channel / signal (DMRS) in QCL type X, and this RS can also be called the QCL source of QCL type X in TCI state.

[0087] However, in the distributed MIMO technology adopted after Rel. 17 that utilizes the aforementioned antenna structure, the method of using multiple antenna points to achieve MIMO transmission has not yet been studied. If this aspect remains unclear, there are concerns that it may inhibit the increase in communication throughput.

[0088] Therefore, the inventors of this invention have conceived of a method for properly communicating even when using distributed MIMO technology that utilizes the above-described antenna structure.

[0089] Hereinafter, with reference to the accompanying drawings, the embodiments involved in this disclosure will be described in detail. Each embodiment can be applied individually or in combination.

[0090] (Wireless communication method)

[0091] <First Implementation Method>

[0092] The inventors of this invention considered the large physical distance between antenna points within an antenna group, which could cause phase shifts in the signal at each antenna point, and conceived of the first embodiment.

[0093] Alternatively, different TCI states can be set for each antenna point. In other words, the UE can also be conceived as having a TCI state set separately for each antenna point (e.g., different TCI states). Furthermore, in this disclosure, the TCI state can also be interchanged with at least one of the following: DL TCI state, UL TCI state, unified TCI state, spatial relationship, QCL, QCL concept, and QCL type.

[0094] For example, the UE can also be designed to have its TCI state set individually for each antenna point. That is, different TCI states can be set for multiple antenna points. Furthermore, the UE can also be designed to have its TCI state set individually for a set of multiple antenna points.

[0095] Furthermore, the UE can also be designed to have a specific QCL type (e.g., QCL type D) assigned on a per-antenna-group basis. For example, the UE can also be designed to have at least a specific QCL type that is the same between antenna points in the same CDM (Code Division Multiplexing) group (e.g., between antenna points multiplexed in at least one of the code domain, spatial domain, and beam domain), and to receive the DeModulation Reference Signal (DMRS) corresponding to that CDM group. Additionally, the UE can also be designed to have different QCL types other than the specific type between antenna points in different CDM groups (e.g., between antenna points multiplexed in at least one of the time domain and frequency domain), and to receive the DMRS corresponding to that CDM group.

[0096] Furthermore, in this disclosure, CDM group, group, CORESET, PDSCH, codeword, antenna port group (e.g., DMRS port group), reference signal group, CORESET group, etc., can be interchanged. Additionally, antenna group and TRP can also be interchanged.

[0097] The QCL (Quality Classification) settings for the aforementioned antenna points can also be performed via higher-layer signaling (e.g., RRC signaling), physical-layer signaling (e.g., DCI), or a combination thereof. For example, the QCL for more than one antenna point can also be semi-statically set via RRC signaling. Furthermore, the QCL for more than one antenna point can be selected from those semi-statically set via RRC signaling via MAC CE. The QCL for more than one antenna point can also be selected from those semi-statically set via RRC signaling via MAC CE, and further selected from those selected via MAC CE via DCI.

[0098] According to the TCI state (QCL) setting method in the first embodiment described above, communication can be carried out appropriately even when the physical distance between antenna points is large.

[0099] Furthermore, at least one of the UE and NW can also perform signal processing (e.g., precoding) independently on each antenna point within an antenna group. At least one of the UE and NW is required to perform transmission and reception processing based on antenna points with different phases within the antenna group. Therefore, it is preferable to know the channel state (including phase differences) between the UE and each antenna point.

[0100] For example, the UE can also transmit a UL reference signal (RS) (e.g., SRS), and the NW can perform channel state information (CSI) measurements based on this reference signal. In this case, the NW can appropriately measure the channel, which includes the phase differences of each antenna point.

[0101] Furthermore, for example, in the case of CSI measurement via DL RS, the UE can also perform CSI measurement based on a new CSI codebook that takes into account the phase difference of the signals between antenna points. In other words, the UE can also perform signal processing on the DL signals received from each antenna point based on this newly defined codebook. For example, the UE can also refer to a codebook for a single panel, envisioning one panel corresponding to one antenna point to perform CSI measurements for multiple panels. Additionally, these multiple panels can be incoherent.

[0102] In addition, in this disclosure, CSI can be measured at each antenna point, at each antenna port, at each antenna group, or at each of multiple antenna groups.

[0103] According to the CSI measurement method in the first embodiment described above, appropriate communication that takes into account the phase difference of each antenna point can be performed.

[0104] <Second Implementation Method>

[0105] The following explains the relationship between antenna points and antenna groups consisting of one or more antenna points. The number of antenna points constituting an antenna group shown in the following description is only one example and is not limited to this.

[0106] The UE can also envision associating antenna points with antenna groups based on a certain rule. This rule can also be specified in advance in the specification. For example, X antenna points (where X is any natural number) can be considered as a unit of an antenna group, and X can also be specified in the specification. For example, as... Figure 7AAs shown, an antenna group can also be formed by arranging four antenna points together.

[0107] Furthermore, the UE can also envision associating antenna points with antenna groups via higher-layer signaling, physical-layer signaling, or a combination thereof (to notify, set, update, activate, or deactivate at least one of these functions). In this case, flexible communication control corresponding to the distribution of multiple UEs, traffic volume, etc., is possible.

[0108] For example, such as Figure 7B As shown, the association between antenna points and antenna groups can also be updated through higher-layer signaling, physical-layer signaling, or a combination thereof.

[0109] Furthermore, the antenna points within an antenna group do not necessarily have to be contiguous. For example, information about the antenna points within an antenna group can also be provided to the UE via a bitmap.

[0110] Alternatively, the antenna point number (ID, index) can also be a local number within each antenna group. For example, such as... Figure 8A As shown in the example, antenna points can also be numbered in ascending order within each antenna group (in this case, #0-#3). Furthermore, antenna point numbers can be common across antenna groups. In this case, the antenna point numbers constituting different antenna groups can be either common or different. For example, as... Figure 8B As shown in the example, the same antenna point number can also be set (in this case, #0).

[0111] In addition, in this disclosure, ascending order can also be replaced with descending order.

[0112] Furthermore, the association between antenna points corresponding to (or specified, indicated) physical antenna elements (or a collection of physical antenna elements) and antenna ports of the signal processing unit can also be set (or specified, indicated). For example, such as Figure 9 As shown in the example, it is also possible to set numbers that associate the antenna points and antenna ports of the signal processing unit contained in the first and second antenna groups.

[0113] The association of antenna points, antenna ports, and antenna groups can also be explicitly notified to the UE through higher-layer signaling, physical-layer signaling, or a combination thereof.

[0114] For example, the association of antenna points, antenna ports, and antenna groups can also be notified to the UE via higher-layer signaling (e.g., RRC signaling, MAC CE).

[0115] Furthermore, regarding the association of antenna points, antenna ports, and antenna groups, multiple associations can be notified to the UE via higher-layer signaling (e.g., RRC signaling, MAC CE). The UE can also determine one association from these multiple associations via the DCI. This DCI can also be the DCI of the scheduling control channel / shared channel, and can also be specified with an indication field related to the association of antenna points, antenna ports, and antenna groups. The size of this indication field can also be Ceil(log2(M)) bits. In this case, M can also be the number of candidates notified to the UE via higher-layer signaling (or the number of the aforementioned associations set for the UE). Additionally, Ceil(X) in this disclosure can also represent the floor function of X.

[0116] Furthermore, the UE can also implicitly determine the relationship between antenna points, antenna ports, and antenna groups.

[0117] For example, regarding the association of antenna points, antenna ports, and antenna groups, the UE can also implicitly determine this based on the physical resources of the DCI (or the PDCCH transmitting the DCI). The physical resources of the DCI can also be at least one of the DCI's time resources, frequency resources, Control Channel Element (CCE) index, search space index, Control Resource Set (CORESET) index, or aggregation level. For example, the UE can also envision the following value as the value associated with the association of antenna points, antenna ports, and antenna groups indicated by the NW: this number is the remainder after dividing the CCE index value (or the aggregation level value, or the value obtained by dividing the CCE index by the aggregation level) by a certain integer.

[0118] Furthermore, for example, the UE may envision that the antenna points, antenna ports, and antenna groups for data scheduling based on the DCI are determined by the association between the antenna points, antenna ports, and antenna groups in the DCI. For example, the UE may also envision that the association between the antenna points, antenna ports, and antenna groups in the DCI is common to the association between the antenna points, antenna ports, and antenna groups for data scheduling based on the DCI. Furthermore, for example, the UE may also apply a transformation to the association between the antenna points, antenna ports, and antenna groups in the DCI to determine the association between the antenna points, antenna ports, and antenna groups for data scheduling based on the DCI.

