Wireless base station, terminal, and communication method

Abstract

The radio base station performs a channel access procedure in a second frequency band different from the first frequency band allocated for mobile communication. The radio base station sets parameters for each beam applied to the channel access procedure.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a wireless base station and a terminal that perform wireless communication, and particularly relates to a wireless base station and a terminal that use an unlicensed band. BACKGROUND

[0002] In the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP), the 5th generation mobile communication system (5G) (also referred to as 5G, New Radio (NR), or Next Generation (NG)) is being standardized, and the standardization of the next generation, which is called Beyond 5G, 5G Evolution, or 6G, is also being conducted.

[0003] In Release 15 and Release 16 of 3GPP (NR), the operation of the band including a plurality of frequency ranges, specifically, FR1 (410 MHz to 7.125 GHz) and FR2 (24.25 GHz to 52.6 GHz) is being standardized.

[0004] Further, regarding NR supporting more than 52.6 GHz up to 71 GHz, research is also being promoted (Non-Patent Literature 1). Among them, a channel access procedure that complies with the restrictions (execution of Listen-Before-Talk (LBT), etc.) applied to the unlicensed spectrum in the band of 52.6 GHz to 71 GHz is being researched.

[0005] Further, regarding New Radio-Unlicensed (NR-U) that uses such unlicensed (unlicensed) band spectrum to expand the available band, in Release 16 of 3GPP, sharing based on the channel occupancy time (COT) of the wireless base station (gNB) and the terminal (User Equipment: UE) is specified (Non-Patent Literature 2).

[0006] In COT sharing, there are some restrictions on the transmission period, the type of transmitted signal / channel, the priority class, and the like.

[0007] PRIOR ART DOCUMENTS

[0008] NON-PATENT LITERATURE

[0009] Non-patent document 1: "New SID: Study on supporting NR from 52.6GHz to 71GHz", RP-193259, 3GPP TSG RAN Meeting #86, 3GPP, December 2019

[0010] Non-patent document 2: 3GPP TS 37.213V16.1.0, 3rd Generation Partnership Project; Technical Specification Group Radio Access Network; Physical layer procedures for shared spectrum channel access (Release 16), 3GPP, March 2020 Summary of the Invention

[0011] In high-frequency bands such as 52.6 GHz to 71 GHz, massive antennas with multiple antenna elements are required to generate narrower beams in order to cope with the wider bandwidth and greater propagation loss.

[0012] Therefore, for LBT (Clear Channel Assessment) which involves the gNB performing carrier sensing before starting transmission through the unlicensed frequency band and only being able to transmit for a predetermined time length after confirming that the channel is not being used by other nearby systems, it is considered that multiple beam-based directional LBT / CCA (also known as beam-based LBT / CCA) is also required.

[0013] However, COT sharing is based on the premise of the same beam (directivity). When multiple beams with different directions are used, the gNB and UE need to have a common understanding of the beam (directivity) applied to the Directional LBT / CCA for the downlink (DL).

[0014] Furthermore, when performing Directional LBT / CCA on a single beam, the same Directional LBT / CCA needs to be performed repeatedly to support multiple beams, which leads to increased overhead related to LBT and other issues that hinder efficiency.

[0015] Therefore, the following disclosure is made in view of the situation and its purpose is to provide a wireless base station and terminal that can efficiently and reliably perform DL Directional LBT / CCA even when using multiple beams with different directions.

[0016] One aspect of this disclosure is a wireless base station (e.g., gNB 100A) having a control unit (control unit 270) that performs a channel access procedure in a second frequency band different from a first frequency band allocated for mobile communication, the control unit setting parameters for each beam applied to the channel access procedure.

[0017] One aspect of this disclosure is a terminal (UE 200) having a control unit (control unit 270) that performs wireless communication in a second frequency band different from a first frequency band allocated for mobile communication. The control unit assumes, during the channel occupancy time following a channel access procedure performed by a wireless base station, a signal or channel with the same virtual co-location as the synchronization signal block or reference signal indicated by downlink control information.

[0018] One aspect of this disclosure is a terminal (UE 200) having a control unit (control unit 270) that performs wireless communication in a second frequency band different from a first frequency band allocated for mobile communication, and that the control unit assumes a signal or channel associated with a synchronization signal block or reference signal indicated by downlink control information during the channel occupancy time following a channel access procedure performed by a wireless base station. Attached Figure Description

[0019] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the wireless communication system 10.

[0020] Figure 2 This is a diagram showing the frequency range used in the wireless communication system 10.

[0021] Figure 3 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the structure of wireless frames, subframes, and time slots used in the wireless communication system 10.

