Adapting periodic configuration based on spatial relation

Abstract

A method, network node, and wireless device (WD) for adapting periodic configurations based on spatial relations are disclosed. According to one aspect, a method includes configuring a plurality of transmission resources or a plurality of sets of transmission occasions for a radio resource control configured periodic uplink transmission. The method also includes associating each configured uplink transmission received by the network node from the WD with a downlink reference signal provided as a direct or indirect spatial relation reference for the uplink transmission.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to wireless communication, and more particularly to adapting periodic configurations based on spatial relationships. Background Technology

[0002] The 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) has developed and is developing standards for fourth-generation (4G) (also known as Long Term Evolution (LTE)) and fifth-generation (5G) (also known as New Radio (NR)) wireless communication systems. Among other features, such systems provide broadband communication between network nodes (such as base stations) and mobile wireless devices (WDs).

[0003] Mobile broadband systems continue to deliver increasingly higher total service capacity and higher achievable end-user data rates in wireless access networks. In some future scenarios, data rates of up to 10 gigabits per second (Gbps) will be required in localized areas. These demands for very high system capacity and very high end-user data rates can be met by networks with distances between access nodes ranging from a few meters in indoor deployments to approximately 50 meters in outdoor deployments—that is, with an infrastructure density far higher than today's densest networks. The wide transmission bandwidth required to provide data rates of up to 10 Gbps and above may only be available from millimeter-wave spectrum allocations. High-gain beamforming, typically implemented with array antennas, can be used to mitigate the increased path loss at higher frequencies. Such networks are referred to below as NR systems.

[0004] NR supports different groups of use cases and different groups of deployment scenarios. The latter includes low-frequency (hundreds of MHz) and very high-frequency (tens of GHz millimeter wave) deployments. NR Technology Release 15 (Rel-15) defines two operating frequency ranges: FR1 from 410MHz to 7125MHz, and FR2 from 24.250GHz to 52.6GHz. 3GPP RAN is currently working on the NR 3GPP Rel-17 research project to support NR operation from 52.6GHz to 71GHz, including the following considerations:

[0005] • Use existing downlink / uplink (DL / UL) NR waveforms to study the changes required for NR to support operation between 52.6 GHz and 71 GHz;

[0006] a) Study applicable digitization, including subcarrier spacing, channel bandwidth (BW) (including maximum BW), and their impact on the FR2 physical layer design, to support system functionality considering actual radio frequency (RF) impairments [Radio Access Network 1 (RAN1) and Radio Access Network 4 (RAN4)]; and

[0007] b) Identify potential critical issues with the physical signal / channel, if any [RAN1].

[0008] • Study the channel access mechanism, considering potential interference to and from other nodes, assuming beam-based operation to comply with regulatory requirements applicable to unlicensed spectrum between 52.6 GHz and 71 GHz [RAN1].

[0009] Note: If potential interference is identified, interference mitigation solutions may be required as part of the channel access mechanism.

[0010] NR frame structure

[0011] Similar to LTE, NR uses OFDM (Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing) in the downlink (i.e., from the network node, gNB, eNB, or base station to the radio device or WD). Therefore, the basic NR physical resources on the antenna port can be viewed as a time-frequency grid, such as... Figure 1 The diagram shows a resource block (RB) within 14 symbol slots. Each resource block corresponds to 12 consecutive subcarriers in the frequency domain. Resource blocks are numbered in the frequency domain, starting with 0 from the system bandwidth end. During one OFDM symbol interval, each resource element corresponds to one OFDM subcarrier.

[0012] NR supports different subcarrier spacing values. The supported subcarrier spacing values ​​(also known as different parameter sets) are given by Δf = (15 × 2^μ) kHz, where μ ∈ (0, 1, 2, 3, 4). Δf = 15 kHz is the basic (or reference) subcarrier spacing also used in LTE.

[0013] In the time domain, downlink and uplink transmissions in NR are each organized into 1ms subframes of equal length, similar to LTE. Subframes are further divided into multiple time slots of equal duration. The time slot length for a subcarrier spacing Δf = (15 × 2 μ) kHz is 1 / 2 μms. For Δf = 15 kHz, each subframe has only one time slot, and each time slot consists of 14 OFDM symbols.

[0014] Downlink transmission is dynamically scheduled; that is, network nodes transmit Downlink Control Information (DCI) in each time slot. This DCI specifies which Downlink Data (WD) data to transmit and on which resource blocks within the current downlink time slot. In NR, this control information is typically transmitted in the preceding one or two OFDM symbols of each time slot. The control information is carried on the Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH), while the data is carried on the Physical Downlink Shared Channel (PDSCH). The WD first detects and decodes the PDCCH, and if the PDCCH is successfully decoded, the corresponding PDSCH is decoded based on the downlink allocation provided by the control information decoded in the PDCCH.

[0015] In addition to PDCCH and PDSCH, other channels and reference signals are also transmitted in the downlink, including synchronization signal block (SSB), channel state information reference signal (CSI-RS), etc.

[0016] Uplink data transmission carried on the Physical Uplink Shared Channel (PUSCH) can also be dynamically scheduled by network nodes through the transmission of DCI. The DCI (transmitted in the DL area) always indicates the scheduling time offset, so that the PUSCH is transmitted in the time slots of the UL area.

[0017] Periodic and semi-persistent configurations

[0018] In NR, network nodes can be configured with WD using a number of periodic configurations. Periodic configurations can cover UL transmission timing or DL ​​reception timing. Periodic UL transmissions can be configured for one of the following non-limiting purposes:

[0019] 1) Scheduling Request (SR);

[0020] 2) Regular CSI reports;

[0021] 3) Detection Reference Signal (SRS);

[0022] 4) Configured licensed transfers (CG type 1 and CG type 2);

[0023] 5) Random Access Channel (RACH).

[0024] An example of a periodic downlink configuration is the periodic CSI-RS and discontinuous reception (DRX) configuration, which determines when the WD should monitor the PDCCH.

[0025] For these periodic configurations, there is a protocol between the network node and the WD regarding the expected transmission time. The offset (relative to some common time reference, such as system frame number 0) is relative to the Radio Resource Control (RRC) configured with the Downlink Control Information (DCI) enabled for semi-persistent configuration. The period is always configured with RRC.

[0026] Scheduling request

[0027] In NR, a Scheduling Request (SR) is used to request uplink shared channel (UL-SCH) resources for a new transmission. A WD in connected mode can be configured with zero or one or more SR configurations, each corresponding to one or more logical channels. An SR configuration includes a set of Physical Uplink Control Channel (PUCCH) resources, also known as SR resources in the 3GPP standard, used for SRs across different Bandwidth Parts (BWPs) and cells. At most one SR resource is allocated to an SR configuration within the serving cell's BWP. An SR resource configuration includes SR periodicity and time offset parameters and a PUCCH resource ID. The SR periodicity and time offset parameters specify the timing of SR transmissions in the time domain, and the PUCCH resource ID indicates which PUCCH resource in the PUCCH configuration should be used for SR transmissions. Figure 2 An example of a known SR resource configuration is shown.

[0028] Periodic or semi-permanent CSI reports on PUCCH

[0029] The WD can be configured with up to 48 Channel State Information (CSI) report configurations. Each CSI report configuration includes the CSI-ReportPeriodicityAndOffset field and the PUCCH resource ID. The CSI-ReportPeriodicityAndOffset field allows the WD to be configured in conjunction with the periodicity and corresponding slot offset of a specific PUCCH resource.

[0030] Beamforming center transmission in millimeter-wave band NR operation

[0031] As the operating frequency of wireless networks increases and shifts towards millimeter wavelengths, data transmission between nodes suffers from high propagation loss, which is proportional to the square of the carrier frequency. Furthermore, millimeter-wave signals also suffer from high oxygen absorption, high penetration loss, and various blocking problems. On the other hand, for wavelengths smaller than one centimeter, a large number (tens, hundreds, or even thousands) of antenna elements can be packaged into a single antenna array with a compact form factor, which can be widely used in network equipment and user equipment (WD). Such antenna arrays can generate narrow beams with high beamforming gain to compensate for the high path loss in millimeter-wave communication and provide highly directional transmission and reception modes. Therefore, directional transmission and reception are a significant characteristic of mm-band wireless networks. In the case of analog beamforming, where the amplitude / phase of each antenna element is adjusted on the radio frequency (RF), the transceiver can typically only transmit or receive in one direction at a time, or if the WD is equipped with two or more antenna arrays, it can only transmit or receive in several directions at any given time. This contrasts with digital or hybrid analog-digital beamforming, in which phase weights are applied to the baseband, allowing for different beam directions in different frequency subbands.

[0032] Spatial Relationships of PUCCH

[0033] NR 3GPP Rel-15 introduces the concept of spatial relationships for multiple signals and channels. Specifically, for PUCCH, the spatial relationship is configured by the parameter PUCCH-SpatialRelationInfo. This is used to inform the WD how to tune its transmitter antenna array to transmit the PUCCH. For each PUCCH resource, the parameter PUCCH-SpatialRelationInfo provides the spatial relationship with another signal. Roughly speaking, this tells the WD that it should beamform the PUCCH in the same way it receives or transmits other signals. The other signal can be a Synchronization Signal / Physical Broadcast Channel (SS / PBCH) block, CSI-RS, or SRS, as defined in 3GPP TR 38.213.

[0034] - If PUCCH-SpatialRelationInfo provides ssb-Index, then WD uses the same spatial domain filter as the received SS / PBCH block, and utilizes the index provided by ssb-Index for the same serving cell to transmit PUCCH, or if servingCellId is provided, for the serving cell indicated by servingCellId.

[0035] - Otherwise; if PUCCH-SpatialRelationInfo provides csi-RS-Index, then WD uses the same spatial domain filter as the received CSI-RS, and utilizes the resource index provided by csi-RS-Index for the same serving cell to transmit PUCCH, or if servingCellId is provided, for the serving cell indicated by servingCellId.

[0036] - Otherwise; PUCCH-SpatialRelationInfo provides srs, WD uses the same spatial domain filter as the transmitted SRS, utilizes the resource index provided by resource for the same serving cell and / or active UL BWP to transmit PUCCH, or if servingCellId and / or uplinkBWP are provided, for the serving cell indicated by servingCellId and / or the UL BWP indicated by uplinkBWP.

[0037] After configuring the WD with a list of spatial relationships, the network node enables one of the spatial relationships in the list using a Media Access Control (MAC) control element (MACCE). This update is typically made in response to the WD, which has reported a stronger received power for another reference signal (SSB, CSI-RS), or the network node has indicated that the other reference signal is a better reference signal (SRS) than the reference signal associated with the current spatial relationship. Therefore, as the WD moves around the cell, it provides a CSI report to the network node, based on which the network node updates the currently active spatial relationships.

[0038] Enhanced PUCCH spatial relationship enable / disable MAC CE was introduced in 3GPP Rel-16. This allows network nodes to update the spatial relationships of multiple PUCCH resources. Accordingly, the space of the spatial relationship information ID has been expanded from 8 to 64.

[0039] Using the configuration-authorized PUSCH space relationship

[0040] Since 3GPP Rel-15, NR supports two types of Configuration Grant (CG) UL transport schemes, referred to in the NR standard as CG Type 1 and CG Type 2. The main difference between these two types of CG transport is that for CG Type 1, uplink grant is provided and automatically enabled by RRC configuration, while in the case of CG Type 2, uplink grant is provided and enabled via L1 signaling (i.e., UL DCI, whose Cyclic Redundancy Check (CRC) is scrambled with a Cell-Specific Radio Network Temporary Identifier (CS-RNTI)). In both cases, the spatial relationship for PUSCH transport with configuration grant is indicated by the uplink grant, which is provided by either RRC configuration or UL DCI. The uplink grant includes an srs-ResourceIndicator field, which points to one of the SRS resources in the SRS resource configuration, which can in turn be configured with a spatial relationship with a DL reference signal (SSB or CSI-RS) or another SRS resource.

[0041] Using the SRS resource indicator and RRC SRS resource configuration in the uplink grant, a PUSCH with a configuration grant should transmit with the same precoder or beamforming weight as the precoder or beamforming weight used to transmit the reference SRS.

[0042] Beamforming holds promise for widespread application in mm-band NR operations, for both transmission and reception. For UL transmissions, both the WD (Driver Controller) and network nodes need to establish and understand spatial relationships before transmission can occur within the UL. Spatial relationships are defined between UL channels / reference signals (PUSCH, PUCCH, SRS) and DL reference signals (CSI-RS, SS / PBCH blocks) or another UL reference signal (SRS). If UL channel / signal A is spatially correlated with reference signal B, this means the WD should beamform A in the same way as it would beam forward B.

[0043] By establishing spatial relationships, the WD understands in which direction to beamform its transmitted signals toward the target network node, and the network node also understands how to tune its receive (RX) beam toward the WD. Several issues concerning UL beamforming in scenarios involving periodic UL transmissions are identified below, such as scheduling requests, UL CG (Type 1 or Type 2), SRS transmissions, and periodic CSI reports.

[0044] First, in periodic transmission scenarios initiated by the WD, the network node (e.g., gNB) may not know which direction the WD will transmit from. Therefore, the network node may fail to properly tune its RX beam toward the WD. When this beam misalignment occurs, the probability of the network node not hearing the UL transmission can be very high. Consequently, the UL transmission suffers from low reliability or high transmission delay (due to excessive retransmissions).