[0119] In addition, for example, the UE may also be conceived as having its antenna points, antenna ports, and antenna groups determined based on the TCI state of the DCI (or the PDCCH that transmits the DCI).

[0120] Furthermore, the association between antenna points and antenna groups described in the second embodiment can be the same or different in the uplink and downlink. Moreover, this association can be set, activated, and determined on a per-channel or per-reference-signal basis, or it can be set, activated, and determined commonly for multiple channels / reference signals.

[0121] According to the second embodiment described above, the UE can perform appropriate communication based on the association between antenna points, antenna ports, and antenna groups.

[0122] <Third Implementation Method>

[0123] In high-frequency bands such as millimeter waves, propagation loss is high, and propagation loss is also high for out-of-field communication. Therefore, in this high-frequency band, there is a tendency for the number of channel paths to decrease, and the fading experienced by communication tends to be frequency-flat fading.

[0124] In high-rank MIMO transmission, uncorrelated paths (uncorrelated channels) between the transmitting and receiving antennas are required. Therefore, achieving high rank is difficult in the high-frequency band. On the other hand, if the antenna ports are physically separated, the paths between each antenna port and the UE can be made different, and uncorrelated channels corresponding to the number of antennas can be expected.

[0125] In this case, even if it is not a single-path channel, it is still considered a multipath channel because the paths from the multiple transmitting ports on the TRP side to the receiving ports on the UE side are different, thus enabling appropriate use of MIMO spatial multiplexing.

[0126] Therefore, in the third embodiment, it is proposed to use multiple antenna points that are physically far apart to transmit (MIMO transmission).

[0127] [MIMO transmission using antenna groups]

[0128] In the third embodiment, the network (e.g., a base station) may also perform MIMO transmission using more than one antenna group according to at least one of the following (A) and (B):

[0129] (A) MIMO transmission on an antenna group basis (using one antenna group),

[0130] (B) MIMO transmission across antenna groups (using multiple antenna groups).

[0131] The UE can also determine which of the above (A) and (B) to perform MIMO transmission based on higher-layer signaling, physical-layer signaling, or a combination thereof.

[0132] In case (A) above, the network can also use multiple antenna points / ports within a certain antenna group for multi-antenna transmission. In case (B) above, the network can also use more than one antenna point / port within the first antenna group and more than one antenna point / port within the second antenna group for multi-antenna transmission.

[0133] Furthermore, the multi-antenna transmission of this disclosure can also be implemented using spatial multiplexing, spatial diversity, etc. In addition, the multi-antenna transmission of this disclosure can also be applied to the transmission from the network of reference signals associated with PDSCH, PDCCH, other channels, and antenna ports described later.

[0134] The network can also determine one or more antenna points / ports / groups to be used in MIMO transmission for a particular UE based on at least one of the measurement results of the antenna point / port / group unit transmitted from the UE, or the result of measuring the reference signal transmitted from the UE using the antenna point / port / group.

[0135] The UE can also determine one or more antenna groups used for MIMO transmission for this terminal based on the second implementation described above.

[0136] The UE and the network can also associate antenna ports with individual antenna points within the antenna group. Additionally, the network can use higher-layer signaling, physical-layer signaling, or a combination thereof to notify the UE of information related to the antenna points / ports actually used in MIMO transmission.

[0137] The UE can also be conceived as consisting of pseudo antenna points / ports (also known as virtual antenna points / ports) formed by the antenna points / ports actually used in MIMO transmission. Virtual antenna points / ports can consist only of antenna points / ports within an antenna group, or they can include antenna points / ports spanning multiple antenna groups. Furthermore, virtual antenna points / ports used for a multi-antenna transmission can also constitute a virtual antenna group.

[0138] In addition, a virtual antenna point / port can also be equivalent to an antenna point / port that is activated based on higher-layer signaling, physical-layer signaling, or a combination thereof.

[0139] In addition, each antenna point (or each virtual antenna point) within an antenna group (or antenna group) can either transmit the same data or perform signal processing independently to transmit it.

[0140] Each antenna port can also be associated with at least one of the following reference signals: DeModulation Reference Signal (DMRS), Channel State Information Reference Signal (CSI-RS), Synchronization Signal Block (SSB), Tracking CSI-RS (also known as Tracking Reference Signal (TRS)), and other reference signals.

[0141] Additionally, the resources in this disclosure can be replaced with at least one of time resources, frequency resources, code resources, sequences, cyclic shift (CS) and orthogonal cover code (OCC). Furthermore, resources can also be replaced with fields (e.g., time resources can be replaced with the time domain).

[0142] Figure 10A as well as Figure 10B This is a diagram illustrating an example of MIMO transmission using an antenna group (one antenna group is used). Figure 10A Corresponding to (A) above. In this example, it represents a first antenna group capable of implementing maximum 4-layer MIMO transmission using antenna points / ports #0-#3, and a second antenna group capable of implementing maximum 4-layer MIMO transmission using antenna points / ports #0-#3.

[0143] As in this example, antenna points / ports only need to be identifiable within the antenna group, and the same antenna point / port number can be used in multiple antenna groups. Alternatively, unique antenna point / port numbers can be used in multiple antenna groups. Furthermore, in this disclosure, it is envisioned that the smaller the difference in the numbers of multiple antenna points / ports, the closer these antenna points / ports are in physical locations, but this is not limited to this.

[0144] In the case described in (A) above, the UE may also be notified using higher-layer signaling, physical-layer signaling, or a combination thereof, of information about the antenna group used for multi-antenna transmission, information about the antenna points / ports used in multi-antenna transmission within that antenna group, etc. The UE may also determine (switch over) the antenna group and antenna points / ports used for multi-antenna transmission based on this information.

[0145] In addition, Figure 10AIn the case of (A) above, the resources of multiple consecutively numbered antenna points / ports (e.g., RS resources, channel resources) can also be multiplexed using at least one of code resources, sequences, CS, and OCC, and the resources of multiple non-consecutively numbered antenna points / ports can also be multiplexed using at least one of time, frequency, and spatial resources. Figure 10B In other words, the UE can also be conceived as a multiplexing method applied to resources of multiple antenna points with consecutive numbers, which differs from a multiplexing method applied to resources of multiple antenna points / ports with non-consecutive numbers. Furthermore, in this disclosure, multiplexing can also be replaced by orthogonalization, mapping, etc.

[0146] Figure 10B The following example is shown: when using Figure 10A In the MIMO transmission of the first antenna group, ports #0 and #1 are multiplexed using at least one of code, sequence, CS and OCC, ports #2 and #3 are multiplexed using at least one of code, sequence, CS and OCC, and the groups of ports #0 and #1 and ports #2 and #3 are multiplexed using at least one of time, frequency and space.

[0147] The rationale for this approach is that if codes or sequences are used for multiplexing, the proximity problem (where orthogonality is broken when there is a large difference in received power between multiple orthogonally multiplexed signals) can occur. It is assumed that the power difference between ports #0 and #1 (and the power difference between ports #2 and #3) is small (due to their proximity), thus minimizing the impact of the proximity problem. On the other hand, the groups of ports #0 and #1 are far apart from the groups of ports #2 and #3, raising concerns about the proximity problem; therefore, time / frequency / spatial multiplexing is preferred.

[0148] In the scenario described in (A) above, the UE can also be conceived as being applied to the transmitted signal from the antenna group, such as Figure 10B Such multiplexing is used to receive and process one or more channels / signals.

[0149] Figure 11A as well as Figure 11B This is a diagram illustrating an example of MIMO transmission across multiple antenna groups (using multiple antenna groups). Figure 11A Corresponding to (B) above. In this example, it represents a first antenna group containing antenna points / ports #0-#3 and a second antenna group containing antenna points / ports #0-#3.

[0150] The UE activates ports #2 and #3 of the first antenna group and ports #0 and #1 of the second antenna group as ports for MIMO transmission. In other words, the UE is configured (or activated, indicated) to use a virtual antenna group that can perform up to 4 layers of MIMO transmission as virtual antenna points / ports #0-#3.

[0151] Furthermore, the mapping between antenna points / ports of an antenna group and virtual antenna points / ports can be explicitly communicated to the UE using higher-layer signaling, physical-layer signaling, etc., or it can be predetermined based on specifications. For example, the UE can map antenna points / ports rearranged in ascending order from the smaller numbered antenna points / ports of an antenna group. Additionally, at least one instance of "smaller" in this document can be replaced with "larger," and at least one instance of "ascending order" can be replaced with "descending order."