[0022] Figure 4 This is the function block structure diagram of gNB 100A and UE 200.

[0023] Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating a structural example of a COT dominated by gNB.

[0024] Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the execution of a channel access procedure based on LBE and FBE.

[0025] Figure 7AThis is a diagram illustrating an example of the structure of an existing Directional LBT / CCA.

[0026] Figure 7B This is a diagram illustrating an existing COT-shared structure example (1).

[0027] Figure 7C This is a diagram illustrating an existing COT-shared structure example (2).

[0028] Figure 8 This is a diagram illustrating the structure of the SSB and CSI-RS in Action Example 1.

[0029] Figure 9A This is a diagram showing the structure example (TDM) of the Directional-LBT in Action Example 2-1.

[0030] Figure 9B This is a diagram showing the structure example (FDM) of the Directional-LBT in Action Example 2-1.

[0031] Figure 9C This is a diagram showing the structure example (SDM) of the Directional-LBT in Action Example 2-1.

[0032] Figure 10A This is a diagram showing the structure example (CSI-RS beam) of the Directional-LBT in Operation Example 2-2.

[0033] Figure 10B This is a diagram showing the structure example (SSB beam) of the Directional-LBT in Operation Example 2-2.

[0034] Figure 11 This is a diagram illustrating the structure of the RS / beam used in the Directional-LBT for Operation Example 2-2 (a modified example of Option 2).

[0035] Figure 12A This is a diagram showing the structure of the Directional-LBT in Action Example 3 (corresponding to Action Example 2-1).

[0036] Figure 12B This is a diagram showing the structure of the Directional-LBT in Action Example 3 (corresponding to Action Example 2-2).

[0037] Figure 13 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the hardware structure of gNB 100A, gNB 100B, and UE 200. Detailed Implementation

[0038] The embodiments will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, the same or similar reference numerals will be used for the same functions and structures, and their descriptions will be omitted where appropriate.

[0039] (1) Overall general structure of wireless communication system

[0040] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the wireless communication system 10 in this embodiment. The wireless communication system 10 is a wireless communication system that follows 5G New Radio (NR) and includes a Next Generation Radio Access Network 20 (hereinafter referred to as NG-RAN 20) and a terminal 200 (hereinafter referred to as UE 200).

[0041] Alternatively, the wireless communication system 10 can also be a wireless communication system that follows a protocol known as Beyond 5G, 5G Evolution, or 6G.

[0042] NG-RAN 20 includes radio base station 100A (hereinafter referred to as gNB 100A) and radio base station 100B (hereinafter referred to as gNB 100B). Furthermore, the specific structure of the wireless communication system 10, which includes gNBs and UEs, is not limited to... Figure 1 The example shown.

[0043] NG-RAN 20 actually contains multiple NG-RAN nodes, specifically multiple gNBs (or ng-eNBs), connected to a 5G-compliant core network (5GC, not shown). Additionally, NG-RAN 20 and 5GC can be simply referred to as a "network".

[0044] gNB 100A and gNB 100B are 5G-compliant radio base stations that perform 5G-compliant wireless communication with UE 200. gNB100A, gNB 100B, and UE 200 can support Massive MIMO (Multiple Input Multiple Output) which generates more directional beams BM by controlling radio signals transmitted from multiple antenna elements, carrier aggregation (CA) which uses multiple component carriers (CC), and dual connectivity (DC) which allows simultaneous communication between the UE and two NG-RAN nodes.

[0045] In addition, the wireless communication system 10 supports multiple frequency ranges (FRs). Figure 2 The frequency range used in the wireless communication system 10 is shown.

[0046] like Figure 2As shown, the wireless communication system 10 supports FR1 and FR2. The frequency bands of each FR are described below.

[0047] FR1: 410MHz~7.125GHz

[0048] FR2: 24.25GHz~52.6GHz

[0049] In FR1, a sub-carrier spacing (SCS) of 15, 30, or 60 kHz can be used, with a bandwidth (BW) of 5–100 MHz. FR2 operates at a higher frequency than FR1, and can use an SCS of 60 or 120 kHz (which may also include 240 kHz), with a bandwidth (BW) of 50–400 MHz.

[0050] Alternatively, SCS can also be interpreted as a parameter set (numerology). The parameter set is defined in 3GPP TS38.300 and corresponds to a subcarrier spacing in the frequency domain.

[0051] Furthermore, the wireless communication system 10 also supports frequency bands higher than FR2. Specifically, the wireless communication system 10 supports frequency bands exceeding 52.6 GHz up to 71 GHz. Here, for convenience, such high-frequency bands are referred to as "FR2x".