[0045] Second, network nodes with simulated beamforming capabilities can only listen to UL transmissions in one direction (per antenna panel) at a time. To address this, network nodes can periodically scan all beams in the cell to perform periodic UL transmissions at relevant transmission times. In this case, UL transmission delay is caused not only by the periodicity configured for the WD but also by the periodicity of beam scanning within the network node. For example, in a cell with a large number of narrow beams, a network node may require many time slots to perform beam scanning of the entire cell for SR detection. Statistically, SR delay can become excessively high. This can be problematic for some devices or applications with stringent latency requirements. Furthermore, even with this method, there is no guarantee that the network node will hear transmissions initiated by the WD, as the WD may not be aware of the network node's beam scanning pattern.

[0046] Third, periodic UL transmission resources for multiple WDs can be configured in the same OFDM symbol through frequency or code multiplexing to improve resource efficiency. Network nodes with analog beamforming capabilities should only multiplex periodic UL transmission resources for WDs located in the same beam coverage area at the same time, so that network nodes can receive periodic UL transmissions from WDs using the same RX beam. When WDs move around the cell across different beam coverage areas, network nodes need to frequently reconfigure periodic UL transmission resources for WDs via dedicated RRC signaling to ensure that only WDs in the coverage area of ​​a specific RX beam are multiplexed at the same time. This can lead to excessive signaling overhead. For some types of periodic UL transmissions, the NR standard allows network nodes to update transmission direction information (spatial relationships) more frequently than RRC reconfiguration using MAC CE or DCI. However, some other periodic configuration parameters (such as the time offset that determines which time a WD should use for UL transmission, and the frequency and code allocation that specifies resource multiplexing across multiple WDs) are typically configured by RRC and therefore cannot be changed very frequently.

[0047] Periodic reconfiguration of uplink transmission resources can be considered part of the intra-cell handover process, where the WD in the connection mode is explicitly or implicitly indicated to switch from one beam coverage area to another within the same cell. In the current arrangement, this process involves excessive RRC-level signaling. Summary of the Invention

[0048] There is a need for a way to allow frequent, low-overhead updates to which frequency allocations, code allocations, timing, and spatial relationships the WD should use for reception and / or transmission based on transmit or receive direction (spatial) information. Some embodiments advantageously provide methods, network nodes, and wireless devices for adapting periodic configurations based on spatial relationships.

[0049] Enhancements to the arrangement of periodic or semi-persistent uplink transmissions are disclosed. This arrangement allows for efficient updating of which periodic transmission resources and opportunities the WD should use based on which spatial relationships are configured for UL transmissions. This arrangement ensures that the WD transmits on a specific beam only during times when network nodes are listening in the opposite direction to the WD transmission.

[0050] The solution described in this invention prevents network nodes from missing the detection of configured uplink transmissions due to beam mismatch. Furthermore, it avoids frequent RRC reconfigurations of periodic uplink transmission resources (e.g., SR, CG Type 1, and CSI). Compared to known arrangements, the described solution also provides flexible resource scheduling and more efficient spatial scanning for configured uplink transmissions.

[0051] According to one aspect, a network node configured to communicate with a wireless device (WD) includes a radio interface and / or processing circuitry configured to configure multiple transmission resources or multiple sets of transmission opportunities for periodic uplink transmissions configured by radio resource control. The network node is also configured to associate each configured uplink transmission received by the network node from the WD with a downlink reference signal, the downlink reference signal being provided as a direct or indirect spatial relational reference for the uplink transmission.

[0052] According to this aspect, in some embodiments, the processing circuitry and / or radio interface also signal the association to the WD. In some embodiments, the processing circuitry is further configured to configure time-domain parameters for periodic uplink transmissions so that all configured uplink transmissions occur within a specific time window. In some embodiments, the processing circuitry is further configured to select one or more of a set of periodic uplink transmission resources or a set of transmission timings. In some embodiments, the processing circuitry is further configured to periodically update the spatial relationship reference.

[0053] According to another aspect, a method implemented in a network node includes configuring multiple transmission resources or multiple sets of transmission opportunities for periodic uplink transmissions configured by radio resource control, and associating each configured uplink transmission received by the network node from the WD with a downlink reference signal, which is provided as a direct or indirect spatial relation reference for the uplink transmission.

[0054] Accordingly, in some embodiments, the method further includes signaling the association to the WD. In some embodiments, the method further includes configuring time-domain parameters for periodic uplink transmissions so that all configured uplink transmissions occur within a specific time window. In some embodiments, the method further includes selecting one or more of a set of periodic uplink transmission resources or a set of transmission timings. In some embodiments, the method further includes periodically updating the spatial relationship reference.

[0055] According to another aspect, the wireless device (WD) is configured to communicate with network nodes. The WD includes a radio interface and / or processing circuitry configured to: measure downlink signal quality; and based on that measurement, select one or more configured resources, or periodicity and offset, or timing bitmaps, associated with a downlink reference signal.

[0056] According to this aspect, the selection includes: selecting resources configured to cause the measured signal quality to exceed a threshold, or periodicity and offset, or timing bitmap.

[0057] According to another aspect, a method implemented in a wireless device (WD) includes: measuring downlink signal quality; and based on the measurement, selecting one or more configured resources, or periodicity and offset, or timing bitmaps associated with a downlink reference signal.

[0058] According to this aspect, the selection includes: selecting resources configured to cause the measured signal quality to exceed a threshold, or periodicity and offset, or timing bitmap.

[0059] According to another aspect, a network node configured to communicate with a WD is provided. The network node includes processing circuitry configured to configure multiple transmission resources or multiple sets of transmission opportunities for use by the WD in periodic uplink transmissions configured by Radio Resource Control (RRC). The processing circuitry is also configured to determine which of the configured multiple transmission resources or multiple sets of transmission opportunities the WD uses. The network node also includes a radio interface configured to receive transmissions from the WD in at least one of the determined multiple transmission resources or multiple sets of transmission opportunities.

[0060] According to this aspect, the processing circuitry is also configured to enable or disable one or more of a plurality of transmission resources or sets of transmission opportunities configured for RRC by using explicit signaling. In some embodiments, the explicit signaling is a Media Access Control (MAC) Control Element (CE) or Downlink Control Information (DCI). In some embodiments, transmissions received from a WD are associated with a downlink reference signal, which is a direct or indirect spatial relation reference for the received periodic uplink transmissions configured for RRC. In some embodiments, the radio interface is also configured to receive periodic uplink transmissions configured for RRC from multiple WDs using the same beamforming filter. In some embodiments, the processing circuitry is also configured to configure time-domain parameters for the periodic uplink transmissions configured for RRC via the radio interface so that all periodic uplink transmissions configured for RRC from a group of WDs within the coverage area of ​​the same beam occur within the same time window. In some embodiments, the spatial relation reference for the periodic uplink transmissions configured for RRC is an uplink or downlink reference signal associated with each configured uplink transmission resource or each set of transmission opportunities among the plurality of transmission resources. In some embodiments, the processing circuitry is further configured to configure multiple periodic uplink transmission resources for uplink transmission in the bandwidth portion of the serving cell for WD. In some embodiments, the processing circuitry is further configured to associate scheduling request configuration with one or more scheduling request resources in the bandwidth portion of the serving cell. In some embodiments, the processing circuitry is further configured to configure multiple PUCCH resources for Channel State Information (CSI) report configuration in the bandwidth portion of the serving cell.

[0061] According to another aspect, a method is provided in a network node configured to communicate with a WD. The method includes configuring multiple transmission resources or multiple sets of transmission opportunities for the WD to use on periodic uplink transmissions configured by Radio Resource Control (RRC). The method also includes determining which configured transmission resources or multiple sets of transmission opportunities the WD uses. The method further includes receiving transmissions from the WD in at least one of the determined multiple transmission resources or multiple sets of transmission opportunities.

[0062] According to this aspect, in some embodiments, the method further includes enabling or disabling one or more of a plurality of transmission resources or a plurality of transmission timings configured by using explicit signaling. In some embodiments, the explicit signaling is a Media Access Control (MAC) Control Element (CE) or Downlink Control Information (DCI). In some embodiments, transmissions received from a WD are associated with a downlink reference signal, which is a direct or indirect spatial relation reference for the received RRC-configured periodic uplink transmissions. In some embodiments, the method includes receiving RRC-configured periodic uplink transmissions from a plurality of WDs using the same beamforming filter. In some embodiments, the method further includes configuring time-domain parameters for RRC-configured periodic uplink transmissions such that all RRC-configured periodic uplink transmissions of a group of WDs within the coverage area of ​​the same beam occur within the same time window. In some embodiments, the spatial relation reference for RRC-configured periodic uplink transmissions is an uplink or downlink reference signal associated with each configured uplink transmission resource or each of the plurality of transmission timings. In some embodiments, the method further includes configuring a plurality of periodic uplink transmission resources for uplink transmissions in a bandwidth portion of the serving cell for the WDs. In some embodiments, the method further includes associating a scheduling request configuration with one or more scheduling request resources in the bandwidth portion of the serving cell. In some embodiments, the method further includes configuring multiple PUCCH resources in the bandwidth portion of the serving cell for Channel State Information (CSI) reporting configuration.

[0063] According to another aspect, a wireless device (WD) configured to communicate with a network node is provided. The wireless device includes a radio interface configured to receive configurations of a plurality of periodic uplink transmission resources via at least one Radio Resource Control (RRC) message. The WD also includes processing circuitry configured to enable or disable a subset of the plurality of periodic uplink transmission resources. The radio interface is configured to transmit uplink transmissions on one or more enabled periodic uplink transmission resources.

[0064] According to this aspect, in some embodiments, a subset of multiple periodic uplink transmission resources to be enabled or disabled is selected based on signals received from network nodes. In some embodiments, the signals include Media Access Control (MAC) control elements (CE), Downlink Control Information (DCI) messages, or RRC messages. In some embodiments, the enabled subset of multiple periodic uplink transmission resources is autonomously selected by the WD. In some embodiments, the radio interface is further configured to: receive a first message associating a spatial relationship between each of the multiple periodic uplink transmission resources with a downlink or uplink reference signal, and transmit a second message on one or more enabled periodic UL transmission resources, including transmission on each UL transmission resource associated with a valid spatial relationship. In some embodiments, the downlink or uplink reference signal is a Synchronization Signal / Physical Broadcast Channel (SS / PBCH), a Channel State Information Reference Signal (CSI-RS) resource, or a Probe Reference Signal (SRS) resource. In some embodiments, deactivation based on signals received from network nodes includes receiving an indicator of an invalid spatial relationship. In some embodiments, processing circuitry is further configured to determine a subset of multiple periodic uplink transmission resources based on measurements of multiple downlink signals. In some embodiments, the processing circuitry is further configured to determine a signal quality metric for a downlink reference signal, which is a direct or indirect spatial relationship reference for periodic uplink transmissions configured for Radio Resource Control (RRC). In some embodiments, the radio interface is further configured to receive an RRC message indicating zero or more periodic uplink transmission resources in a bandwidth portion of the serving cell including the WD, used for shared channel transmissions or uplink control information (UCI) transmissions. In some embodiments, the processing circuitry is further configured to enable or disable a subset of a plurality of periodic uplink transmission resources according to a bitmap, where each bit of the bitmap indicates the enable or disable of a different one of the periodic uplink transmission resources. In some embodiments, the periodic uplink transmission resources among the plurality of periodic uplink transmission resources are scheduling request resources for Channel State Information (CSI) reporting, configured grant resources, or physical uplink control channel resources. In some embodiments, a subset of the plurality of periodic uplink transmission resources is determined based on measurements of a plurality of downlink signals.

[0065] According to another aspect, a method is provided in a wireless device (WD) configured to communicate with a network node. The method includes receiving configuration of a plurality of periodic uplink transmission resources via at least one Radio Resource Control (RRC) message. The method also includes enabling or disabling a subset of the plurality of periodic uplink transmission resources. The method further includes transmitting uplink transmissions on one or more enabled periodic uplink transmission resources. In some embodiments, a subset of the plurality of periodic uplink transmission resources to be enabled or disabled is selected based on signals received from the network node. In some embodiments, the signals include a Media Access Control (MAC) control element (CE), a Downlink Control Information (DCI) message, or an RRC message. In some embodiments, the enabled subset of the plurality of periodic uplink transmission resources is selected autonomously by the WD. In some embodiments, the method further includes receiving a first message associating a spatial relationship between each of the plurality of periodic uplink transmission resources with a downlink or uplink reference signal, and transmitting a second message on one or more enabled periodic UL transmission resources, including transmission on each UL transmission resource associated with a valid spatial relationship. In some embodiments, the downlink or uplink reference signal is a synchronization signal / physical broadcast channel (SS / PBCH), a channel state information reference signal (CSI-RS) resource, or a probe reference signal (SRS) resource. In some embodiments, deactivation based on signals received from a network node includes receiving an indicator of an invalid spatial relationship. In some embodiments, the method further includes determining a subset of multiple periodic uplink transmission resources based on measurements of multiple downlink signals. In some embodiments, the method further includes determining a signal quality metric for a downlink reference signal that is a direct or indirect spatial relationship reference for periodic uplink transmissions configured for Radio Resource Control (RRC). In some embodiments, the method further includes receiving an RRC message indicating zero or more periodic uplink transmission resources in a bandwidth portion of a serving cell including the WD for shared channel transmissions or uplink control information (UCI) transmissions. In some embodiments, the method further includes enabling or deactivating a subset of multiple periodic uplink transmission resources according to a bitmap, each bit of the bitmap indicating the enabling or deactivation of a different one of the periodic uplink transmission resources. In some embodiments, the periodic uplink transmission resources among the plurality of periodic uplink transmission resources are scheduling request resources for Channel State Information (CSI) reporting, configured grant resources, or physical uplink control channel resources. In some embodiments, a subset of the plurality of periodic uplink transmission resources is determined based on measurements of a plurality of downlink signals. Attached Figure Description