[0152] In addition, Figure 11A In the case of (B) above, the resources of multiple antenna points / ports within the same antenna group (e.g., RS resources, channel resources) can also be multiplexed using at least one of code resources, sequences, CS, and OCC. The resources of multiple antenna points / ports between different antenna groups can also be multiplexed using at least one of time, frequency, and spatial resources. Figure 11B In other words, the UE can also be conceived as a multiplexing method of resources applied to multiple antenna points of a certain antenna group, which is different from the multiplexing method of resources applied to antenna points of a certain antenna group and the multiplexing method of resources of antenna points of different antenna groups.

[0153] Figure 11B The following example is shown: when using Figure 11A In the MIMO transmission of the virtual antenna group, virtual ports #0 and #1 are multiplexed using at least one of code, sequence, CS and OCC, virtual ports #2 and #3 are multiplexed using at least one of code, sequence, CS and OCC, and the group of virtual ports #0 and #1 and the group of virtual ports #2 and #3 are multiplexed using at least one of time, frequency and space.

[0154] The rationale for this approach is that if multiplexing is performed using codes, sequences, etc., it would be affected by the proximity issue. It is assumed that the power difference between virtual ports #0 / #1 within the same first antenna group (and the power difference between virtual ports #2 / #3 within the same second antenna group) is small, thus minimizing the impact of the proximity issue. On the other hand, since the groups of virtual ports #0 and #1 and virtual ports #2 and #3 belong to different antenna groups, they are far apart, raising concerns about proximity issues. Therefore, time / frequency / spatial multiplexing is preferred.

[0155] In the scenario described in (B) above, the UE can also be conceived as being applied to the transmitted signal from the virtual antenna group, such as Figure 11B Such multiplexing is used to receive and process one or more channels / signals.

[0156] [Codeword, layer mapping, and HARQ-ACK transmission]

[0157] The data transmitted in each MIMO layer can be either the same data or different data. Furthermore, in this disclosure, "data" can also be replaced by at least one of data, information, code word (CW), or transport block (TB).

[0158] The UE can be conceived as receiving different data for each antenna group, or as receiving different data for each antenna point. Alternatively, the same data can be received for multiple antenna groups or multiple antenna points.

[0159] The UE can also be notified of information related to whether the data sent in each layer is the same or different, using higher-layer signaling, physical-layer signaling, or a combination thereof.

[0160] In addition, when the data sent in each layer is the same, the UE can send the delivery confirmation information for the data in each layer (for example, it can also be called Hybrid Automatic Repeat Request ACK knowledgement (HARQ-ACK), ACK / NACK, etc.) as a single value, or it can send HARQ-ACK independently for each piece of data.

[0161] When the data transmitted in each layer is different, the UE can either transmit one or more values ​​of HARQ-ACK bits bound to the data for each layer, or it can transmit HARQ-ACK independently for each data. Alternatively, the UE can be designed to transmit one codeword for each antenna group and generate one HARQ-ACK bit for each codeword.

[0162] The UE can also generate HARQ-ACK bits for each antenna point / port / group. The UE can either send multiple HARQ-ACK bits for multiple generated antenna points / ports / groups through a single feedback set (also known as joint HARQ-ACK feedback), or send them independently through multiple feedback sets (also known as independent HARQ-ACK feedback).

[0163] In the case of joint HARQ-ACK feedback, the UE can also concatenate (maintain bit count) or bundle (AND operation to reduce bit count) the above multiple HARQ-ACK bits and send them through a PUCCH or PUSCH.

[0164] In the case of independent HARQ-ACK feedback, the UE can also send the above multiple HARQ-ACK bits by each antenna point, each antenna port, or each antenna group through a PUCCH or PUSCH.

[0165] The UE can also determine (or switch) the feedback type based on higher-layer signaling, physical layer signaling, or a combination thereof (in other words, whether to use joint HARQ-ACK feedback or independent HARQ-ACK feedback).

[0166] The UE can also be notified of information related to the HARQ-ACK feedback using higher-layer signaling, physical-layer signaling, or a combination thereof (as mentioned above, whether to make a connection or a binding, and through which unit (antenna point, port, group) the feedback is made).

[0167] Figures 12A-12C This is a diagram illustrating a codeword mapping and an example of HARQ-ACK transmission. In this example, with... Figure 11A Similarly, the UE is configured (or activated, indicated) to have a virtual antenna group containing virtual antenna points / ports #0-#3.

[0168] like Figure 12A As shown, the UE can also receive CW1 from the first antenna group (virtual antenna points #0-#1) and CW2 from the second antenna group (virtual antenna points #2-#3). Figure 12B This is a diagram illustrating an example of independent HARQ-ACK feedback. Figure 12C This is a diagram illustrating an example of combined HARQ-ACK feedback.

[0169] exist Figure 12B In this process, the UE sends HARQ-ACK for CW1 via PUCCH / PUSCH for the first antenna group, and sends HARQ-ACK for CW2 via other PUCCH / PUSCH for the second antenna group.

[0170] exist Figure 12C In this context, the UE, for example, transmits HARQ-ACK for CW1 and HARQ-ACK for CW2 via PUCCH / PUSCH for the first antenna group.

[0171] [HARQ-ACK Resources]

[0172] The PUCCH / PUSCH resources used for HARQ-ACK transmission can also be referred to as HARQ-ACK resources. The HARQ-ACK resources used for joint HARQ-ACK feedback can also be equivalent to at least one of the following:

[0173] (a) A HARQ-ACK resource that is notified or set for the UE

[0174] (b) HARQ-ACK resources selected by the UE from the HARQ-ACK resources notified / set to the UE per antenna point / port / group.

[0175] (c) The base station selects and indicates the HARQ-ACK resources to the UE from the HARQ-ACK resources that are notified / set to the UE per antenna point / port / group.

[0176] Regarding (b) above, the UE may also select the HARQ-ACK resource corresponding to the antenna point / port / group with the larger received power / receive quality based on the received power / receive quality of each measured antenna point / port / group.

[0177] Furthermore, regarding (b) above, the UE can also select HARQ-ACK resources based on the information (content) of the transmitted HARQ-ACK bits. For example, the UE can select either the HARQ-ACK resource corresponding to the antenna point / port / group that transmitted the ACK, or the HARQ-ACK resource corresponding to the antenna point / port / group that transmitted the NACK.

[0178] Regarding (c) above, the UE may also select HARQ-ACK resources based on the DCI used for data scheduling. For example, the UE may also utilize the PUCCH resource indicated by a field (e.g., the PUCCH resource indicator field) contained in the DCI format (e.g., DCI format 1_x (x = 0, 1, 2, ...)) for the scheduling PDSCH in the HARQ-ACK transmission for that PDSCH.

[0179] Figure 13A as well as Figure 13B This is a diagram representing an example of a HARQ-ACK resource. Figure 13A Corresponding to (a) above, this indicates the HARQ-ACK resource that is notified / set to the UE. Figure 13B Corresponding to (b) or (c) above, this represents the first HARQ-ACK resource corresponding to the first antenna point / port / group and the second HARQ-ACK resource corresponding to the second antenna point / port / group.

[0180] Furthermore, in this example, the time resources are the same for the first HARQ-ACK resource and the second HARQ-ACK resource, but the time / frequency resources for each resource are not limited to this. In addition, at least one resource of these resources, such as time, frequency, code, sequence, OCC, CS, etc., may be different.

[0181] According to the third embodiment described above, UE processing associated with MIMO transmission using antenna points can be appropriately implemented.

[0182] (Wireless Communication System)

[0183] The structure of a wireless communication system according to one embodiment of this disclosure will be described below. In this wireless communication system, communication is performed using one or a combination of the wireless communication methods according to the above embodiments of this disclosure.

[0184] Figure 14 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the schematic structure of a wireless communication system according to one embodiment. The wireless communication system 1 may also be a system that uses Long Term Evolution (LTE) or 5th generation mobile communication system New Radio (5G NR) as standardized by the Third Generation Partnership Project (3GPP).

[0185] Furthermore, the wireless communication system 1 can also support dual connectivity between multiple radio access technologies (RATs) (Multi-RAT Dual Connectivity (MR-DC)). MR-DC can also include dual connectivity between LTE (Evolved Universal Terrestrial Radio Access (E-UTRA)) and NR (E-UTRA-NR Dual Connectivity (EN-DC)), dual connectivity between NR and LTE (NR-E-UTRA Dual Connectivity (NE-DC)), etc.