[0052] To address this issue, when using a band domain exceeding 52.6 GHz, it is possible to apply Cyclic Prefix-Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (CP-OFDM) / Discrete Fourier Transform-Spread OFDM (DFT-S-OFDM) with larger sub-carrier spacing (SCS).

[0053] Figure 3 An example of the structure of wireless frames, subframes and time slots used in wireless communication system 10 is shown.

[0054] like Figure 3 As shown, one time slot consists of 14 symbols. The larger (wider) the SCS, the shorter the symbol period (and time slot period). SCS is not limited to... Figure 3 The intervals (frequency) shown. For example, 480kHz, 960kHz, etc. can be used.

[0055] Furthermore, the number of symbols constituting one time slot does not necessarily have to be 14 symbols (e.g., 28, 56 symbols). Also, the number of time slots in each subframe can vary depending on the SCS.

[0056] in addition, Figure 3 The time direction (t) shown can also be referred to as the time domain, symbol period, or symbol time, etc. Furthermore, the frequency direction can also be referred to as the frequency domain, resource block, subcarrier, bandwidth part (BWP), etc.

[0057] Furthermore, in the wireless communication system 10, in addition to the frequency band allocated to the wireless communication system 10 for mobile communication, an unlicensed frequency band Fu, different from that frequency band, is also used. Specifically, in the wireless communication system 10, it is possible to implement New Radio-Unlicensed (NR-U) to extend the available frequency band using the spectrum of the unlicensed (unlicensed) frequency band. NR-U can also be interpreted as a type of Licensed-Assisted Access (LAA).

[0058] The frequency band allocated to the wireless communication system 10 refers to the frequency band included in the aforementioned FR1 and FR2 frequency ranges and allocated based on administrative licenses.

[0059] Unlicensed frequency bands (FU) refer to frequency bands that do not require administrative licensing and can be used without being restricted to a specific telecommunications operator. Examples include frequency bands used for wireless LANs (WLANs) (such as the 2.4GHz, 5GHz, or 60GHz bands).

[0060] In unlicensed frequency bands, it is possible to set up wireless stations without being limited to specific communication operators, but it is undesirable for signals from nearby wireless stations to interfere with each other and cause a significant deterioration in communication performance.

[0061] Therefore, for example, in Japan, as a requirement for wireless systems using unlicensed frequency bands (e.g., the 5GHz band), a Listen-Before-Talk (LBT) mechanism is applied, whereby the gNB 100A performs carrier sensing before transmission begins and can only transmit for a predetermined duration if it is confirmed that the channel is not being used by other nearby systems. Furthermore, carrier sensing refers to the technique of confirming whether a frequency carrier is not being used by other communications before transmitting radio waves.

[0062] Additionally, LBT can include Directional LBT / CCA (Directional LBT / Clear Channel Assessment) using multiple beams BM with different pointing directions.

[0063] In NR-U, the LBT sub-band can be set within the unlicensed frequency band Fu, and can be described as a confirmation band within the unlicensed frequency band Fu for determining whether it is utilized. The LBT sub-band can be, for example, 20MHz, half of 10MHz, or a quarter of 5MHz, etc.

[0064] Furthermore, even in initial access in NR-U, the Synchronization Signal Block (SSB) is used in the same way as in 3GPP version 15.

[0065] The SSB consists of a synchronization signal (SS) and a downlink physical broadcast channel (PBCH).

[0066] The SS consists of the primary synchronization signal (PSS) and the secondary synchronization signal (SSS).

[0067] PSS is a known signal that the UE 200 initially attempts to detect during cell search. SSS is a known signal sent during cell search to detect the physical cell ID.

[0068] The PBCH contains the Radio Frame Number (SFN) and indexes used to identify the symbol positions of multiple SS / PBCH blocks within a half-frame (5 milliseconds), as well as the information required for the UE 200 to establish frame synchronization with the NR cell formed by gNB 100A after detecting an SS / PBCH block.

[0069] In addition, the PBCH may also contain system parameters required for receiving system information (SIB). Furthermore, the SSB also contains a broadcast channel demultiplexing reference signal (DMRS for PBCH). DMRS for PBCH is a known signal transmitted to measure the radio channel state during PBCH demultiplexing.

[0070] The terminal assumes that each SSB is associated with a different beam BM. That is, the terminal assumes that each SSB is associated with a beam BM with a different transmission direction (coverage range) (assuming virtual co-location). Thus, UE 200 camped in the NR cell receives any beam BM, acquires an SSB, and begins initial access and SSB detection / measurement.

[0071] Virtual co-location (QCL) refers to a situation where the characteristics of the channel transmitting symbols on one antenna port can be inferred from the channel transmitting symbols on another antenna port, assuming that the two antenna ports are virtually in the same location. QCL can also be called quasi-co-location.