[0066] A more complete understanding of this embodiment and its accompanying advantages and features will be more readily apparent when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, by referring to the following specific embodiments, wherein:

[0067] Figure 1 It is a graph of time-frequency resources;

[0068] Figure 2 An example of an SR resource is shown;

[0069] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example network architecture of a communication system connected to a host computer via an intermediate network according to the principles of the present invention;

[0070] Figure 4 This is a block diagram of a host computer communicating with a wireless device via a network node through at least a partial wireless connection, according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0071] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating an example method for executing a client application at a wireless device, implemented in a communication system including a host computer, a network node, and a wireless device, according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0072] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating an example method for receiving user data at a wireless device, implemented in a communication system including a host computer, a network node, and a wireless device, according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0073] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating an example method for receiving user data from a wireless device at a host computer, implemented in a communication system including a host computer, a network node, and a wireless device, according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0074] Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating an example method for receiving user data at a host computer, implemented in a communication system including a host computer, a network node, and a wireless device, according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0075] Figure 9 This is a flowchart of an example process for adjusting periodic configuration based on spatial relationships in a network node according to some embodiments of the present invention;

[0076] Figure 10 This is a flowchart of an example process for adapting periodic configuration based on spatial relationships in a wireless device according to some embodiments of the present invention;

[0077] Figure 11 This is a flowchart of an example process in a network node constructed based on the principles disclosed in this article;

[0078] Figure 12 This is a flowchart of an example process in a wireless device built based on the principles described in this article;

[0079] Figure 13 This is an example of the first MAC CE configuration;

[0080] Figure 14 This is an example of a second MAC CE configuration;

[0081] Figure 15 This is an example of a third MAC CE resource configuration; and

[0082] Figure 16 This demonstrates WD's autonomous SR resource switching. Detailed Implementation

[0083] Before describing the exemplary embodiments in detail, it should be noted that the embodiments primarily exist in combinations of apparatus components and processing steps related to adapting periodic configurations based on spatial relationships. Therefore, in the accompanying drawings, components are designated with conventional symbols where appropriate, and only those specific details relevant to understanding the embodiments are shown so as not to obscure the invention with details obvious to those skilled in the art who will benefit from the description herein. Throughout the specification, the same numbers refer to the same elements.

[0084] As used herein, relational terms such as “first” and “second,” “top” and “bottom” may be used only to distinguish one entity or element from another, and do not necessarily require or imply any physical or logical relationship or order between these entities or elements. The terminology used herein is solely for describing particular embodiments and not for limiting the concepts described herein. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will also be understood that the terms “comprising” and / or “including,” as used herein, specify the presence of the stated features, requirements, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, requirements, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or combinations thereof.

[0085] In the embodiments described herein, connection terms such as "communicating with" can be used to refer to electrical or data communication, which can be achieved through, for example, physical contact, induction, electromagnetic radiation, radio signals, infrared signals, or optical signals. Those skilled in the art will understand that multiple components can interoperate, and modifications and variations may enable electrical and data communication.

[0086] In some embodiments described herein, the terms “coupled,” “connected,” etc., may be used herein to indicate a connection, but not necessarily a direct connection, and may include wired and / or wireless connections.

[0087] As used herein, the term "network node" can refer to any type of network node included in a radio network, which may also include base stations (BS), radio base stations, base transceiver stations (BTS), base station controllers (BSC), radio network controllers (RNC), g node Bs (gNB), evolved node Bs (eNB or eNodeB), node Bs, multi-standard radio (MSR) radio nodes such as MSR BSs, multi-cell / multicast coordination entities (MCEs), integrated access and backhaul (IAB) nodes, relay nodes, donor nodes for control relays, radio access points (APs), transmission points, transmission nodes, remote radio units (RRUs), remote radio heads (RRHs), core network nodes (e.g., mobility management entities (MMEs), ad hoc network (SON) nodes, coordination nodes, location nodes, MDT nodes, etc.), external nodes (e.g., third-party nodes, nodes outside the current network), nodes in distributed antenna systems (DASs), spectrum access systems (SAS) nodes, element management systems (EMSs), etc. Network nodes may also include test equipment. The term “radio node” as used in this article can also be used to refer to a wireless device (WD), such as a wireless device (WD) or a radio network node.

[0088] In some embodiments, the non-limiting terms wireless device (WD) and user equipment (UE) are used interchangeably. WD as used herein can be any type of wireless device capable of communicating with a network node or another WD via radio signals, such as a wireless device (WD). A WD can also be a radio communication device, a target device, a device-to-device (D2D) WD, a machine-type WD or a WD capable of machine-to-machine communication (M2M), a low-cost and / or low-complexity WD, a sensor equipped with a WD, a tablet computer, a mobile terminal, a smartphone, a device embedded in a laptop computer (LEE), a laptop computer device (LME), a USB dongle, a client device (CPE), an Internet of Things (IoT) device, or a narrowband IoT (NB-IoT) device, etc.

[0089] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the generic term "radio network node" is used. It can be any type of radio network node, which may include any of the following: base station, radio base station, transceiver base station, base station controller, network controller, RNC, evolved Node B (eNB), Node B, gNB, multi-cell / multicast coordination entity (MCE), IAB node, relay node, access point, radio access point, remote radio unit (RRU), and remote radio headend (RRH).

[0090] Note that while terms from a particular wireless system, such as, for example, 3GPP LTE and / or New Radio (NR), may be used in this invention, this should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention to the aforementioned systems. Other wireless systems (including, but not limited to, Wideband Code Division Multiple Access (WCDMA), Microwave Access Global Interoperability (WiMax), Ultra Mobile Broadband (UMB), and Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM)) may also benefit from utilizing the ideas covered by this invention.

[0091] It should also be noted that the functions performed by wireless devices or network nodes as described herein can be distributed across multiple wireless devices and / or network nodes. In other words, the functions of the network nodes and wireless devices described herein are not expected to be limited to the performance of a single physical device; in fact, they can be distributed across several physical devices.

[0092] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) shall have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains. It should also be understood that the terms used herein should be interpreted as having the same meaning as they have in the context of this specification and the relevant field, and should not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless explicitly defined herein.

[0093] As used in this article, periodic uplink transmission resources refer to the PUCCH or PUSCH resources configured in the RRC of the serving cell's BWP, which appear periodically in time, have a specific periodicity, and have a time offset from a specific reference point.

[0094] Some embodiments provide for adapting periodic configurations based on spatial relationships. According to one aspect, a method includes configuring multiple transmission resources or multiple sets of transmission timings for periodic uplink transmissions configured by radio resource control. The method also includes associating each configured uplink transmission received by a network node from a WD with a downlink reference signal, which is provided as a direct or indirect spatial relationship reference for the uplink transmission.

[0095] Referring again to the accompanying drawings, in which the same elements are denoted by the same reference numerals, Figure 3The diagram illustrates a communication system 10 according to an embodiment, such as a 3GPP-type cellular network that can support standards such as LTE and / or NR (5G), comprising an access network 12 (such as a radio access network) and a core network 14. The access network 12 includes multiple network nodes 16a, 16b, 16c (collectively referred to as network nodes 16), such as NBs, eNBs, gNBs, or other types of wireless access points, each defining a corresponding coverage area 18a, 18b, 18c (collectively referred to as coverage area 18). Each network node 16a, 16b, 16c can be connected to the core network 14 via a wired or wireless connection 20. A first wireless device (WD) 22a located in coverage area 18a is configured to wirelessly connect to or be paged by a corresponding network node 16a. A second WD 22b in coverage area 18b can wirelessly connect to a corresponding network node 16b. Although multiple WDs 22a, 22b (collectively referred to as wireless devices 22) are shown in this example, the disclosed embodiments are equally applicable to situations where a single WD is in the coverage area or a single WD is connected to a corresponding network node 16. Note that although only two WDs 22 and three network nodes 16 are shown for convenience, the communication system may include more WDs 22 and network nodes 16.

[0096] Furthermore, WD 22 is expected to be able to communicate simultaneously with more than one network node 16 and more than one type of network node 16, and / or be configured to communicate with each network node separately. For example, WD 22 may have dual connectivity with LTE-enabled network nodes 16 and the same or different network nodes 16 that support NR. For example, WD 22 may communicate with an eNB for LTE / E-UTRAN and a gNB for NR / NG-RAN.

[0097] The communication system 10 itself can be connected to a host computer 24, which may be implemented in the hardware and / or software of a standalone server, a cloud-implemented server, a distributed server, or as a processing resource in a server cluster. The host computer 24 may be owned or controlled by a service provider, or may be operated by the service provider or on behalf of the service provider. Connections 26, 28 between the communication system 10 and the host computer 24 may extend directly from the core network 14 to the host computer 24, or may extend via an optional intermediate network 30. The intermediate network 30 may be a combination of one or more of a public network, a private network, or a hosted network. If applicable, the intermediate network 30 may be a backbone network or the Internet. In some embodiments, the intermediate network 30 may include two or more subnetworks (not shown).

[0098] Figure 3The communication system as a whole implements a connection between one of the connected WDs 22a and 22b and the host computer 24. This connection can be described as an over-the-top (OTT) connection. The host computer 24 and the connected WDs 22a and 22b are configured to transmit data and / or signaling via the OTT connection using access network 12, core network 14, any intermediate network 30, and possibly other infrastructure (not shown) as intermediaries. The OTT connection can be transparent in the sense that at least some of the participating communication devices traversed by the OTT connection are unaware of the routes of the uplink and downlink communications. For example, network node 16 may not be informed, or need not be informed, of the past routes of input downlink communications originating from host computer 24 to be forwarded (e.g., handed over) to connected WD 22a. Similarly, network node 16 does not need to know the future routes of output uplink communications originating from WD 22a toward host computer 24.

[0099] Network node 16 is configured to include a configuration unit 32, which is configured to configure multiple transmission resources or multiple sets of transmission timings for periodic uplink transmissions configured for radio resource control. Wireless device 22 is configured to include a selection unit 34, which is configured to select one or more configured resources, or periodicity and offset, or timing bitmaps associated with a downlink reference signal.

[0100] According to the embodiments, reference will now be made to Figure 4 This section describes an example implementation of the WD 22, network node 16, and host computer 24 discussed in the preceding paragraphs. In the communication system 10, the host computer 24 includes hardware (HW) 38, which includes a communication interface 40 configured to establish and maintain wired or wireless connections with different communication devices of the communication system 10. The host computer 24 also includes processing circuitry 42, which may have storage and / or processing capabilities. Processing circuitry 42 may include a processor 44 and memory 46. Specifically, in addition to, or in lieu of, a processor (such as a central processing unit) and memory, processing circuitry 42 may include integrated circuits for processing and / or control, such as one or more processors and / or processor cores and / or FPGAs (Field-Programmable Gate Arrays) and / or ASICs (Application-Specific Integrated Circuits), adapted to execute instructions. The processor 44 can be configured to access (e.g., write to and / or read from) memory 46, which may include any type of volatile and / or non-volatile memory, such as cache and / or buffer memory and / or RAM (random access memory) and / or ROM (read-only memory) and / or optical memory and / or EPROM (erasable programmable read-only memory).

[0101] Processing circuitry 42 may be configured to control any methods and / or processes described herein, and / or to cause such methods and / or processes to be executed by, for example, host computer 24. Processor 44 corresponds to one or more processors 44 for performing the functions of host computer 24 described herein. Host computer 24 includes memory 46 configured to store data, programming software code, and / or other information described herein. In some embodiments, software 48 and / or host application 50 may include instructions that, when executed by processor 44 and / or processing circuitry 42, cause processor 44 and / or processing circuitry 42 to perform the processes described herein with respect to host computer 24. The instructions may be software associated with host computer 24.

[0102] Software 48 can be executed by processing circuitry 42. Software 48 includes a host application 50. Host application 50 can operate to provide services to remote users, such as WD 22 connected via an OTT connection 52 terminating between WD 22 and host computer 24. In providing services to remote users, host application 50 can provide user data transmitted using OTT connection 52. “User data” can be data and information described herein for implementing the functions described. In one embodiment, host computer 24 can be configured to provide control and functionality to a service provider and can be operated by or on behalf of the service provider. Processing circuitry 42 of host computer 24 enables host computer 24 to observe, monitor, control, transmit to and / or receive from network node 16 and / or wireless device 22.

[0103] The communication system 10 also includes a network node 16 provided within the communication system 10, which includes hardware 58 enabling it to communicate with the host computer 24 and the WD 22. Hardware 58 may include a communication interface 60 for establishing and maintaining wired or wireless connections to different communication devices of the communication system 10, and a radio interface 62 for establishing and maintaining at least a wireless connection 64 with the WD 22 located within the coverage area 18 served by the network node 16. The radio interface 62 may be configured as or may include, for example, one or more RF transmitters, one or more RF receivers, and / or one or more RF transceivers. The communication interface 60 may be configured to facilitate a connection 66 to the host computer 24. Connection 66 may be direct, or it may be via the core network 14 of the communication system 10 and / or via one or more intermediate networks 30 outside the communication system 10.

[0104] In the illustrated embodiment, the hardware 58 of network node 16 also includes processing circuitry 68. Processing circuitry 68 may include processor 70 and memory 72. Specifically, in addition to or in lieu of processors (such as a central processing unit) and memory, processing circuitry 68 may include integrated circuits for processing and / or control, such as one or more processors and / or processor cores and / or FPGAs (Field-Programmable Gate Arrays) and / or ASICs (Application-Specific Integrated Circuits), adapted to execute instructions. Processor 70 may be configured to access (e.g., write to and / or read from) memory 72, which may include any type of volatile and / or non-volatile memory, such as cache and / or buffer memory and / or RAM (Random Access Memory) and / or ROM (Read-Only Memory) and / or optical memory and / or EPROM (Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory).