[0186] In EN-DC, the LTE (E-UTRA) base station (eNB) is the master node (MN), and the NR base station (gNB) is the secondary node (SN). In NE-DC, the NR base station (gNB) is the MN, and the LTE (E-UTRA) base station (eNB) is the SN.

[0187] Wireless communication system 1 can also support dual connectivity between multiple base stations within the same RAT (e.g., MN and SN are dual connectivity of NR base stations (gNB) (NR-NR Dual Connectivity (NN-DC))).

[0188] The wireless communication system 1 may also include: a base station 11 forming a macro cell C1 with a relatively wide coverage area, and a base station 12 (12a-12c) configured within the macro cell C1 and forming a small cell C2 narrower than the macro cell C1. User terminals 20 may also be located within at least one cell. The configuration and number of each cell and user terminal 20 are not limited to the arrangement shown in the figure. Hereinafter, without distinguishing between base stations 11 and 12, they will be collectively referred to as base station 10.

[0189] User terminal 20 may also connect to at least one of multiple base stations 10. User terminal 20 may also utilize at least one of carrier aggregation (CA) using multiple component carriers (CC) and dual connectivity (DC).

[0190] Each CC can also be included in at least one of the first frequency band (Frequency Range 1 (FR1)) and the second frequency band (Frequency Range 2 (FR2)). Macro cell C1 can also be included in FR1, and small cell C2 can also be included in FR2. For example, FR1 can also be a frequency band below 6 GHz (sub-6 GHz), and FR2 can also be a frequency band above 24 GHz (above-24 GHz). Furthermore, the frequency bands and definitions of FR1 and FR2 are not limited to these; for example, FR1 can also correspond to a frequency band higher than FR2.

[0191] In addition, user terminal 20 can also communicate in each CC using at least one of Time Division Duplex (TDD) and Frequency Division Duplex (FDD).

[0192] Multiple base stations 10 can also be connected via wired (e.g., fiber optic cable based on the Common Public Radio Interface (CPRI), X2 interface, etc.) or wireless (e.g., NR communication). For example, when NR communication between base stations 11 and 12 is used as a backhaul, base station 11, which is equivalent to a host station, can also be referred to as an Integrated Access Backhaul (IAB) donor, and base station 12, which is equivalent to a relay station, can also be referred to as an IAB node.

[0193] Base station 10 may also be connected to core network 30 via other base stations 10 or directly. Core network 30 may include, for example, at least one of Evolved Packet Core (EPC), 5G Core Network (5GCN), Next Generation Core (NGC), etc.

[0194] User terminal 20 can also be a terminal that supports at least one of the following communication methods: LTE, LTE-A, 5G, etc.

[0195] In wireless communication system 1, wireless access methods based on Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM) can also be used. For example, in at least one of the downlink (DL) and uplink (UL) links, Cyclic Prefix OFDM (CP-OFDM), Discrete Fourier Transform Spread OFDM (DFT-s-OFDM), Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access (OFDMA), and Single Carrier Frequency Division Multiple Access (SC-FDMA) can also be used.

[0196] Wireless access methods can also be referred to as waveforms. In addition, in wireless communication system 1, other wireless access methods (e.g., other single-carrier transmission methods, other multi-carrier transmission methods) can also be applied in the wireless access methods of UL and DL.

[0197] As a downlink channel, the wireless communication system 1 can also use downlink shared channels (Physical Downlink Shared Channel (PDSCH)), broadcast channels (Physical Broadcast Channel (PBCH)), downlink control channels (Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH)) and so on, which are shared by each user terminal 20.

[0198] In addition, as uplink channels, the wireless communication system 1 may also use uplink shared channels (Physical Uplink Shared Channel (PUSCH)), uplink control channels (Physical Uplink Control Channel (PUCCH)), random access channels (Physical Random Access Channel (PRACH)) and so on, which are shared by each user terminal 20.

[0199] User data, high-level control information, and System Information Blocks (SIBs) are transmitted via PDSCH. User data and high-level control information can also be transmitted via PUSCH. Furthermore, Master Information Blocks (MIBs) can be transmitted via PBCH.

[0200] Lower-layer control information can also be transmitted via PDCCH. This lower-layer control information may include, for example, downlink control information (DCI), which includes scheduling information for at least one of PDSCH and PUSCH.

[0201] Additionally, the DCI for scheduling PDSCH can also be called DL allocation, DL DCI, etc., and the DCI for scheduling PUSCH can also be called UL authorization, UL DCI, etc. Furthermore, PDSCH can also be replaced with DL data, and PUSCH can also be replaced with UL data.

[0202] In PDCCH detection, a Control Resource Set (CORESET) and a search space can be utilized. A CORESET corresponds to the resources used to search for DCIs. The search space corresponds to the search area and search method for PDCCH candidates. A CORESET can also be associated with one or more search spaces. The UE can also monitor CORESETs associated with a specific search space based on search space settings.

[0203] A search space can also correspond to PDCCH candidates that match one or more aggregation levels. One or more search spaces can also be referred to as a search space set. In addition, the terms "search space", "search space set", "search space setting", "search space set setting", "CORESET", and "CORESET setting" used in this disclosure can be used interchangeably.

[0204] Uplink control information (UCI) can also be transmitted via PUCCH, including at least one of the following: Channel State Information (CSI), delivery confirmation information (e.g., also known as Hybrid Automatic Repeat reQuest ACK knowledgement (HARQ-ACK), ACK / NACK, etc.), and Scheduling Request (SR). Random access preambles used for establishing a connection with the cell can also be transmitted via PRACH.

[0205] Furthermore, in this disclosure, downlink, uplink, etc., may be described without the word "link". Additionally, various channels may be described without the word "physical".

[0206] In wireless communication system 1, synchronization signals (SS) and downlink reference signals (DL-RS) can also be transmitted. As DL-RS, wireless communication system 1 can also transmit cell-specific reference signals (CRS), channel state information reference signals (CSI-RS), demodulation reference signals (DMRS), positioning reference signals (PRS), phase tracking reference signals (PTRS), etc.

[0207] Synchronization signals can be, for example, at least one of a primary synchronization signal (PSS) and a secondary synchronization signal (SSS). A signal block containing SS (PSS, SSS) and PBCH (and DMRS for PBCH) can also be called an SS / PBCH block, SS block (SSB), etc. Furthermore, SS, SSB, etc., can also be called reference signals.

[0208] Furthermore, in the wireless communication system 1, the uplink reference signal (UL-RS) can also transmit measurement reference signals (sounding reference signals (SRS)) and demodulation reference signals (DMRS). Additionally, the DMRS can also be referred to as a user terminal-specific reference signal (UE-specific reference signal).

[0209] (Base station)

[0210] Figure 15This diagram illustrates an example of the structure of a base station according to one embodiment. The base station 10 includes a control unit 110, a transmit / receive unit 120, a transmit / receive antenna 130, and a transmission path interface (transmission line interface) 140. Alternatively, the control unit 110, the transmit / receive unit 120, the transmit / receive antenna 130, and the transmission path interface 140 may each be provided in more than one manner.

[0211] Furthermore, while this example primarily illustrates the functional blocks of the characteristic portions of this embodiment, it is also conceivable that the base station 10 may also possess other functional blocks required for wireless communication. Some of the processing of each unit described below may also be omitted.

[0212] The control unit 110 performs overall control of the base station 10. The control unit 110 can be composed of a controller, control circuit, etc., which are described based on common knowledge in the art to which this disclosure pertains.

[0213] The control unit 110 can also control signal generation and scheduling (e.g., resource allocation, mapping). The control unit 110 can also control transmission, reception, and measurement using the transmit / receive unit 120, transmit / receive antenna 130, and transmission path interface 140. The control unit 110 can also generate data, control information, sequences, etc., to be transmitted as signals and forward them to the transmit / receive unit 120. The control unit 110 can also perform call processing (setting, releasing, etc.) of the communication channel, status management of the base station 10, and management of wireless resources.

[0214] The transmitting / receiving unit 120 may also include a baseband unit 121, a radio frequency (RF) unit 122, and a measurement unit 123. The baseband unit 121 may also include a transmitting processing unit 1211 and a receiving processing unit 1212. The transmitting / receiving unit 120 can be composed of transmitters / receivers, RF circuits, baseband circuits, filters, phase shifters, measurement circuits, transmitting / receiving circuits, etc., as described based on common knowledge in the art to which this disclosure pertains.