[0105] Therefore, network node 16 also has software 74 stored internally, such as in memory 72, or in external memory (e.g., a database, storage array, network storage device, etc.) accessible by network node 16 via an external connection. Software 74 can be executed by processing circuitry 68. Processing circuitry 68 can be configured to control any methods and / or processes described herein, and / or cause such methods and / or processes to be executed by, for example, network node 16. Processor 70 corresponds to one or more processors 70 for performing the functions of network node 16 described herein. Memory 72 is configured to store data, programming software code, and / or other information described herein. In some embodiments, software 74 may include instructions that, when executed by processor 70 and / or processing circuitry 68, cause processor 70 and / or processing circuitry 68 to perform the processes described herein with respect to network node 16. For example, processing circuitry 68 of network node 16 may include configuration unit 32 configured to configure multiple transmission resources or multiple sets of transmission opportunities for periodic uplink transmissions configured for radio resource control.

[0106] The communication system 10 also includes the previously mentioned WD 22. The WD 22 may have hardware 80, which may include a radio interface 82 configured to establish and maintain a wireless connection 64 with a network node 16 serving the coverage area 18 currently in which the WD 22 is located. The radio interface 82 may be configured as or may include, for example, one or more RF transmitters, one or more RF receivers, and / or one or more RF transceivers.

[0107] The hardware 80 of the WD 22 also includes processing circuitry 84. Processing circuitry 84 may include a processor 86 and memory 88. Specifically, in addition to or in lieu of a processor (such as a central processing unit) and memory, processing circuitry 84 may include integrated circuits for processing and / or control, such as one or more processors and / or processor cores and / or FPGAs (Field-Programmable Gate Arrays) and / or ASICs (Application-Specific Integrated Circuits), adapted to execute instructions. Processor 86 may be configured to access (e.g., write to and / or read from) memory 88, which may include any type of volatile and / or non-volatile memory, such as cache and / or buffer memory and / or RAM (Random Access Memory) and / or ROM (Read-Only Memory) and / or optical memory and / or EPROM (Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory).

[0108] Therefore, WD 22 may also include software 90, which is stored, for example, in memory 88 of WD 22, or in external storage accessible by WD 22 (e.g., a database, storage array, network storage device, etc.). Software 90 may be executed by processing circuitry 84. Software 90 may include a client application 92. With the support of host computer 24, client application 92 can provide services to human or non-human users via WD 22. In host computer 24, a host application 50 is executing and can communicate with the executing client application 92 via an OTT connection 52 terminated between WD 22 and host computer 24. When providing services to a user, client application 92 can receive request data from host application 50 and provide user data in response to the request data. OTT connection 52 can transmit request data and user data. Client application 92 can interact with the user to generate the user data it provides.

[0109] Processing circuitry 84 may be configured to control any methods and / or processes described herein, and / or to cause such methods and / or processes to be performed, for example, by WD 22. Processor 86 corresponds to one or more processors 86 for performing the functions of WD 22 described herein. WD 22 includes memory 88 configured to store data, programming software code, and / or other information described herein. In some embodiments, software 90 and / or client application 92 may include instructions that, when executed by processor 86 and / or processing circuitry 84, cause processor 86 and / or processing circuitry 84 to perform the processes described herein with respect to WD 22. For example, processing circuitry 84 of wireless device 22 may include selection unit 34 configured to select resources, periodicity and offset, or timing bitmaps associated with one or more configurations of a downlink reference signal.

[0110] In some embodiments, the internal operations of network node 16, WD 22, and host computer 24 can be as follows: Figure 4 As shown, and independently, the surrounding network topology can be Figure 3 The topology.

[0111] exist Figure 4 The OTT connection 52 has been abstractly depicted to illustrate communication between host computer 24 and wireless device 22 via network node 16, without explicitly mentioning any intermediate devices or the precise routing of messages via these devices. The network infrastructure can determine the routing, which can be configured to be hidden from WD 22 or the service provider operating host computer 24, or both. When OTT connection 52 is active, the network infrastructure can make further decisions, dynamically altering the routing (e.g., based on load balancing considerations or network reconfiguration).

[0112] The wireless connection 64 between WD 22 and network node 16 is based on the teachings of embodiments described throughout the invention. One or more of the various embodiments improve the performance of OTT services provided to WD 22 using OTT connection 52, wherein wireless connection 64 may form a final segment. More precisely, the teachings of some of these embodiments can improve data rates, latency, and / or power consumption, thereby providing benefits such as reduced user wait times, relaxed file size limits, better responsiveness, and extended battery life.

[0113] In some embodiments, a measurement process may be provided to monitor data rates, latency, and other factors improved in one or more embodiments. Optional network functionality may also be available for reconfiguring the OTT connection 52 between host computer 24 and WD 22 in response to changes in measurement results. The measurement process and / or network functionality for reconfiguring the OTT connection 52 may be implemented in software 48 of host computer 24 or software 90 of WD 22, or both. In embodiments, sensors (not shown) may be deployed in or associated with the communication equipment through which the OTT connection 52 passes; the sensors may participate in the measurement process by providing values ​​of the monitored quantity illustrated above, or by providing values ​​of other physical quantities that software 48, 90 can calculate or estimate. Reconfiguration of the OTT connection 52 may include message formatting, retransmission settings, preferred routing, etc.; reconfiguration does not need to affect network node 16, and it may be unknown or imperceptible to network node 16. Some of these processes and functions are known and practiced in the art. In some embodiments, measurements may include proprietary WD signaling, enabling host computer 24 to measure throughput, propagation time, latency, etc. In some embodiments, measurement can be achieved because software 48, 90 uses OTT connection 52 to transmit messages, particularly empty messages or 'fake' messages, while monitoring propagation time, errors, etc.

[0114] Therefore, in some embodiments, host computer 24 includes processing circuitry 42 configured to provide user data and a communication interface 40 configured to forward user data to a cellular network for transmission to WD 22. In some embodiments, the cellular network also includes a network node 16 having a radio interface 62. In some embodiments, network node 16 is configured and / or processing circuitry 68 of network node 16 is configured to perform the functions and / or methods described herein for preparing / initiating / maintaining / supporting / terminating transmissions to WD 22, and / or preparing / terminating / maintaining / supporting / terminating transmissions received from WD 22.

[0115] In some embodiments, host computer 24 includes processing circuitry 42 and a communication interface 40 configured to receive user data originating from transmissions from WD 22 to network node 16. In some embodiments, WD 22 is configured to and / or include a radio interface 82 and / or processing circuitry 84 configured to perform the functions and / or methods described herein for preparing / initiating / maintaining / supporting / terminating transmissions to network node 16, and / or preparing / terminating / maintaining / supporting / terminating transmissions received from network node 16.

[0116] Although Figure 3 and Figure 4Various "units," such as configuration unit 32 and selection unit 34, are shown as residing within their respective processors; however, it is conceivable that these units could be implemented such that a portion of the unit is stored in a corresponding memory within the processing circuitry. In other words, these units could be implemented within the processing circuitry in hardware or a combination of hardware and software.

[0117] Figure 5 This illustrates a communication system (such as, for example) according to one embodiment. Figure 3 and Figure 4 The flowchart illustrates an example method implemented in a communication system. The communication system may include a host computer 24, a network node 16, and a WD 22, which may be referenced... Figure 4 The methods described herein are as follows: In the first step, host computer 24 provides user data (block S100). In an optional sub-step of the first step, host computer 24 provides user data by executing a host application (such as, for example, host application 50) (block S102). In the second step, host computer 24 initiates a transmission carrying user data to WD 22 (block S104). In an optional third step, in accordance with the teachings throughout the embodiments described herein, network node 16 transmits the user data carried in the transmission initiated by host computer 24 to WD 22 (block S106). In an optional fourth step, WD 22 executes a client application associated with host application 50 (such as, for example, client application 92) executed by host computer 24 (block S108).

[0118] Figure 6 This illustrates a communication system (such as, for example) according to one embodiment. Figure 3 The flowchart illustrates an example method implemented in a communication system. The communication system may include a host computer 24, a network node 16, and a WD 22, which may be referenced... Figure 3 and Figure 4 The methods described herein are as follows. In the first step, host computer 24 provides user data (block S110). In an optional sub-step (not shown), host computer 24 provides user data by executing a host application (such as, for example, host application 50). In the second step, host computer 24 initiates a transmission carrying user data to WD 22 (block S112). According to the teachings of the embodiments described throughout the invention, the transmission may be carried out via network node 16. In an optional third step, WD 22 receives the user data carried in the transmission (block S114).

[0119] Figure 7 This illustrates a communication system (such as, for example) according to one embodiment. Figure 3The flowchart illustrates an example method implemented in a communication system. The communication system may include a host computer 24, a network node 16, and a WD 22, which may be referenced... Figure 3 and Figure 4 The methods described herein. In an optional first step, WD 22 receives input data provided by host computer 24 (block S116). In an optional sub-step of the first step, WD 22 executes client application 92, which provides user data in response to the received input data provided by host computer 24 (block S118). Additionally or alternatively, in an optional second step, WD 22 provides user data (block S120). In an optional sub-step of the second step, WD provides user data by executing a client application (such as, for example, client application 92) (block S122). When providing user data, the executed client application 92 may further consider user input received from the user. Regardless of the specific manner in which user data is provided, in an optional third sub-step, WD 22 may initiate the transmission of user data to host computer 24 (block S124). In a fourth step of the method, in accordance with the teachings throughout the embodiments described herein, host computer 24 receives user data transmitted from WD 22 (block S126).

[0120] Figure 8 This illustrates a communication system (such as, for example) according to one embodiment. Figure 3 The flowchart illustrates an example method implemented in a communication system. The communication system may include a host computer 24, a network node 16, and a WD 22, which may be referenced... Figure 3 and Figure 4 The methods described herein are as follows. In an optional first step, network node 16 receives user data from WD 22 in accordance with the teachings throughout the embodiments described herein (block S128). In an optional second step, network node 16 initiates the transmission of the received user data to host computer 24 (block S130). In a third step, host computer 24 receives the user data carried in the transmission initiated by network node 16 (block S132).

[0121] Figure 9This is a flowchart of an example process for adapting periodic configurations based on spatial relationships in network node 16. One or more blocks described herein can be performed by one or more elements of network node 16, such as processing circuitry 68 (including configuration unit 32), processor 70, radio interface 62, and / or communication interface 60. Network node 16 is configured, for example via processing circuitry 68 and / or processor 70 and / or radio interface 62 and / or communication interface 60, to configure multiple transmission resources or multiple sets of transmission opportunities for periodic uplink transmissions in a radio resource control configuration (block S134). The process also includes associating each configured uplink transmission received by the network node from the WD with a downlink reference signal, which is provided as a direct or indirect spatial relationship reference for the uplink transmission (block S136).

[0122] Figure 10 This is a flowchart of an example process in a wireless device 22 according to some embodiments of the present invention. One or more blocks described herein can be performed by one or more elements of the wireless device 22, such as one or more of processing circuitry 84 (including selection unit 34), processor 86, radio interface 82, and / or communication interface 60. The wireless device 22 is configured, for example via processing circuitry 84 and / or processor 86 and / or radio interface 82, to measure downlink signal quality (block S138). The process also includes, based on the measurement, selecting one or more configured resources, or periodicity and offset, or timing bitmap associated with a downlink reference signal (block S140).

[0123] Figure 11 This is a flowchart of an example process in a network node based on the principles set forth herein. One or more blocks described herein can be executed by one or more elements of network node 16, such as processing circuitry 68 (including configuration unit 32), processor 70, radio interface 62, and / or communication interface 60. Network node 16 is configured, for example via processing circuitry 68 and / or processor 70 and / or radio interface 62 and / or communication interface 60, to configure multiple transmission resources or multiple sets of transmission opportunities for use by the WD on periodic uplink transmissions configured by Radio Resource Control (RRC) (block S142). The process also includes determining which configured transmission resources or multiple sets of transmission opportunities the WD is using (block S144). The process also includes receiving transmissions from the WD in at least one of the determined multiple transmission resources or multiple sets of transmission opportunities (block S146).

[0124] Figure 12This is a flowchart of an example process in a wireless device based on the principles set forth herein. One or more blocks described herein can be performed by one or more elements of the wireless device 22, such as one or more of processing circuitry 84 (including selection unit 34), processor 86, radio interface 82, and / or communication interface 60. The wireless device 22 is configured, for example via processing circuitry 84 and / or processor 86 and / or radio interface 82, to receive a plurality of periodic uplink transmission resources via at least one Radio Resource Control (RRC) message (block S148). The process also includes enabling or disabling a subset of the plurality of periodic uplink transmission resources (block S150). The process also includes transmitting uplink transmissions on one or more enabled periodic uplink transmission resources (block S152).

[0125] The general process flow of the arrangement of the present invention has been described, and examples of hardware and software arrangements for implementing the processes and functions of the present invention have been provided. The following sections provide details and examples of arrangements for adjusting periodic configurations based on spatial relationships.

[0126] As used herein, the “valid spatial” relationship is (1) determined autonomously by the WD through measurements of the corresponding uplink or downlink reference signals, where the valid spatial relationship corresponds to a sufficiently strong measurement, or (2) received from the network via explicit signaling. For (2), the measurement can be performed by the WD and pre-fed back to the network, so the network knows what valid spatial relationship to indicate to the WD.

[0127] The uplink transport resources specify the frequency allocation, code allocation, and precoding parameters that WD 22 may need for transmitting UL-SCH or UCI on PUCCH or PUSCH. The applicable scenarios presented in this document include Schedule Request (SR), Configuration Grant (CG) Type 1, and Periodic / Semi-Persistent (P / SP) CSI report configurations. When handling specific applicable scenarios such as SR transmissions, CG Type 1 transmissions, and P / SP CSI reports, the configuration of the uplink transport resources may take different forms, as listed in the following examples.

[0128] • For SR transmissions, the aforementioned periodic uplink transmission resource refers to ScheduledRequestResourceConfig, which is configured to WD 22 as part of PUCCHConfig and used by the MAC layer via its association with ScheduledRequestConfig;

[0129] • For CG type 1 transmission, the aforementioned periodic uplink transmission resource refers to rrc-ConfiguredUplinkGrant in ConfiguredGrantConfig;

[0130] • For P / SP CSI reports, the aforementioned periodic uplink transmission resources refer to CSI-ReportConfig with reportConfigType set to periodic or semiPersistentOnPUCCH.

[0131] Periodic uplink transmission resources are associated with periodicity and time offset (collectively referred to as periodicityAndOffset). The periodicityAndOffset of a periodic uplink transmission resource specifies the periodicity and time offset of the resource. This parameter can take different forms depending on the specific application scenario, as shown in the following examples.

[0132] • For SR transmissions, the periodicityAndOffset parameter is directly provided by SchedulingRequestereSourceConfig;

[0133] For CG type 1 transmissions, the periodicityAndOffset parameter is provided by both ConfiguredGrantConfig::periodicity and RRC-ConfiguredUplinkGrant::timeDomainOffset (related to the system reference timing);

[0134] For P / SP CSI reports, the periodicityAndOffset parameter refers to reportSlotConfig in CSI-ReportConfig.

[0135] Periodic uplink transmission resources are associated with the `spatialRelationInfo` parameter, which specifies the source of spatial relations to be used in the transmission. This parameter can take different forms depending on the specific application scenario, as shown in the following examples.

[0136] For SR transmissions, the PUCCH-SpatialRelationInfo parameter refers to the spatial relationship information of the associated PUCCH resources;

[0137] • For CG type 1 transmissions, the spatial relation source is an SRS resource, and the srs-ResourceIndicator parameter is specified in rrc-ConfiguredUplinkGrant;

[0138] For P / SP CSI reports, the PUCCH-spatialRelationInfo parameter refers to the spatial relationship information of the associated PUCCH resources.

[0139] Example 1: Overview

[0140] This invention describes the configuration of multiple transport resources or multiple sets of transport timings for periodic uplink transmissions (such as scheduling requests, CG type 1, and P / SP CSI reports) used for RRC configuration.

[0141] In some embodiments, each configured uplink transmission resource or each set of transmission opportunities is associated with a DL-RS (SSB or CSI-RS), which is provided as a direct or indirect spatial relation reference for the uplink transmission resource or the set of transmission opportunities. The spatial relation can be the DL RS (SSB or CSI-RS) itself or a UL RS (SRS) associated with each configured uplink transmission resource or each set of transmission opportunities. This association can be maintained at network node 16 (network control method) or WD 22 (WD autonomous method). For the latter, network node 16 can indicate the association to WD 22. Ideally, WD 22 in all connection modes within the DL-RS coverage area should initiate configured uplink transmissions (i.e., uplink transmissions other than those dynamically scheduled) using the transmission resources or transmission opportunities associated with the DL-RS. Network node 16 can configure time-domain parameters for periodic uplink transmission resources or transmission opportunities in such a way that transmissions from multiple WD 22s within the DL-RS coverage area occur within a specific time window. The advantages of doing so are at least twofold, including: enabling configuration transmissions from multiple WD 22s to be frequency or code multiplexed in the same time resources (time slots or OFDM symbols), and facilitating network node 16 to receive configuration transmissions from multiple WD 22s using the same network node receive beamforming filter.

[0142] At any time or at a specified time, one or more configured periodic uplink transmission resources or one or more sets of configured transmission opportunities can be selected as active resources, which can be used by WD 22 for configured uplink transmissions. The active configured resources or transmission opportunity groups can be determined by network node 16 or WD 22. In this invention, the former is referred to as the network control method, and the latter as the WD 22 autonomous method. Based on how network node 16 transmits updates of active transmission resources or active transmission opportunity groups to WD 22, the network control method is further classified into two different variations. In some embodiments, updates of active transmission resources or transmission opportunity groups are explicitly signaled to WD 22 by network node 16. In some embodiments, updates of active transmission resources or transmission opportunity groups are implicitly performed by network node 16 updating spatial relation sources for transmission resources or transmission opportunity groups.

[0143] When WD 22 moves within the cell coverage area, the actively configured uplink transmission resources or transmission timing groups can be updated. When WD 22 moves from one SSB or CSI-RS coverage area to another, WD 22 can switch to another transmission resource(s) or transmission timing group for the configured uplink transmission. This can be triggered by signaling from network node 16 in the network control method, or autonomously triggered based on internal measurements in the WD 22 autonomous method. By switching to another transmission resource(s) or transmission timing group, different frequency and / or code resources can be used at different periods and times, and different spatial relation sources can be used to perform the configured uplink transmission.

[0144] Example 1-1: Explicit Network Control Method

[0145] This embodiment provides a brief description of the concept of an explicit network control method.

[0146] In some embodiments, in the serving cell's BWP, WD 22 is configured with zero or one periodic uplink transmission resources for UL-SCH or UCI transmissions. This contrasts with known methods, in which WD 22 is configured with at most one periodic uplink resource in the serving cell's BWP. Configured UL licenses are an exception; support for multiple configured licenses was introduced in 3GPPRel-16.

[0147] The WD 22 can continuously measure the DL radio quality of the reference SSB or CSI-RS, such as received power (i.e., L1 reference signal received power (RSRP)), reference signal received quality (RSRQ), signal-to-interference-to-noise ratio (SINR), received signal strength information (RSSI), channel occupancy, and Listen-Before-Speak (LBT) / Clear Channel Assessment (CCA) fault statistics (such as fault counters or fault ratios). Measurement results can be reported to network node 16 via CSI reports.

[0148] At any time or at a specified time, network node 16 may indicate one or more of the configured periodic uplink transmission resources as active, which may be specified by RRC, MAC, or Layer 1 signaling. Inactive configured transmission resources shall not be applied to the configured transmissions.

[0149] When WD 22 moves from one SSB or CSI-RS beam coverage area to another, network node 16 can update the active transmission resources of WD 22 via RRC, MAC, or Layer 1 signaling. Network node 16 can determine the active transmission resources of WD 22 based on DL-RS measurement reports from WD 22 or based on measurements of SRS transmitted by WD 22.

[0150] In some embodiments, WD 22 may be configured with a bitmap field that indicates a subset of periodic transmission opportunities in the time domain that can be used for the configured transmission. The bitmap size should be long enough to cover the number of periodic opportunities during at least one PUCCH-CSI reporting interval.

[0151] When WD 22 moves from one SSB or CSI-RS beam coverage area to another, network node 16 can update the bitmap of WD 22 via RRC, MAC, or Layer 1 signaling. Network node 16 can determine the bitmap of WD 22 based on DL-RS measurement reports from WD 22 or based on measurements of SRS transmitted by WD 22.

[0152] Example 1-1a: Scheduling Request

[0153] In some embodiments, within a serving cell's BWP, an SR configuration can be associated with one or more SR resources (SchedulingRequestResourceConfig). At any time or at a specified time, one or more configured SR resources can be indicated as active, which can be specified by an explicit indicator. The active SR resource indicator can take the form of an index referencing one of the SR resources, or it can take the form of a bit field that supports indicating multiple active SR resources, such as SR-ActiveResourceIndex or SR-ActiveResourceBitmap, respectively. When WD 22 moves from one SSB or CSI-RS beam coverage area to another, network node 16 can update the active SR resources of WD 22 via RRC, MAC, or Layer 1 signaling.

[0154] In some embodiments, a new MAC CE is introduced to update the active SR resource used for SR configuration. Figure 15 This is an example of enabling / disabling MAC-CE for SR resources, where the SR resource bitmap specifies one or more active SR resources (e.g., 0 / 1 for enabling / disabling) in the BWP of the serving cell, as specified by the corresponding field in MAC CE.

[0155] In some embodiments, network node 16 updates active SR resources with a DCI, which can be an extension of an existing DCI format or a new DCI format. The DCI format should carry a field to specify one or more of the configured SR resources in the BWP of the serving cell for SR configuration.

[0156] Example 1-1b: CG Type 1

[0157] In some embodiments, the WD 22 is configured with a CG Type 1 configuration (ConfiguredGrantConfig) containing one or more UL grants (rrc-ConfiguredUplinkGrant) for RRC configurations. Each UL grant contains an SRS resource indicator (SRS-ResourceInfo) that references an SRS resource in the SRS configuration, which is then configured to have a spatial relationship with a DL or UL RS (SSB, CSI-RS, or another SRS). Alternatively, the WD 22 may be configured with multiple CG Type 1 configurations, each with one UL grant for an RRC configuration, thus effectively configuring multiple UL grants for RRC configurations. At any time or at a specified time, one or more of the configured UL grants may be indicated as active, which can be specified by an explicit indicator. The active grant indicator may take the form of an index referencing one of the configured UL grants, or it may take the form of a bit field that supports indicating multiple active configured UL grants, referred to as cg-ActiveConfiguredUplinkGrantIndex or cg-ActiveConfiguredUplinkGrantBitmap, respectively.

[0158] When WD 22 moves from one SSB or CSI-RS coverage area to another, network node 16 can update the UL authorization configuration of WD 22’s active configuration via RRC, MAC, or Layer 1 signaling.

[0159] In some embodiments, network node 16 updates the UL authorization of the active configuration by sending a MAC CE to WD 22. In some embodiments, a new MAC CE format may be introduced for this purpose, namely the CG type 1 active authorization update MAC CE. Figure 16 As shown, the new MAC CE may include an indicator that specifies which configurations of UL authorization are enabled in the BWP of the serving cell.

[0160] In some embodiments, network node 16 updates the UL authorization configured in the active configuration via a DCI, which can be an extension of an existing DCI format or a new DCI format. The DCI format should carry a field indicating that one or more of the UL authorizations configured in the CG configuration are enabled and should be used by WD 22 for subsequent CG Type 1 transmissions.

[0161] Example 1-1c: P / SP CSI Report

[0162] In some embodiments, within a BWP in the serving cell, a persistent / semi-persistent (P / SP) CSI report configuration (CSI-ReportConfig, where reportConfigType is set to periodic or semi-persistentOnPUCCH) can be associated with one or more PUCCH CSI resources (PUCCH-CSI-Resources). At any time or at a specified time, one or more of the configured PUCCH CSI resources can be indicated as active, which can be specified by an explicit indicator. The active PUCCH CSI resource indicator can take the form of an index referencing one of the PUCCH CSI resources, or it can take the form of a bit field that supports indicating multiple active PUCCH CSI resources, referred to as csi-ActivePUCCH-CSI-ResourceIndex or csi-ActivePUCCH-CSI-ResourceBitmap, respectively.

[0163] When WD 22 moves from one SSB or CSI-RS beam coverage area to another, network node 16 can update the active PUCCH CSI resources of WD 22 via RRC, MAC, or Layer 1 signaling.

[0164] In some embodiments, the new MAC CE can be used to update the active PUCCHCSI resource for P / SP CSI report configuration. Figure 15 An example of enabling / disabling MAC-CE for PUCCH CSI resources is given, where the A / D bits indicate whether PUCCH CSI resources are enabled or disabled, and the PUCCH CSI resource bitmap specifies one or more active PUCCH CSI resources for CSI reports.

[0165] In some embodiments, network node 16 uses a DCI to update active PUCCH CSI resources. This DCI can be an extension of an existing DCI format or a new DCI format. The DCI format should carry fields specifying one or more of the configured PUCCH CSI resources in the P / SP CSI report configuration.

[0166] Examples 1-2: Implicit Network Control Method

[0167] This embodiment provides a brief description of the concept of implicit network control methods.

[0168] In some embodiments, compared to the known method of WD 22 configuring zero or one periodic uplink resources in the BWP of the serving cell, WD 22 configures zero or one or more periodic uplink transmission resources in the BWP of the serving cell for UL-SCH or UCI transmission. Each configured uplink transmission resource is associated with a spatial relationship to a DL RS or SRS resource, thereby effectively creating a list of (transmissionResource, spatialRelationInfo) pairs.

[0169] In some embodiments, in the BWP of the serving cell, WD 22 may be configured with multiple sets of periodic transmission opportunities for uplink transmission resources, each set of transmission opportunities being associated with a specific spatial relation source.

[0170] In some embodiments, multiple sets of transmission timings can be defined as a list of (periodicityAndOffset, spatialRelationInfo) pairs of uplink transmission resources.

[0171] In some embodiments, multiple sets of transmission timings are defined as a list of (timeOffset, spatialRelationInfo) pairs, where the offset covers a single offset configured by periodicityAndOffset of the periodic uplink transmission resources, or alternatively is added (potentially modulo periodicity) to an existing offset.

[0172] In another example, multiple sets of transmission timings are defined as a list of (occasionBitmap, spatialRelationInfo) pairs of uplink transmission resources.

[0173] The WD 22 can continuously measure DL radio quality with reference to the SSB or CSI-RS, such as received power (i.e., L1-RSRP), RSRQ, SINR, RSSI, channel occupancy, LBT / CCA fault statistics (such as fault counters or fault ratios), etc. Measurement results are reported to network node 16 via CSI reports, as may be known.