[0215] The transmitting and receiving unit 120 can be configured as a single integrated transmitting and receiving unit, or it can be composed of a transmitting unit and a receiving unit. The transmitting unit can also be composed of a transmitting processing unit 1211 and an RF unit 122. The receiving unit can also be composed of a receiving processing unit 1212, an RF unit 122, and a measurement unit 123.

[0216] The transmitting and receiving antenna 130 can be constructed from an antenna, such as an array antenna, as described based on common knowledge in the art to which this disclosure pertains.

[0217] The transmitting / receiving unit 120 can also transmit the aforementioned downlink channel, synchronization signal, downlink reference signal, etc. The transmitting / receiving unit 120 can also receive the aforementioned uplink channel, uplink reference signal, etc.

[0218] The transmitting and receiving unit 120 may also use digital beamforming (e.g., precoding), analog beamforming (e.g., phase rotation), etc., to form at least one of the transmitting beam and the receiving beam.

[0219] The transmitting and receiving unit 120 (transmitting processing unit 1211) may, for example, perform processing at the Packet Data Convergence Protocol (PDCP) layer, Radio Link Control (RLC) layer (e.g., RLC retransmission control), and Medium Access Control (MAC) layer (e.g., HARQ retransmission control) on the data and control information obtained from the control unit 110, and generate a bit string to be transmitted.

[0220] The transmitting and receiving unit 120 (transmitting processing unit 1211) can also perform transmission processing such as channel coding (which may also include error correction coding), modulation, mapping, filter processing, Discrete Fourier Transform (DFT) processing (as needed), Inverse Fast Fourier Transform (IFFT) processing, precoding, and digital-to-analog conversion on the bit string to be transmitted, and output the baseband signal.

[0221] For baseband signals, the transmitting and receiving unit 120 (RF unit 122) can also perform modulation, filtering, amplification, etc., to the wireless frequency band, and transmit the wireless frequency band signals through the transmitting and receiving antenna 130.

[0222] On the other hand, the transmitting and receiving unit 120 (RF unit 122) can also amplify, filter, demodulate baseband signals, etc., for signals in the wireless frequency band that are received by the transmitting and receiving antenna 130.

[0223] For the acquired baseband signal, the transmitting and receiving unit 120 (receiving and processing unit 1212) can also perform receiving and processing such as analog-to-digital conversion, Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) processing, Inverse Discrete Fourier Transform (IDFT) processing (as needed), filter processing, demapping, demodulation, decoding (which may also include error correction decoding), MAC layer processing, RLC layer processing, and PDCP layer processing to acquire user data.

[0224] The transmitting / receiving unit 120 (measurement unit 123) can also perform measurements related to the received signal. For example, the measurement unit 123 can also perform radio resource management (RRM) measurements, channel state information (CSI) measurements, etc., based on the received signal. The measurement unit 123 can also measure received power (e.g., Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP)), received quality (e.g., Reference Signal Received Quality (RSRQ), Signal to Interference plus Noise Ratio (SINR), Signal to Noise Ratio (SNR)), signal strength (e.g., Received Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI)), propagation path information (e.g., CSI), etc. The measurement results can also be output to the control unit 110.

[0225] The transmission path interface 140 can also transmit and receive signals (backhaul signaling) between the device included in the core network 30 and other base stations 10, and can also acquire and transmit user data (user plane data), control plane data, etc. for the user terminal 20.

[0226] In addition, the transmitting unit and receiving unit of the base station 10 in this disclosure can also be configured by at least one of the transmitting / receiving unit 120, the transmitting / receiving antenna 130 and the transmission path interface 140.

[0227] In addition, the control unit 110 can also apply different multiplexing methods to signals transmitted by multiple antennas. The transmit / receive unit 120 can also use more than one antenna group to transmit the signal by multiple antennas.

[0228] (User terminal)

[0229] Figure 16 This diagram illustrates an example of the structure of a user terminal according to one embodiment. The user terminal 20 includes a control unit 210, a transmitting / receiving unit 220, and a transmitting / receiving antenna 230. Alternatively, more than one of each of the control unit 210, the transmitting / receiving unit 220, and the transmitting / receiving antenna 230 may be included.

[0230] Furthermore, while this example primarily illustrates the functional blocks of the characteristic portions of this embodiment, it is also conceivable that the user terminal 20 may also possess other functional blocks required for wireless communication. Some of the processing of each unit described below may also be omitted.

[0231] The control unit 210 performs overall control of the user terminal 20. The control unit 210 can be composed of a controller, control circuit, etc., which are described based on common knowledge in the art to which this disclosure pertains.

[0232] The control unit 210 can also control signal generation, mapping, etc. The control unit 210 can also control transmission, reception, measurement, etc., using the transmission / reception unit 220 and the transmission / reception antenna 230. The control unit 210 can also generate data, control information, sequences, etc., to be transmitted as signals and forward them to the transmission / reception unit 220.

[0233] The transmitting / receiving unit 220 may also include a baseband unit 221, an RF unit 222, and a measurement unit 223. The baseband unit 221 may also include a transmitting processing unit 2211 and a receiving processing unit 2212. The transmitting / receiving unit 220 may be composed of a transmitter / receiver, RF circuit, baseband circuit, filter, phase shifter, measurement circuit, transmitting / receiving circuit, etc., as described based on common knowledge in the art to which this disclosure pertains.

[0234] The transmitting and receiving unit 220 can be configured as a single integrated transmitting and receiving unit, or it can be composed of a transmitting unit and a receiving unit. The transmitting unit can also be composed of a transmitting processing unit 2211 and an RF unit 222. The receiving unit can also be composed of a receiving processing unit 2212, an RF unit 222, and a measurement unit 223.

[0235] The transmitting and receiving antenna 230 can be constructed from an antenna, such as an array antenna, as described based on common knowledge in the art to which this disclosure pertains.

[0236] The transmitting / receiving unit 220 can also receive the downlink channel, synchronization signal, downlink reference signal, etc., mentioned above. The transmitting / receiving unit 220 can also transmit the uplink channel, uplink reference signal, etc., mentioned above.

[0237] The transmitting and receiving unit 220 may also use digital beamforming (e.g., precoding), analog beamforming (e.g., phase rotation), etc., to form at least one of the transmitting beam and the receiving beam.

[0238] The transmitting and receiving unit 220 (transmitting processing unit 2211) may, for example, perform PDCP layer processing, RLC layer processing (e.g., RLC retransmission control), MAC layer processing (e.g., HARQ retransmission control) on the data and control information obtained from the control unit 210, and generate the bit string to be transmitted.

[0239] The transmitting and receiving unit 220 (transmitting processing unit 2211) can also perform channel coding (which may include error correction coding), modulation, mapping, filter processing, DFT processing (as needed), IFFT processing, precoding, digital-to-analog conversion and other transmission processing on the bit string to be transmitted, and output the baseband signal.

[0240] Furthermore, the application of DFT processing can be based on the transform precoding settings. For a specific channel (e.g., PUSCH), if transform precoding is active (enabled), the transmit / receive unit 220 (transmit processing unit 2211) can perform DFT processing as described above for transmitting the channel using the DFT-s-OFDM waveform. Otherwise, the transmit / receive unit 220 (transmit processing unit 2211) can perform the aforementioned transmit processing without performing DFT processing.

[0241] The transmitting and receiving unit 220 (RF unit 222) can also perform modulation, filtering, amplification, etc. on the baseband signal to the wireless frequency band, and transmit the wireless frequency band signal through the transmitting and receiving antenna 230.

[0242] On the other hand, the transmitting and receiving unit 220 (RF unit 222) can also amplify, filter, demodulate baseband signals, etc., for the wireless frequency band signals received by the transmitting and receiving antenna 230.

[0243] The transmitting and receiving unit 220 (receiving and processing unit 2212) can also perform receiving and processing on the acquired baseband signal, such as analog-to-digital conversion, FFT processing, IDFT processing (as needed), filter processing, demapping, demodulation, decoding (which may also include error correction decoding), MAC layer processing, RLC layer processing, and PDCP layer processing, to acquire user data.

[0244] The transmitting / receiving unit 220 (measurement unit 223) can also perform measurements related to the received signal. For example, the measurement unit 223 can also perform RRM measurements, CSI measurements, etc., based on the received signal. The measurement unit 223 can also measure received power (e.g., RSRP), received quality (e.g., RSRQ, SINR, SNR), signal strength (e.g., RSSI), propagation path information (e.g., CSI), etc. The measurement results can also be output to the control unit 210.