[0174] At any time or at a specified time, network node 16 can select one or more configured transmission resources or one or more sets of transmission opportunities and transmit them to WD 22. Network node 16 can determine the active transmission resources or active transmission opportunity groups of WD 22 based on DL-RS measurement reports from WD 22 or based on SRS measurements of WD 22 transmissions.

[0175] When WD 22 moves from one SSB or CSI-RS beam coverage area to another, network node 16 can update the active transmission resource or active transmission timing group of WD 22. Network node 16 can implicitly update the active transmission resource or active transmission timing group by reconfiguring the associated spatial relationships used for PUCCH or PUSCH transmissions. This allows selection of different entries from a list of (transmissionResource, spatialRelationInfo) pairs, a list of (periodicityAndOffset, spatialRelationInfo) pairs, a list of (timeOffset, spatialRelationInfo) pairs, or a list of (occasionBitmap, spatialRelationInfo) pairs, thereby selecting different transmission resources or different transmission timing groups. Inactive configured transmission resources or transmission timing groups should not be used for configured transmissions.

[0176] In some embodiments, each uplink transmission resource or resource group corresponding to different transmission times is configured with a spatial relationship to a DL RS (CSI-RS or SSB) or UL RS (SRS), and when WD 22 moves from one SSB or CSI-RS beam coverage area to another, network node 16 updates the spatial relationship to a valid reference signal (RS) identifier (ID) or an invalid identifier. In some embodiments, the invalid identifier can be a null value (such as all zeros (0), all ones (63), or -1). A resource or resource group with an invalid identifier cannot be used for the configured transmission.

[0177] Example 1-2a: Scheduling Request

[0178] In some embodiments, within the BWP of the serving cell, an SR configuration (SchedulingRequestConfig) can be associated with one or more SR resources (SchedulingRequestResourceConfig), thereby effectively creating a list of (SchedulingRequestResourceConfig, PUCCH-SpatialRelationInfoId) pairs. In some embodiments, only SR resources associated with valid spatial relationships can be used for SR transport.

[0179] Alternatively, multiple Scheduled Request Configurations (SRs) can be configured for a Logical Channel (LCH) in the BWP of the serving cell. Each SR configuration is associated with a PUCCH-SpatialRelationInfoId included in the Scheduled RequestResourceConfig, thereby effectively creating a list of (Scheduling RequestConfig, PUCCH-SpatialRelationInfoId) pairs. In some embodiments, only SR resources associated with valid spatial relationships can be used for SR transmission.

[0180] In some embodiments, the SR configuration in the BWP of the serving cell can be configured with one or more sets of SR transmission timings, as described in Embodiments 1-2, specified by periodyAndOffset, timeOffset, or occasionBitmap.

[0181] When WD 22 moves from one SSB or CSI-RS beam coverage area to another, network node 16 can update the spatial relationship configuration of the PUCCH used by the SR resource. MAC CE can change the active spatial relationship of the PUCCH resource (i.e., enable / disable MAC CE for (enhanced) PUCCH spatial relationship). By configuring a specific spatial relationship for the PUCCH, the corresponding SR resource or transmission timing group is implicitly indicated as active.

[0182] In some embodiments, a null value (such as all zeros (0), all ones (63), or -1) can be introduced into the spatial relationship information ID field in the MAC CE to indicate that the corresponding PUCCH resource does not have a valid spatial relationship configuration. In some embodiments, the network node 16 only indicates active PUCCH resources and their corresponding spatial relationship information in the MAC CE. PUCCH resources whose spatial relationships are not indicated by the MAC CE can be interpreted as invalid or inactive.

[0183] In some embodiments, network node 16 updates the spatial relationships of SR resources via DCI, which can be an extension of an existing DCI format or a new DCI format. The DCI format should carry at least one or more PUCCH resource IDs and corresponding spatial relationship information IDs, referring to the PUCCH resource configuration and spatial relationship information configuration in RRC, respectively.

[0184] Example 1-2b: CG Type 1

[0185] In some embodiments, WD 22 is configured with a CG type 1 configuration (ConfiguredGrantConfig) in a BWP of the serving cell, which contains one or more UL grants (rrc-ConfiguredUplinkGrants) of RRC configuration. Each of the UL grants contains an SRS resource indicator that references an SRS resource (SRS-ResourceInfo) in the SRS configuration, which is then configured to have a spatial relationship with a DL or UL RS (SSB, CSI-RS, or another SRS). This effectively creates a list of (rrc-ConfiguredUplinkGrant, SRS-ResourceInfo) pairs.

[0186] Alternatively, the WD 22 can be configured with multiple CG Type 1 configurations, each with a UL license for an RRC configuration, thus being assigned multiple UL licenses for RRC configurations. The license for each RRC configuration can contain an SRS resource indicator, thereby effectively creating a list of (ConfiguredGrantConfig, SRS-ResourceInfo) pairs.

[0187] In another embodiment, in the BWP of the serving cell, the CG type 1 configuration can be configured with one or more sets of PUSCH transmission timings, as described in embodiments 1-2, specified by periodicityAndOffset or timeOffset or occasionBitmap.

[0188] When WD 22 moves from one SSB or CSI-RS beam coverage area to another, network node 16 can update the spatial relationship configuration for RRC configuration authorization. The active spatial relationship used for RRC configuration authorization is changed by MAC CE (e.g., by enabling / disabling semi-persistent SRS via SP SRS MAC CE, which in turn has a spatial relationship with SSB / CSI-RS). By configuring specific spatial relationships for the configured authorization PUSCH, the corresponding RRC configuration authorization or transmission timing group is implicitly indicated as active. Configuration authorizations of SP SRS that are disabled by MAC-CE are implicitly indicated as inactive and should not be used for configured transmissions. In some embodiments, network node 16 updates the spatial relationship for CG type 1 RRC configuration authorization via DCI, which can be an extension of an existing DCI format or a new DCI format. The DCI format should carry at least one or more authorization indices for RRC configurations and corresponding SRS resource indicators, referring to the authorization configuration and SRS resource configuration of the RRC configuration, respectively.

[0189] Example 1-2c: P / SP CSI Report

[0190] In some embodiments, a P / SP CSI report configuration (CSI-ReportConfig, where reportConfigType is set to periodic or semi-persistentOnPUCCH) can be assigned one or more PUCCH CSI resources (PUCCH-CSI-Resource) to effectively create a list of (PUCCH-CSI-Resource, PUCCH-SpatialRelationInfoId) pairs. Only PUCCH CSI resources associated with valid spatial relationships can be used for CSI reporting.

[0191] In some embodiments, in the BWP of the serving cell, the P / SP CSI report configuration can be configured with one or more sets of PUCCH transmission timings, as described in Embodiments 1-2, specified by periodicityAndOffset, timeOffset, or occasionBitmap.

[0192] When WD 22 moves from one SSB or CSI-RS beam coverage area to another, network node 16 can update the spatial relationship configuration of the PUCCH resources referenced in the P / SP CSI report configuration. As in the prior art, MACCE can change the active spatial relationship of PUCCH resources (i.e., enable / disable MAC CE for (enhanced) PUCCH spatial relationships). By configuring a specific spatial relationship for a PUCCH, the corresponding PUCCH CSI resource or transmission timing group is implicitly indicated as active.

[0193] In some embodiments, a null value (such as all zeros (0) or all ones (63)) can be introduced into the spatial relationship information ID field in the MAC CE to indicate that the corresponding PUCCH resource does not have a valid spatial relationship configuration. In another non-limiting example, network node 16 only indicates active PUCCH resources and their corresponding spatial relationship information in the MAC CE. PUCCH resources whose spatial relationships are not indicated by the MAC CE can be interpreted as invalid or inactive.

[0194] In some embodiments, network node 16 updates the spatial relationships of PUCCH CSI resources via DCI, which can be an extension of an existing DCI format or a new DCI format. The DCI format should carry at least one or more PUCCH resource IDs and corresponding spatial relationship information IDs, referring to the PUCCH resource configuration and spatial relationship information configuration in RRC, respectively.

[0195] Examples 1-3: WD Autonomous Approach

[0196] This embodiment provides a brief description of the WD 22 autonomous approach concept.

[0197] As described in the previous embodiments, the WD 22, configured with multiple periodic uplink transmission resources or alternatives, and configured with a list of (periodicityAndOffset, spatialRelationInfo) pairs, or a list of (timeOffset, spatialRelationInfo) pairs, or a list of (occasionBitmap, spatialRelationInfo) pairs for uplink transmission resources, can continuously measure the DL radio quality of the reference SSB or CSI-RS, such as received power (i.e., L1-RSRP), RSRQ, SINR, RSSI, channel occupancy, LBT / CCA fault statistics (such as fault counters or fault ratios), etc. Based on the measurement results, the WD 22 can select one or more configured resources, or periodicity and offset, or timing bitmaps, associated with the preferred DL-RS for the configured uplink transmission, while ignoring resources configured with SSBs or CSI-RSs having poor received power.

[0198] WD 22 can apply at least one of the following options to select the preferred SSB or CSI-RS:

[0199] As an option, WD 22 can select a preferred SSB or CSI-RS using at least one threshold, such as received power (i.e., L1-RSRP), RSRQ, SINR, RSSI, channel occupancy, LBT / CCA fault statistics (such as fault counter or fault ratio), etc. In the first step, WD 22 selects a candidate list with measurement quality above the threshold. In the second step, WD 22 can select any one from the candidate list in the first step. Alternatively, WD 22 can select the strongest one from the candidate list in the first step. If no SSB or CSI-RS has measurement quality above the threshold, WD 22 can select any SSB or CSI-RS. Alternatively, WD 22 can select the SSB or CSI-RS with the strongest radio quality.

[0200] As another option, WD 22 can select either SSB or CSI-RS based on more than one measurement. WD 22 can select either SSB or CSI-RS if all measurements meet the threshold. Alternatively, WD 22 can first select the group of SSBs or CSI-RS with the strongest measurement in relation to the first measurement. Second, WD 22 can select the SSB or CSI-RS within that group with the strongest measurement in relation to the second measurement.

[0201] When the SRS resource is configured as the spatial relation source of the configured uplink transmission resource, and the reference SRS is configured to have a direct or indirect spatial relation with the DL reference signal (i.e., SSB or CSI-RS), the spatial relation source of the SR resource can ultimately be traced to the SSB or CSI-RS. In these cases, WD 22 can directly select the actively configured uplink resource or periodicityAndOffset or timeOffset or occasionBitmap based on measurements of the SSB or CSI-RS.

[0202] When an SRS resource is configured as a spatial relationship source for a configured uplink resource, and the reference SRS is not configured to have a direct or indirect spatial relationship with a DL reference signal (i.e., SSB or CSI-RS), WD 22 can establish and maintain a “virtual spatial relationship” between the configured uplink resource and the DL reference signal. In some embodiments, the “virtual spatial relationship” can be internally constructed and maintained by WD 22 based on the most recent measurement history of the DL reference signal and the SRS resource indication of the most recent PUCCH / PUSCH transmission. In these cases, WD 22 can select the active configured uplink resource or periodicityAndOffset or timeOffset or occasionBitmap based on measurements of the SSB or CSI-RS associated via the “virtual spatial relationship”.

[0203] In some embodiments, another non-limiting embodiment, the "virtual space relationship" may be explicitly indicated to WD 22 by network node 16 via MAC-CE or DCI-based signaling.

[0204] Figure 16 An example of WD 22 autonomously switching SR resources during mobility is shown. In the first position, WD 22 uses SR resource 1 for transmission, which is configured to have a direct or indirect spatial relationship with SSB 5. After WD 22 moves to the second position, WD 22 measures a stronger received power from SSB 6 and autonomously switches to SR resource 0 for subsequent SR transmissions.

[0205] According to one aspect, a network node 16 configured to communicate with a wireless device (WD 22) includes a radio interface 62 and / or processing circuitry 68 configured to configure multiple transmission resources or multiple sets of transmission opportunities for periodic uplink transmissions in a radio resource control configuration. The network node 16 is also configured to associate each configured uplink transmission received by the network node 16 from the WD 22 with a downlink reference signal, which is provided as a direct or indirect spatial relation reference for the uplink transmission.

[0206] According to this aspect, in some embodiments, the processing circuitry 68 and / or the radio interface also signal the association to the WD 22. In some embodiments, the processing circuitry 68 is also configured to periodically configure uplink transmission time-domain parameters so that all configured uplink transmissions occur within a specific time window. In some embodiments, the processing circuitry 68 is also configured to select one or more of a periodic uplink transmission resource or a set of or more transmission timings. In some embodiments, the processing circuitry is also configured to periodically update the spatial relationship reference.

[0207] According to another aspect, a method implemented in network node 16 includes configuring multiple transmission resources or multiple sets of transmission opportunities for periodic uplink transmissions configured for radio resource control via processing circuitry 68, and associating each configured uplink transmission received by network node 16 from WD 22 with a downlink reference signal provided as a direct or indirect spatial relation reference for the uplink transmission.

[0208] According to this aspect, in some embodiments, the method further includes signaling the association to WD 22 via radio interface 62. In some embodiments, the method further includes configuring time-domain parameters for periodic uplink transmissions via processing circuitry 68 so that all configured uplink transmissions occur within a specific time window. In some embodiments, the method further includes selecting one or more of periodic uplink transmission resources or a set of or more transmission opportunities via processing circuitry 68. In some embodiments, the method further includes periodically updating the spatial relationship reference.

[0209] According to another aspect, the wireless device (WD 22) is configured to communicate with network node 16. WD 22 includes a radio interface 82 and / or processing circuitry 84, which is configured to: measure downlink signal quality; and based on the measurement, select one or more configured resources, or periodicity and offset, or timing bitmaps associated with a downlink reference signal.

[0210] Based on this aspect, the selection includes: selecting resources configured to cause the measured signal quality to exceed a threshold, or periodicity and offset, or timing bitmap.

[0211] According to another aspect, a method implemented in a wireless device (WD 22) includes: measuring downlink signal quality via processing circuitry 84 and / or radio interface 82; and based on the measurement, selecting one or more configured resources, or periodicity and offset, or timing bitmaps associated with a downlink reference signal.

[0212] Based on this aspect, the selection includes: selecting resources configured to cause the measured signal quality to exceed a threshold, or periodicity and offset, or timing bitmap.

[0213] According to another aspect, a network node 16 configured to communicate with WD 22 is provided. Network node 16 includes processing circuitry 68 configured to configure multiple transmission resources or multiple sets of transmission opportunities for use by WD 22 in periodic uplink transmissions configured by Radio Resource Control (RRC). Processing circuitry 68 is also configured to determine which of the configured multiple transmission resources or multiple sets of transmission opportunities WD 22 uses. Network node 16 also includes a radio interface 62 configured to receive transmissions from WD 22 in at least one of the determined multiple transmission resources or multiple sets of transmission opportunities.

[0214] According to this aspect, processing circuitry 68 is also configured to enable or disable one or more of a plurality of transmission resources or sets of transmission opportunities configured for RRC by using explicit signaling. In some embodiments, explicit signaling is Media Access Control (MAC) Control Element (CE) or Downlink Control Information (DCI). In some embodiments, transmissions received from WD 22 are associated with a downlink reference signal, which is a direct or indirect spatial relation reference for the received periodic uplink transmissions configured for RRC. In some embodiments, radio interface 62 is also configured to receive periodic uplink transmissions configured for RRC from a plurality of WD 22 using the same beamforming filter. In some embodiments, processing circuitry 68 is also configured to configure time-domain parameters for periodic uplink transmissions configured for RRC via the radio interface so that all periodic uplink transmissions configured for RRC from a set of WD 22 within the coverage area of ​​the same beam occur within the same time window. In some embodiments, the spatial relation reference for periodic uplink transmissions configured for RRC is an uplink or downlink reference signal associated with each configured uplink transmission resource or each set of transmission opportunities among a plurality of transmission resources. In some embodiments, processing circuitry 68 is further configured to configure a plurality of periodic uplink transmission resources for WD 22 for uplink transmission in the bandwidth portion of the serving cell. In some embodiments, processing circuitry 68 is further configured to associate scheduling request configuration with one or more scheduling request resources in the bandwidth portion of the serving cell. In some embodiments, processing circuitry 68 is further configured to configure a plurality of PUCCH resources for Channel State Information (CSI) report configuration in the bandwidth portion of the serving cell.

[0215] According to another aspect, a method is provided in a network node 16 configured to communicate with a WD 22. The method includes configuring multiple transmission resources or multiple sets of transmission opportunities for use by the WD 22 in periodic uplink transmissions configured by Radio Resource Control (RRC). The method also includes determining which configured transmission resources or multiple sets of transmission opportunities the WD 22 uses. The method further includes receiving transmissions from the WD 22 in at least one of the determined multiple transmission resources or multiple sets of transmission opportunities.

[0216] According to this aspect, in some embodiments, the method further includes enabling or disabling one or more of a plurality of transmission resources or a plurality of transmission timings configured for RRC by using explicit signaling. In some embodiments, the explicit signaling is a Media Access Control (MAC) Control Element (CE) or Downlink Control Information (DCI). In some embodiments, transmissions received from WD 22 are associated with a downlink reference signal, which is a direct or indirect spatial relation reference for the received periodic uplink transmissions configured for RRC. In some embodiments, the method includes receiving periodic uplink transmissions configured for RRC from a plurality of WD 22 using the same beamforming filter. In some embodiments, the method further includes configuring time-domain parameters for the periodic uplink transmissions configured for RRC such that all periodic uplink transmissions configured for RRC for a set of WD 22 within the coverage area of ​​the same beam occur within the same time window. In some embodiments, the spatial relation reference for the periodic uplink transmissions configured for RRC is an uplink or downlink reference signal associated with each configured uplink transmission resource or each of the plurality of transmission timings. In some embodiments, the method further includes configuring a plurality of periodic uplink transmission resources for WD 22 for uplink transmission in the bandwidth portion of the serving cell. In some embodiments, the method further includes associating scheduling request configuration with one or more scheduling request resources in the bandwidth portion of the serving cell. In some embodiments, the method further includes configuring a plurality of PUCCH resources for Channel State Information (CSI) reporting configuration in the bandwidth portion of the serving cell.

[0217] According to another aspect, a WD 22 configured to communicate with network node 16 is provided. The wireless device includes a radio interface 82 configured to receive configurations of a plurality of periodic uplink transmission resources via at least one Radio Resource Control (RRC) message. The WD 22 also includes processing circuitry 84 configured to enable or disable a subset of the plurality of periodic uplink transmission resources. The radio interface 82 is configured to transmit uplink transmissions on one or more enabled periodic uplink transmission resources.

[0218] According to this aspect, in some embodiments, a subset of multiple periodic uplink transmission resources to be enabled or disabled is selected, at least in part, based on signals received from network node 16. In some embodiments, the signals include Media Access Control (MAC) control element (CE), Downlink Control Information (DCI) messages, or RRC messages. In some embodiments, the enabled subset of multiple periodic uplink transmission resources is autonomously selected by WD 22. In some embodiments, radio interface 82 is further configured to: receive a first message that associates a spatial relationship between each of the multiple periodic uplink transmission resources with a downlink or uplink reference signal, and transmit a second message on one or more enabled periodic UL transmission resources, including transmission on each UL transmission resource associated with a valid spatial relationship. In some embodiments, the downlink or uplink reference signal is a Synchronization Signal / Physical Broadcast Channel (SS / PBCH), a Channel State Information Reference Signal (CSI-RS) resource, or a Probe Reference Signal (SRS) resource. In some embodiments, disabling based on signals received from the network node includes receiving an indicator of an invalid spatial relationship. In some embodiments, processing circuitry 84 is further configured to determine a subset of multiple periodic uplink transmission resources based at least in part on measurements of multiple downlink signals. In some embodiments, processing circuitry 84 is further configured to determine a signal quality metric for a downlink reference signal, which is a direct or indirect spatial relationship reference for periodic uplink transmissions configured for Radio Resource Control (RRC). In some embodiments, radio interface 82 is further configured to receive an RRC message indicating zero or more periodic uplink transmission resources in a bandwidth portion of the serving cell including WD 22 for shared channel transmissions or uplink control information (UCI) transmissions. In some embodiments, processing circuitry 84 is further configured to enable or disable a subset of the multiple periodic uplink transmission resources according to a bitmap, each bit of the bitmap indicating the enable or disable of a different one of the periodic uplink transmission resources. In some embodiments, the periodic uplink transmission resources among the multiple periodic uplink transmission resources are scheduling request resources for Channel State Information (CSI) reporting, configured grant resources, or physical uplink control channel resources. In some embodiments, a subset of multiple periodic uplink transmission resources is determined at least in part based on measurements of multiple downlink signals.

[0219] According to another aspect, a method is provided in a wireless device WD 22 configured to communicate with a network node 16. The method includes receiving configuration of a plurality of periodic uplink transmission resources via at least one Radio Resource Control (RRC) message. The method also includes enabling or disabling a subset of the plurality of periodic uplink transmission resources. The method further includes transmitting uplink transmissions on one or more enabled periodic uplink transmission resources. In some embodiments, the subset of the plurality of periodic uplink transmission resources to be enabled or disabled is selected based at least in part on signals received from the network node 16. In some embodiments, the signals include a Media Access Control (MAC) control element (CE), a Downlink Control Information (DCI) message, or an RRC message. In some embodiments, the enabled subset of the plurality of periodic uplink transmission resources is autonomously selected by the WD 22. In some embodiments, the method further includes receiving a first message that associates a spatial relationship between each of the plurality of periodic uplink transmission resources with a downlink or uplink reference signal, and transmitting a second message on one or more enabled periodic UL transmission resources, including transmission on each UL transmission resource associated with a valid spatial relationship. In some embodiments, the downlink or uplink reference signal is a synchronization signal / physical broadcast channel (SS / PBCH), a channel state information reference signal (CSI-RS) resource, or a probe reference signal (SRS) resource. In some embodiments, deactivation based on signals received from a network node includes receiving an indicator of an invalid spatial relationship. In some embodiments, the method further includes determining a subset of multiple periodic uplink transmission resources based at least in part on measurements of multiple downlink signals. In some embodiments, the method further includes determining a signal quality metric for a downlink reference signal that is a direct or indirect spatial relationship reference for periodic uplink transmissions configured for Radio Resource Control (RRC). In some embodiments, the method further includes receiving an RRC message indicating zero or more periodic uplink transmission resources in a bandwidth portion of a serving cell including WD 22 for shared channel transmissions or uplink control information (UCI) transmissions. In some embodiments, the method further includes enabling or deactivating a subset of multiple periodic uplink transmission resources according to a bitmap, each bit of the bitmap indicating the enabling or deactivation of a different one of the periodic uplink transmission resources. In some embodiments, the periodic uplink transmission resources among the plurality of periodic uplink transmission resources are scheduling request resources for Channel State Information (CSI) reporting, configured grant resources, or physical uplink control channel resources. In some embodiments, a subset of the plurality of periodic uplink transmission resources is determined at least in part based on measurements of a plurality of downlink signals.

[0220] Some embodiments include the following:

[0221] Example A1. A network node configured to communicate with a wireless device (WD), the network node being configured and / or including a radio interface and / or including processing circuitry, the processing circuitry being configured to:

[0222] Configure multiple transmission resources or multiple transmission opportunities for periodic uplink transmissions configured for radio resource control; and

[0223] Each configured uplink transmission received by the network node from the WD is associated with a downlink reference signal, which is provided as a direct or indirect spatial relation reference for the uplink transmission.

[0224] Example A2. The network node according to Example A1, wherein the network node and / or the processing circuitry and / or the radio interface are configured to further signal the association to the WD.

[0225] Example A3. A network node according to any one of Examples A1 and A2, wherein the network node and / or the processing circuitry and / or the radio interface are further configured to configure the periodic uplink transmission time-domain parameters so that all configured uplink transmissions occur within a specific time window.

[0226] Example A4. A network node according to any one of Examples A1 to A3, wherein the network node and / or the processing circuitry and / or the radio interface are further configured to select one or more of the periodic uplink transmission resources or a set or more transmission opportunities.

[0227] Example A5. A network node according to any one of Examples A1 to A4, wherein the network node and / or the processing circuitry and / or the radio interface are further configured to periodically update the spatial relation reference.

[0228] Example B1. A method implemented in a network node, the method comprising:

[0229] Configure multiple transmission resources or multiple transmission opportunities for periodic uplink transmissions configured for radio resource control; and

[0230] Each configured periodic uplink transmission received by the network node from the WD is associated with a downlink reference signal, which is provided as a direct or indirect spatial relation reference for the uplink transmission.

[0231] Example B2. The method according to Example B1 further includes signaling the association to the WD.

[0232] Example B3. The method according to any one of Examples B1 and B2, the method further comprising configuring time-domain parameters for the periodic uplink transmissions so that all configured uplink transmissions occur within a specific time window.

[0233] Example B4. The method according to any one of Examples B1 to B3, the method further comprising selecting one or more of the periodic uplink transmission resources or a set or more transmission opportunities.

[0234] Example B5. The method according to any one of Examples B1 to B4 further includes periodically updating the spatial relationship reference.

[0235] Example C1. A wireless device (WD) configured to communicate with a network node, the WD being configured and / or including a radio interface and / or processing circuitry, which is configured to:

[0236] Measuring downlink signal quality; and

[0237] Based on the measurements, select one or more configured resources, or periodicity and offset, or timing bitmaps, associated with the downlink reference signal.

[0238] Example C2. The WD according to Example C1, wherein the selection includes selecting a configuration resource, or periodicity and offset, or timing bitmap that causes the measured signal quality to exceed a threshold.

[0239] Example D1. A method implemented in a wireless device (WD), the method comprising:

[0240] Measuring downlink signal quality; and

[0241] Based on the measurements, select one or more configured resources, or periodicity and offset, or timing bitmaps, associated with the downlink reference signal.

[0242] Example D2. The method according to Example D1, wherein the selection includes selecting a configuration resource, or periodicity and offset, or timing bitmap that causes the measured signal quality to exceed a threshold.

[0243] As those skilled in the art will understand, the concepts described herein can be embodied as methods, data processing systems, computer program products, and / or computer storage media storing executable computer programs. Therefore, the concepts described herein can take the form of entirely hardware embodiments, entirely software embodiments, or embodiments combining software and hardware aspects, all collectively referred to herein as “circuit” or “module.” Any process, step, action, and / or function described herein can be performed by and / or associated with a corresponding module, which can be implemented using software and / or firmware and / or hardware. Furthermore, the invention can take the form of a computer program product on a tangible computer-readable storage medium having computer-executable computer program code embodied in the medium. Any suitable tangible computer-readable medium can be utilized, including hard disks, CD-ROMs, electronic storage devices, optical storage devices, or magnetic storage devices.

[0244] This document describes several embodiments with reference to flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams of methods, systems, and computer program products. It will be understood that each block of the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams, and combinations of blocks in the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams, can be implemented by computer program instructions. These computer program instructions can be provided to a processor of a general-purpose computer (thus creating a special-purpose computer), a special-purpose computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such that the instructions, which execute via the processor of the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus, create means for implementing the functions / actions specified in one or more blocks of the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams.