[0245] In addition, the transmitting unit and receiving unit of the user terminal 20 in this disclosure can also be configured by at least one of the transmitting / receiving unit 220 and the transmitting / receiving antenna 230.

[0246] In addition, the transmitting and receiving unit 220 can also receive signals transmitted by multiple antennas using more than one antenna group.

[0247] The control unit 210 may also be conceived as controlling the receiving process (e.g., decoding, demodulation) by applying different multiplexing methods (e.g., two or more multiplexing methods such as time multiplexing, frequency multiplexing, spatial multiplexing, code multiplexing, etc.) to the signals transmitted by the multiple antennas.

[0248] The control unit 210 can also be conceived as a method of reusing resources applied to multiple antenna points with consecutive numbers, which is different from the method of reusing resources applied to multiple antenna points / ports with non-consecutive numbers.

[0249] The control unit 210 can also be conceived as a method of reusing resources of multiple antenna points applied to a certain antenna group, which is different from the method of reusing resources of antenna points applied to antenna points of a certain antenna group and the method of reusing resources of antenna points of other antenna groups.

[0250] The control unit 210 can also receive the signal transmitted by multiple antennas using virtual antenna points across multiple antenna groups.

[0251] (Hardware Structure)

[0252] Furthermore, the block diagrams used in the description of the above embodiments illustrate functional units. These functional blocks (structural units) are implemented through any combination of at least one of hardware and software. Moreover, the implementation method of each functional block is not particularly limited. That is, each functional block can be implemented using a single device that is physically or logically combined, or it can be implemented by directly or indirectly (e.g., using wired, wireless, etc.) connecting two or more physically or logically separate devices. A functional block can also be implemented by combining one or more of the aforementioned devices with software.

[0253] Here, the functions include judgment, decision, determination, calculation, calculation, processing, export, investigation, search, confirmation, receiving, sending, output, access, resolution, selection, choosing, establishing, comparison, assumption, expectation, regard as, broadcasting, notifying, communicating, forwarding, configuring, reconfiguring, allocating, mapping, and assigning, but are not limited to these. For example, a functional block (structural unit) that implements the sending function can also be called a transmitting unit, transmitter, etc. As described above, the implementation method is not particularly limited.

[0254] For example, in one embodiment of this disclosure, the base station, user terminal, etc., can also function as a computer for processing the wireless communication method of this disclosure. Figure 17 This diagram illustrates an example of the hardware structure of a base station and a user terminal according to one embodiment. The base station 10 and the user terminal 20 described above can also be physically configured as a computer device including a processor 1001, a memory 1002, a storage device 1003, a communication device 1004, an input device 1005, an output device 1006, a bus 1007, etc.

[0255] Furthermore, in this disclosure, terms such as apparatus, circuit, device, section, and unit are interchangeable. The hardware structure of base station 10 and user terminal 20 can be configured to include one or more of the apparatuses shown in the figures, or it can be configured not to include any of the apparatuses.

[0256] For example, only one processor 1001 is shown, but there can be multiple processors. Furthermore, processing can be performed by one processor, or simultaneously, sequentially, or by two or more processors using other methods. Additionally, processor 1001 can be implemented using more than one chip.

[0257] The functions of the base station 10 and the user terminal 20 are implemented, for example, by reading specific software (programs) into hardware such as the processor 1001 and the memory 1002, so that the processor 1001 performs calculations and controls communication via the communication device 1004, or controls at least one of reading out and writing data in the memory 1002 and the storage device 1003.

[0258] The processor 1001, for example, enables the operating system to operate and control the computer as a whole. The processor 1001 may also be configured as a central processing unit (CPU) that includes interfaces with peripheral devices, control devices, arithmetic devices, registers, etc. For example, at least a portion of the control unit 110 (210), the transmit / receive unit 120 (220), etc., described above may also be implemented by the processor 1001.

[0259] Furthermore, the processor 1001 reads programs (program code), software modules, data, etc., from at least one of the storage 1003 and the communication device 1004 into the memory 1002, and performs various processes accordingly. As a program, a program that causes the computer to perform at least a portion of the operations described in the above embodiments can be used. For example, the control unit 110 (210) can also be implemented by a control program stored in the memory 1002 and operating in the processor 1001; similar implementations can be made for other functional blocks.

[0260] The memory 1002 may also be a computer-readable recording medium, such as being composed of at least one of read-only memory (ROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), random access memory (RAM), or other suitable storage media. The memory 1002 may also be referred to as a register, cache, main memory (main storage device), etc. The memory 1002 is capable of storing executable programs (program code), software modules, etc., for implementing the wireless communication method according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0261] Storage 1003 may also be a computer-readable recording medium, such as at least one of a flexible disc, floppy disk, optical disk (e.g., compact disc ROM, CD-ROM), digital multifunction disk, Blu-ray disc, removable disk, hard disk, smart card, flash memory device (e.g., card, stick, key drive), magnetic stripe, database, server, or other suitable storage medium. Storage 1003 may also be referred to as an auxiliary storage device.

[0262] The communication device 1004 is hardware (transmitting and receiving device) used for communication between computers via at least one of a wired network and a wireless network. It is also referred to as a network device, network controller, network interface card (NIC), communication module, etc. To implement at least one of, for example, Frequency Division Duplex (FDD) and Time Division Duplex (TDD), the communication device 1004 may be configured to include a high-frequency switch, a duplexer, a filter, a frequency synthesizer, etc. For example, the aforementioned transmit / receive unit 120 (220) and transmit / receive antenna 130 (230) may also be implemented by the communication device 1004. The transmit / receive unit 120 (220) may also be implemented physically or logically separately by a transmit unit 120a (220a) and a receive unit 120b (220b).

[0263] Input device 1005 is an input device that receives input from external sources (e.g., keyboard, mouse, microphone, switch, button, sensor, etc.). Output device 1006 is an output device that performs output to external sources (e.g., display, speaker, light-emitting diode (LED) lamp, etc.). Alternatively, input device 1005 and output device 1006 can also be an integrated structure (e.g., touch panel).

[0264] Furthermore, the processor 1001, memory 1002, and other devices are connected via a bus 1007 for communication of information. The bus 1007 can be a single bus or different buses can be used between the devices.

[0265] Furthermore, the base station 10 and the user terminal 20 can also be configured to include hardware such as a microprocessor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a programmable logic device (PLD), or a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), and can be used to implement part or all of the functional blocks. For example, the processor 1001 can also be implemented using at least one of these hardware components.

[0266] (Modified Example)

[0267] Furthermore, the terms described in this disclosure and those necessary for understanding this disclosure may be replaced with terms that have the same or similar meanings. For example, channel, symbol, and signal (signal or signaling) may be used interchangeably. Additionally, a signal may also be a message. A reference signal may also be abbreviated as RS, and may be referred to as pilot, pilot signal, etc., depending on the applied standard. Furthermore, a component carrier (CC) may also be referred to as cell, frequency carrier, carrier frequency, etc.

[0268] A radio frame can also be composed of one or more periods (frames) in the time domain. Each period (frame) that constitutes the radio frame can also be called a subframe. Furthermore, a subframe can also be composed of one or more time slots in the time domain. A subframe can also be a fixed time length (e.g., 1 ms) independent of the parameter set (numerology).

[0269] Here, the parameter set can also refer to communication parameters applied in at least one of the transmission and reception of a signal or channel. For example, the parameter set can also represent at least one of the following: subcarrier spacing (SCS), bandwidth, symbol length, cyclic prefix length, transmission time interval (TTI), number of symbols per TTI, radio frame structure, specific filtering processing performed by the transmitter and receiver in the frequency domain, and specific windowing processing performed by the transmitter and receiver in the time domain.

[0270] In the time domain, a time slot can also be composed of one or more symbols (Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM) symbols, Single Carrier Frequency Division Multiple Access (SC-FDMA) symbols, etc.). Furthermore, a time slot can also be a time unit based on a set of parameters.

[0271] A time slot can also contain multiple mini-time slots. Each mini-time slot can also consist of one or more symbols in the time domain. Furthermore, a mini-time slot can also be called a sub-time slot. A mini-time slot can also consist of fewer symbols than a time slot. A PDSCH (or PUSCH) transmitted in a time unit larger than a mini-time slot can also be called PDSCH (PUSCH) mapping type A. A PDSCH (or PUSCH) transmitted using mini-time slots can also be called PDSCH (PUSCH) mapping type B.