[0245] These computer program instructions may also be stored in a computer-readable storage medium or storage medium that can instruct a computer or other programmable data processing apparatus to operate in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the computer-readable storage medium produce an article of writing including instruction means that implement the functions / actions specified in one or more blocks of a flowchart and / or block diagram.

[0246] Computer program instructions may also be loaded onto a computer or other programmable data processing apparatus to cause a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer or other programmable apparatus to produce a computer-implemented process, such that the instructions, which execute on the computer or other programmable apparatus, provide steps for implementing the functions / actions specified in one or more boxes of a flowchart and / or block diagram.

[0247] It should be understood that the functions / actions marked in the boxes may not occur in the order indicated in the operating instructions. For example, two boxes shown consecutively may actually be executed substantially simultaneously, or these boxes may sometimes be executed in reverse order, depending on the functions / actions involved. Although some diagrams include arrows on the communication path to indicate the main direction of communication, it should be understood that communication may occur in the direction opposite to the arrows shown.

[0248] Computer program code used to perform operations that implement the concepts described in this paper can be written in an object-oriented programming language, such as... Or C++. However, the computer program code used to perform the operations of this invention can also be written in a conventional procedural programming language, such as the "C" programming language. The program code can be executed entirely on the user's computer, partially on the user's computer, as a standalone software package, partially on the user's computer and partially on a remote computer, or entirely on a remote computer. In the latter case, the remote computer can be connected to the user's computer via a local area network (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN), or it can be connected to an external computer (e.g., via the Internet through an Internet service provider).

[0249] In conjunction with the foregoing description and accompanying drawings, numerous different embodiments have been disclosed herein. It should be understood that it would be excessive and confusing to describe and illustrate each combination and sub-combination of these embodiments literally. Therefore, all embodiments can be combined in any manner and / or combination, and this specification (including the accompanying drawings) should be construed as constituting a complete written description of all combinations and sub-combinations of the embodiments described herein, as well as the ways and processes of making and using them, and should support the claims for any such combinations or sub-combinations.

[0250] The abbreviations that may be used in the preceding description include:

[0251] CG Configuration License

[0252] CSI Channel State Information

[0253] DCI Downlink Control Information

[0254] FDM (Frequency Division Multiplexing)

[0255] LTE Long Term Evolution

[0256] NR New Radio

[0257] OFDM (Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing)

[0258] OS OFDM symbol

[0259] PA power amplifier

[0260] PDCCH (Physical Downlink Control Channel)

[0261] PDSCH (Physical Downlink Shared Channel)

[0262] PRB (Physical Resource Block)

[0263] PUCCH (Physical Uplink Control Channel)

[0264] PUSCH Physical Uplink Shared Channel

[0265] RAN (Radio Access Network)

[0266] RB resource block

[0267] SCS Subcarrier Spacing

[0268] SSB synchronization signal and PBCH

[0269] SR scheduling request

[0270] Those skilled in the art will understand that the embodiments described herein are not limited to those specifically shown and described above. Furthermore, unless otherwise stated above, it should be noted that all figures are not drawn to scale. Based on the foregoing teachings, various modifications and variations are possible without departing from the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A network node (16) configured to communicate with a wireless device WD (22), the network node (16) comprising: The processing circuit (68) is configured to: Configure multiple transmission resources or multiple transmission opportunities for the WD (22) to use on the periodic uplink transmission configured by Radio Resource Control (RRC); Each configured uplink transmission resource or each set of transmission opportunities is associated with its respective downlink reference signal, and each downlink reference signal serves as a direct or indirect spatial relationship reference for the periodic uplink transmissions of the RRC configuration received on the associated uplink transmission resource or transmission opportunity. Signal the association to the WD; Configure time-domain parameters for the periodic uplink transmissions configured for the RRC so that the periodic uplink transmissions of all RRCs configured for a group of WDs (22) within the coverage area of ​​the same beam occur within the same time window; as well as Determine which configurations of multiple transmission resources or multiple sets of transmission opportunities the WD (22) uses; as well as The radio interface (62) is configured to receive transmissions from the WD (22) in at least one of a plurality of determined transmission resources or a plurality of sets of transmission opportunities.

2. The network node (16) according to claim 1, wherein the processing circuit (68) is further configured to enable or disable one or more of a plurality of transmission resources or a plurality of transmission opportunities configured by RRC by using explicit signaling.

3. The network node (16) according to claim 2, wherein the explicit signaling is a Media Access Control (MAC) Control Element (CE) or Downlink Control Information (DCI).

4. The network node (16) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the radio interface (62) is further configured to receive periodic uplink transmissions of the RRC configuration from a plurality of WDs (22) using the same beamforming filter.

5. The network node (16) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the spatial relationship reference for the periodic uplink transmission for the RRC configuration is an uplink or downlink reference signal associated with each configured uplink transmission resource among the plurality of transmission resources or each transmission opportunity among the plurality of transmission opportunities.

6. The network node (16) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the processing circuit (68) is further configured to configure a plurality of periodic uplink transmission resources for the WD (22) for uplink transmission in the bandwidth portion of the serving cell.

7. The network node (16) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the processing circuit (68) is further configured to associate a scheduling request with one or more scheduling request resources in the bandwidth portion of the serving cell.

8. The network node (16) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the processing circuit (68) is further configured to configure a plurality of PUCCH resources for channel state information (CSI) report configuration in the bandwidth portion of the serving cell.

9. A method in a network node (16) configured to communicate with a wireless device WD (22), the method comprising: Configure (S142) multiple transmission resources or multiple transmission opportunities for the WD (22) to use on the periodic uplink transmission configured by Radio Resource Control (RRC); Each configured uplink transmission resource or each set of transmission opportunities is associated with its respective downlink reference signal, and each downlink reference signal serves as a direct or indirect spatial relationship reference for the periodic uplink transmissions of the RRC configuration received on the associated uplink transmission resource or transmission opportunity. Signal the association to the WD; Configure time-domain parameters for the periodic uplink transmissions configured for the RRC so that the periodic uplink transmissions of all RRCs configured for a group of WDs (22) within the coverage area of ​​the same beam occur within the same time window; Determine (S144) which configured transmission resources or multiple transmission opportunities the WD (22) uses; as well as Transmission is received from the WD (22) (S146) in at least one of the determined multiple transmission resources or multiple sets of transmission opportunities.

10. The method of claim 9, further comprising enabling or disabling one or more of a plurality of transport resources or a plurality of transport timings configured by RRC through explicit signaling.

11. The method of claim 10, wherein the explicit signaling is a Media Access Control (MAC) Control Element (CE) or Downlink Control Information (DCI).

12. The method according to any one of claims 9 to 11, further comprising receiving periodic uplink transmissions of the RRC configuration from a plurality of WDs (22) using the same beamforming filter.

13. The method according to any one of claims 9 to 11, wherein the spatial relationship reference for the periodic uplink transmission for the RRC configuration is an uplink or downlink reference signal associated with each configured uplink transmission resource among the plurality of transmission resources or each set of transmission opportunities among the plurality of transmission opportunities.

14. The method according to any one of claims 9 to 11, further comprising configuring a plurality of periodic uplink transmission resources for the WD (22) in a bandwidth portion of the serving cell for uplink transmission.

15. The method according to any one of claims 9 to 11, further comprising associating a scheduling request configuration with one or more scheduling request resources in the bandwidth portion of the serving cell.

16. The method according to any one of claims 9 to 11, further comprising configuring a plurality of PUCCH resources for channel state information (CSI) report configuration in the bandwidth portion of the serving cell.

17. A wireless device WD (22) configured to communicate with a network node (16), the wireless device comprising: The radio interface (82) is configured as follows: The configuration of multiple periodic uplink transmission resources is received via at least one Radio Resource Control (RRC) message; Receive a first message, the first message containing the association between each uplink transmission resource or each set of transmission opportunities configured for the WD and a respective downlink reference signal, each downlink reference signal serving as a direct or indirect spatial relationship reference for periodic uplink transmissions of RRC configuration received on the associated uplink transmission resource or transmission opportunity. The configuration of time-domain parameters for periodic uplink transmissions of the RRC configuration is received, the configuration causing periodic uplink transmissions of all RRC configurations of a group of WDs within the coverage area of ​​the same beam to occur within the same time window. as well as The processing circuit (84) is configured to: A subset of the plurality of periodic uplink transmission resources is enabled or disabled, and the radio interface is configured to transmit uplink transmissions on the enabled subset of periodic uplink transmission resources, wherein each periodic uplink transmission resource is associated with an effective spatial relation.

18. The WD (22) of claim 17, wherein the subset of the plurality of periodic uplink transmission resources is selected to be enabled or disabled at least in part based on signals received from the network node (16).

19. The WD (22) according to claim 18, wherein the signal includes a Media Access Control (MAC) control element (CE), a Downlink Control Information (DCI) message, or an RRC message.

20. The WD (22) of claim 17, wherein the enabled subset of the plurality of periodic uplink transmission resources is autonomously selected by the WD (22).

21. The WD (22) according to claim 17, wherein the downlink or uplink reference signal is a synchronization signal / physical broadcast channel SS / PBCH, a channel state information reference signal CSI-RS resource, or a probe reference signal SRS resource.

22. The WD (22) according to any one of claims 17 to 19, wherein deactivation based on signals received from network nodes includes an indicator of receiving invalid spatial relationships.

23. The WD (22) according to any one of claims 17 to 19, wherein the processing circuit (84) is further configured to determine the subset of the plurality of periodic uplink transmission resources based at least in part on measurements of the plurality of downlink signals.

24. The WD (22) according to any one of claims 17 to 19, wherein the processing circuit (84) is further configured to determine a signal quality metric for a downlink reference signal, the downlink reference signal being a direct or indirect spatial relation reference for periodic uplink transmissions configured for Radio Resource Control (RRC).

25. The WD (22) according to any one of claims 17 to 19, wherein the radio interface (82) is further configured to receive an RRC message indicating zero or one periodic uplink transmission resources in a bandwidth portion of the serving cell including the WD (22) for shared channel transmission or uplink control information UCI transmission.

26. The WD (22) according to any one of claims 17 to 19, wherein the processing circuitry (84) is further configured to enable or disable the subset of the plurality of periodic uplink transmission resources according to a bitmap, each bit of the bitmap indicating the enable or disable of a different one of the periodic uplink transmission resources.

27. The WD (22) according to any one of claims 17 to 19, wherein the periodic uplink transmission resource in the plurality of periodic uplink transmission resources is a physical uplink control channel resource, a scheduling request resource, or a configured licensed resource for channel state information (CSI) reporting.

28. The WD (22) of any one of claims 17 to 19, wherein the subset of the plurality of periodic uplink transmission resources is determined at least in part based on measurements of the plurality of downlink signals.

29. A method in a wireless device WD (22) configured to communicate with a network node (16), the method comprising: Configure multiple periodic uplink transmission resources via at least one radio resource control RRC message reception (S148); Receive a first message, the first message containing the association between each uplink transmission resource or each set of transmission opportunities configured for the WD and a respective downlink reference signal, each downlink reference signal serving as a direct or indirect spatial relationship reference for periodic uplink transmissions of RRC configuration received on the associated uplink transmission resource or transmission opportunity. The configuration of time-domain parameters for periodic uplink transmissions of the RRC configuration is received, the configuration causing periodic uplink transmissions of all RRC configurations of a group of WDs within the coverage area of ​​the same beam to occur within the same time window. Enable or disable (S150) a subset of the plurality of periodic uplink transmission resources; as well as Uplink transmissions are sent (S152) on a subset of enabled periodic uplink transmission resources, wherein each periodic uplink transmission resource is associated with an effective spatial relation.

30. The method of claim 29, wherein the subset of the plurality of periodic uplink transmission resources is selected to be enabled or disabled at least in part based on signals received from the network node (16).

31. The method of claim 30, wherein the signal includes a Media Access Control (MAC) control element (CE), a Downlink Control Information (DCI) message, or an RRC message.

32. The method of claim 29, wherein the enabled subset of the plurality of periodic uplink transmission resources is autonomously selected by the WD (22).

33. The method of claim 29, wherein the downlink or uplink reference signal is a synchronization signal / physical broadcast channel SS / PBCH, a channel state information reference signal CSI-RS resource, or a probe reference signal SRS resource.

34. The method according to any one of claims 29 to 31, wherein deactivation based on signals received from network nodes includes receiving an indicator of invalid spatial relationships.

35. The method of any one of claims 29 to 31, further comprising determining the subset of the plurality of periodic uplink transmission resources based at least in part on measurements of the plurality of downlink signals.

36. The method according to any one of claims 29 to 31, further comprising determining a signal quality metric for a downlink reference signal, said downlink reference signal being a direct or indirect spatial relation reference for periodic uplink transmissions used for Radio Resource Control (RRC) configuration.

37. The method according to any one of claims 29 to 31, further comprising receiving an RRC message indicating zero or one periodic uplink transmission resources in a bandwidth portion of the serving cell including the WD (22) for shared channel transmission or uplink control information (UCI) transmission.

38. The method of any one of claims 29 to 31, further comprising enabling or disabling the subset of the plurality of periodic uplink transmission resources according to a bitmap, each bit of the bitmap indicating the enabling or disabling of a different one of the periodic uplink transmission resources.

39. The method according to any one of claims 29 to 31, wherein the periodic uplink transmission resource among the plurality of periodic uplink transmission resources is a physical uplink control channel resource, a scheduling request resource, or a configured licensed resource for channel state information (CSI) reporting.

40. The method of any one of claims 29 to 31, wherein the subset of the plurality of periodic uplink transmission resources is determined at least in part based on measurements of the plurality of downlink signals.

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