[0272] Radio frames, subframes, time slots, mini-time slots, and symbols all represent time units for transmitting signals. Radio frames, subframes, time slots, mini-time slots, and symbols can also use their respective other names. Furthermore, the time units such as frames, subframes, time slots, mini-time slots, and symbols used in this disclosure can be used interchangeably.

[0273] For example, a subframe can also be called a TTI, multiple consecutive subframes can also be called a TTI, a time slot or a mini-time slot can also be called a TTI. That is to say, at least one of the subframe and TTI can be a subframe in the existing LTE (1ms), a period shorter than 1ms (e.g., 1-13 symbols), or a period longer than 1ms. In addition, the unit representing TTI may not be called a subframe, but a time slot, mini-time slot, etc.

[0274] Here, TTI refers, for example, to the smallest unit of time for scheduling in wireless communication. For instance, in an LTE system, the base station schedules radio resources (frequency bandwidth, transmit power, etc., available to each user terminal) in TTI units. However, the definition of TTI is not limited to this.

[0275] TTI can also be a unit of time for transmitting channel-coded data packets (transmission blocks), code blocks, codewords, etc., and can also be a unit of processing such as scheduling and link adaptation. In addition, when a TTI is given, the actual time interval (e.g., the number of symbols) mapped to the transmission block, code block, codeword, etc. can be shorter than the TTI.

[0276] Furthermore, when a time slot or a mini-time slot is referred to as a TTI, more than one TTI (i.e., more than one time slot or more than one mini-time slot) can also serve as the minimum time unit for scheduling. In addition, the number of time slots (mini-time slots) constituting the minimum time unit of the schedule can also be controlled.

[0277] A Time Interval (TTI) with a duration of 1 ms can also be referred to as a normal TTI (TTI in 3GPP Rel.8-12), a standard TTI, a long TTI, a normal subframe, a standard subframe, a long subframe, a time slot, etc. A TTI shorter than a normal TTI can also be referred to as a shortened TTI, a short TTI, a partial TTI (partial or fractional TTI), a shortened subframe, a short subframe, a mini time slot, a sub-time slot, a time slot, etc.

[0278] In addition, long TTIs (e.g., normal TTIs, subframes, etc.) can be replaced with TTIs with a duration of more than 1 ms, and short TTIs (e.g., shortened TTIs, etc.) can be replaced with TTIs with a duration of less than long TTIs but more than 1 ms.

[0279] A resource block (RB) is a unit of resource allocation in the time and frequency domains. In the frequency domain, it can contain one or more consecutive subcarriers. The number of subcarriers in an RB can be the same regardless of the parameter set, for example, it can be 12. The number of subcarriers in an RB can also be determined based on the parameter set.

[0280] Furthermore, an RB can contain one or more symbols in the time domain, and can also be a time slot, a mini-time slot, a subframe, or the length of a TTI. A TTI, a subframe, etc., can also be composed of one or more resource blocks.

[0281] In addition, one or more RBs can also be referred to as Physical Resource Blocks (PRBs), Sub-Carrier Groups (SCGs), Resource Element Groups (REGs), PRB pairs, RB pairs, etc.

[0282] Furthermore, a resource block can also consist of one or more resource elements (REs). For example, an RE can also be a radio resource area consisting of a subcarrier and a symbol.

[0283] The Bandwidth Part (BWP) (also referred to as partial bandwidth, etc.) can also represent a subset of consecutive common resource blocks (RBs) used for a certain parameter set in a carrier. Here, common RBs can also be determined by indexing RBs based on a common reference point of the carrier. PRBs can also be defined in a BWP and appended with numbers within that BWP.

[0284] A BWP can also include a UL BWP (BWP used by UL) and a DL BWP (BWP used by DL). For a UE, one or more BWPs can also be set within a single carrier.

[0285] At least one of the configured BWPs can be active, and the UE may not intend to transmit or receive specific signals / channels outside of the active BWPs. Furthermore, terms such as "cell" and "carrier" in this disclosure can be replaced with "BWP".

[0286] Furthermore, the structures described above, such as radio frames, subframes, time slots, mini-time slots, and symbols, are merely illustrative. For example, the number of subframes contained in a radio frame, the number of time slots in each subframe or radio frame, the number of mini-time slots contained within a time slot, the number of symbols and RBs contained in a time slot or mini-time slot, the number of subcarriers contained in an RB, and the number of symbols in a TTI, symbol length, and cyclic prefix (CP) length can be varied in many ways.

[0287] Furthermore, the information, parameters, etc., described in this disclosure can be represented by absolute values, relative values ​​with respect to a specific value, or other corresponding information. For example, wireless resources can also be indicated by a specific index.

[0288] In this disclosure, the names used for parameters, etc., are not limiting names in any respect. Furthermore, the mathematical expressions, etc., using these parameters may differ from those explicitly disclosed in this disclosure. Various channels (PUCCH, PDCCH, etc.) and information elements can be identified by any suitable name; therefore, the various names assigned to these various channels and information elements are not limiting names in any respect.

[0289] The information, signals, etc., described in this disclosure can also be represented using any of a variety of different technologies. For example, data, instructions, commands, information, signals, bits, symbols, chips, etc., which may be mentioned throughout the above description, can also be represented by voltage, current, electromagnetic waves, magnetic fields or magnetic particles, light fields or photons, or any combination thereof.

[0290] Furthermore, information, signals, etc., can be output in at least one of the following directions: from higher level (upper layer) to lower level (lower layer), and from lower layer to higher level. Information, signals, etc., can also be input and output via multiple network nodes.

[0291] Input and output information and signals can be stored in a specific location (such as memory) or managed using management tables. Input and output information and signals can be overwritten, updated, or appended. Output information and signals can also be deleted. Input information and signals can also be sent to other devices.

[0292] The notification of information is not limited to the methods / implementations described in this disclosure, and may also be carried out by other methods. For example, the notification of information in this disclosure may also be implemented through physical layer signaling (e.g., downlink control information (DCI), uplink control information (UCI), etc.), higher layer signaling (e.g., radio resource control (RRC) signaling, broadcast information (Master Information Block (MIB), System Information Block (SIB) etc.), medium access control (MAC) signaling), other signals, or combinations thereof.

[0293] In addition, physical layer signaling can also be referred to as Layer 1 / Layer 2 (L1 / L2) control information (L1 / L2 control signals), L1 control information (L1 control signals), etc. Furthermore, RRC signaling can also be referred to as RRC messages, such as RRC connection setup messages, RRC connection reconfiguration messages, etc. Additionally, MAC signaling can also be notified using, for example, the MAC control element (CE).

[0294] Furthermore, notification of specific information (e.g., a notification that “is X”) is not limited to explicit notification, but can also be implicit (e.g., by not providing that specific information, or by providing other information).

[0295] The determination can be made by a value represented by a single bit (0 or 1), by a true or false value (boolean), or by a numerical comparison (e.g., a comparison with a specific value).

[0296] Whether it is called software, firmware, middleware, microcode, hardware description language, or any other name, software should be broadly interpreted as instructions, instruction sets, code, code segments, program code, program, subprogram, software module, application, software application, software package, routine, subroutine, object, executable file, execution thread, process, function, etc.

[0297] Furthermore, software, instructions, and information can also be sent and received via a transmission medium. For example, when software is sent from a website, server, or other remote source using at least one of wired technologies (coaxial cable, fiber optic cable, twisted pair, Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) etc.) and wireless technologies (infrared, microwave, etc.), at least one of these wired and wireless technologies is included within the definition of a transmission medium.

[0298] The terms “system” and “network” as used in this disclosure are used interchangeably. “Network” may also mean devices included in a network (e.g., base stations).

[0299] In this disclosure, the terms "precoding", "precoder", "weight (precoding weight)", "quasi-co-location (QCL)", "transmission configuration indication state (TCI state)", "spatial relation", "spatial domain filter", "transmit power", "phase rotation", "antenna port", "antenna port group", "layer", "number of layers", "rank", "resource", "resource set", "resource group", "beam", "beamwidth", "beam angle", "antenna", "antenna element", and "panel" are used interchangeably.

[0300] In this disclosure, the terms "Base Station (BS)", "Wireless Base Station", "Fixed Station", "NodeB", "eNB (eNodeB)", "gNB (gNodeB)", "Access Point", "Transmission Point (TP)", "Reception Point (RP)", "Transmission / Reception Point (TRP)", "Panel", "Cell", "Sector", "Cell Group", "Carrier", and "Component Carrier" are used interchangeably. There are also instances where the terms macro cell, small cell, femtocell, and picocell are used to refer to a base station.

[0301] A base station can accommodate one or more (e.g., three) cells. When a base station accommodates multiple cells, its coverage area can be divided into several smaller areas, each of which can provide communication services through a base station subsystem (e.g., a small indoor base station (Remote Radio Head (RRH))). Terms such as "cell" or "sector" refer to a portion or all of the coverage area of ​​at least one of the base station and base station subsystem providing communication services within that coverage area.

[0302] In this disclosure, the terms “Mobile Station (MS)”, “user terminal”, “user equipment (UE)”, and “terminal” are used interchangeably.

[0303] In some cases, a mobile station may also be referred to as a subscriber station, mobile unit, subscriber unit, wireless unit, remote unit, mobile device, wireless device, wireless communication device, remote device, mobile subscriber station, access terminal, mobile terminal, wireless terminal, remote terminal, hand set, user agent, mobile client, client, or several other appropriate terms.

[0304] At least one of the base station and the mobile station can also be referred to as a transmitting device, a receiving device, a wireless communication device, etc. Additionally, at least one of the base station and the mobile station can also be a device mounted on a mobile body, the mobile body itself, etc. This mobile body can be a means of transportation (e.g., a vehicle, an airplane, etc.), a mobile body moving in an unmanned manner (e.g., a drone, an autonomous vehicle, etc.), or a robot (humanized or unmanned). Furthermore, at least one of the base station and the mobile station also includes devices that do not necessarily move during communication operations. For example, at least one of the base station and the mobile station can also be an Internet of Things (IoT) device such as a sensor.

[0305] Furthermore, the base station in this disclosure can also be replaced by a user terminal. For example, various methods / implementations of this disclosure can be applied to a structure where the communication between the base station and the user terminal is replaced by communication between multiple user terminals (e.g., it can also be referred to as device-to-device (D2D) or vehicle-to-everything (V2X)). In this case, it can also be configured such that the user terminal 20 has the functions of the base station 10 described above. In addition, expressions such as "uplink" and "downlink" can be replaced with expressions corresponding to inter-terminal communication (e.g., "side"). For example, uplink channel, downlink channel, etc., can also be replaced with side channel.

[0306] Similarly, the user terminal in this disclosure can also be replaced by a base station. In this case, it can also be configured such that the base station 10 has the functions of the user terminal 20 described above.

[0307] In this disclosure, actions are assumed to be performed by the base station, and sometimes, depending on the circumstances, by its upper node. Clearly, in a network containing one or more network nodes, including a base station, various operations performed for communication with a terminal can be performed by the base station, one or more network nodes other than the base station (e.g., considering a Mobility Management Entity (MME), a Serving-Gateway (S-GW), etc., but not limited to these), or combinations thereof.

[0308] The various methods / implementations described in this disclosure can be used individually or in combination, and can be switched as needed during execution. Furthermore, the processing procedures, sequences, flowcharts, etc., of the various methods / implementations described in this disclosure can be rearranged as long as they do not contradict each other. For example, for the method described in this disclosure, the illustrated order is used to indicate various steps, but the order in which they are indicated is not limited.

[0309] The various methods / implementations described in this disclosure can also be applied to Long Term Evolution (LTE), LTE-Advanced (LTE-A), LTE-Beyond (LTE-B), SUPER 3G, IMT-Advanced, 4th generation mobile communication system (4G), 5th generation mobile communication system (5G), 6th generation mobile communication system (6G), xth generation mobile communication system (xG) (xG (x is, for example, an integer or a decimal)), Future Radio Access (FRA), New-Radio Access Technology (RAT), New Radio (NR), New Radio Access (NX), Future generation radio access (FX), Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM (registered trademark))), CDMA2000, Ultra Mobile Broadband (UMB), IEEE This includes 802.11 (Wi-Fi, registered trademark), IEEE 802.16 (WiMAX, registered trademark), IEEE 802.20, Ultra-Wideband (UWB), Bluetooth (registered trademark), systems utilizing other appropriate wireless communication methods, and next-generation systems derived from them. Furthermore, multiple systems can be combined (e.g., LTE or LTE-A, combinations with 5G, etc.) for application.

[0310] As used in this disclosure, the word "based on" does not mean "based on only" unless otherwise specified. In other words, the word "based on" means both "based on only" and "based on at least".

[0311] Any reference to an element using the terms "first," "second," etc., as used in this disclosure does not comprehensively limit the quantity or order of these elements. These terms may be used in this disclosure as a convenient method of distinguishing between two or more elements. Therefore, references to the first and second elements do not imply that only two elements are permitted, or that the first element must take precedence over the second element in some form.

[0312] The term "determining" as used in this disclosure can encompass a wide variety of actions. For example, "determining" can also refer to judging, calculating, computing, processing, deriving, investigating, looking up (e.g., searching in a table, database, or other data structure), and ascertaining.

[0313] In addition, "judgment (decision)" can also refer to receiving (e.g., receiving information), transmitting (e.g., sending information), inputting, outputting, accessing (e.g., accessing data in memory), etc., as situations where "judgment (decision)" is performed.

[0314] Furthermore, "judgment (decision)" can also refer to situations where resolving, selecting, choosing, establishing, or comparing are considered as making a "judgment (decision)". In other words, "judgment (decision)" can also refer to certain actions as situations where a "judgment (decision)" is made.

[0315] In addition, "judgment (decision)" can also be replaced by "assuming", "expecting", "considering", etc.

[0316] The term "maximum transmit power" as used in this disclosure can refer to the maximum value of the transmit power, the nominal maximum transmit power (the nominal UE maximum transmit power), or the rated maximum transmit power (the rated UE maximum transmit power).

[0317] As used in this disclosure, the terms "connected," "coupled," or all variations thereof, refer to all direct or indirect connections or combinations between two or more elements, and can include cases where there is one or more intermediate elements between two mutually "connected" or "coupled" elements. The connections or combinations between elements can be physical, logical, or a combination thereof. For example, "connected" can also be replaced with "access."

[0318] In this disclosure, when two elements are connected, it is possible to use more than one wire, cable, printed electrical connection, etc., and to use electromagnetic energy with wavelengths in the wireless frequency domain, microwave region, light (both visible and invisible) region as several non-limiting and non-inclusive examples, so that they are "connected" or "combined" with each other.

[0319] In this disclosure, the term "A is different from B" can also mean "A and B are different from each other". Additionally, this term can also mean "A and B are each different from C". Terms such as "separate" and "combined" can also be interpreted in the same way as "different".

[0320] When the terms "include," "including," and variations thereof are used in this disclosure, these terms, like the term "comprising," mean inclusive. Furthermore, the term "or" as used in this disclosure does not mean XOR.

[0321] In this disclosure, for example, in cases where articles are added through translation, such as a, an, and the in English, the disclosure may also include cases where the noun following these articles is in a plural form.

[0322] The invention disclosed herein has been described in detail above. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the invention is not limited to the embodiments described herein. The invention can be implemented as modifications and variations without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the claims. Therefore, the description in this disclosure is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to limit the invention in any way.

Claims

1. A terminal having: a reception unit that receives a signal transmitted using multiple transmission reception points (TRPs) by multiple antennas; and a control unit that controls reception processing of the signal transmitted by the multiple antennas based on multiple transmission configuration indication (TCI) states respectively indicated in units of multiple TRPs, the multiple TCI states respectively being unified TCI states.

2. The terminal according to claim 1, wherein the terminal has a transmission unit that transmits delivery confirmation information related to the signal transmitted by the multiple antennas based on the multiple TCI states.

3. A wireless communication method of a terminal having: a step of receiving a signal transmitted using multiple transmission reception points (TRPs) by multiple antennas; and a step of controlling reception processing of the signal transmitted by the multiple antennas based on multiple transmission configuration indication (TCI) states respectively indicated in units of multiple TRPs, the multiple TCI states respectively being unified TCI states.

4. A base station having: a control unit that indicates, to a terminal, multiple transmission configuration indication (TCI) states in units of multiple transmission reception points (TRPs) respectively; and a transmission unit that performs multiple antenna transmission of a signal whose reception processing is controlled in the terminal based on the multiple TCI states using the multiple TRPs, the multiple TCI states respectively being unified TCI states.

5. A system having a terminal and a base station, the terminal being the terminal according to claim 1 or 2, the base station being the base station according to claim 4. ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​

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