[0072] In addition, the transmission mode of SSB can vary depending on SCS, frequency range (FR) or other parameters.

[0073] (2) Functional block structure of wireless communication system

[0074] Next, the functional block structure of the wireless communication system 10 will be described. Specifically, the functional block structures of gNB 100A and UE 200 will be described.

[0075] Figure 4 This is the function block structure diagram of gNB 100A and UE 200. (Example) Figure 4 As shown, gNB 100A and UE 200 can have the same function blocks. Furthermore, gNB 100B can also have the same function block structure as gNB 100A.

[0076] (2.1) gNB 100A

[0077] like Figure 4 As shown, the gNB 100A includes a wireless signal transceiver unit 210, an amplifier unit 220, a modem unit 230, a control signal / reference signal processing unit 240, an encoder / decoder unit 250, a data transceiver unit 260, and a control unit 270.

[0078] The radio transceiver unit 210 transmits and receives radio signals that comply with NR. The radio transceiver unit 210 supports massive MIMO, CA that uses multiple CCs together, and DC that allows the UE to communicate simultaneously with two NG-RAN nodes.

[0079] The amplification unit 220 is composed of a power amplifier (PA) or a low-noise amplifier (LNA). The amplification unit 220 amplifies the signal output from the modem 230 to a predetermined power level. Furthermore, the amplification unit 220 amplifies the RF signal output from the wireless transceiver unit 210.

[0080] The modem 230 performs data modulation / demodulation, transmit power setting, and resource block allocation for each predetermined communication target (UE 200). The modem 230 can apply Cyclic Prefix-Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing / Discrete Fourier Transform-Spread OFDM (CP-OFDM / DFT-S-OFDM). Furthermore, DFT-S-OFDM can be used not only for the uplink (UL) but also for the downlink (DL).

[0081] The control signal and reference signal processing unit 240 performs processing related to various control signals transmitted and received by the gNB 100A, as well as processing related to various reference signals transmitted and received by the gNB 100A.

[0082] Specifically, the control signal / reference signal processing unit 240 transmits various control signals, such as Radio Resource Control (RRC) control signals, to the UE 200 via a predetermined control channel. Furthermore, the control signal / reference signal processing unit 240 can receive various control signals from the UE 200 via the predetermined control channel.

[0083] The control signal and reference signal processing unit 240 performs processing using reference signals (RS) such as demodulation reference signal (DMRS) and phase tracking reference signal (PTRS).

[0084] DMRS is a terminal-specific reference signal (pilot signal) used to estimate fading channels used in data demodulation between the base station and the terminal. PTRS is a terminal-specific reference signal used to estimate phase noise, which is an issue in the high-frequency band.

[0085] In addition to DMRS and PTRS, the reference signal may also include Channel State Information-Reference Signal (CSI-RS), Sounding Reference Signal (SRS), and Positioning Reference Signal (PRS) for location information.

[0086] In addition, the channels include control channels and data channels. The control channels include PDCCH (Physical Downlink Control Channel), PUCCH (Physical Uplink Control Channel), RACH (Downlink Control Information including Random Access Channel and Random Access Radio Network Temporary Identifier (RA-RNTI)), and PBCH (Physical Broadcast Channel), etc.

[0087] Data channels include PDSCH (Physical Downlink Shared Channel) and PUSCH (Physical Uplink Shared Channel). Data refers to data transmitted via data channels. Data channels can also be replaced by shared channels.

[0088] Furthermore, regarding NR-U, a channel can refer to a carrier or part of a carrier consisting of a set of consecutive resource blocks (RBs) that performs channel access procedures in a shared spectrum.

[0089] The channel access process can be interpreted as a monitoring process based on evaluating the availability of the channel used for transmission. Furthermore, the basic unit of monitoring can be defined as a monitoring time slot with a predetermined duration.

[0090] During a listening slot, gNB 100A (or gNB 100B, hereinafter the same) or UE 200 can detect the channel. If the detected power is at least less than the energy detection threshold, it is considered idle; otherwise, it is considered busy during the listening slot.

[0091] In addition, "channel occupancy" refers to the transmission on the channel performed by the gNB (or eNB) / UE after the corresponding channel access procedure has been executed.

[0092] "Channel Occupancy Time (COT)" refers to the total time that a gNB / UE and any other gNB / UE spends transmitting on the channel after the gNB / UE has completed the corresponding channel access procedure. Channel occupancy time can be shared for transmissions between the gNB and the corresponding UE.

[0093] A DL transmission burst can be defined as a set of transmissions from a gNB. A DL transmission burst with a gap larger than the predetermined transmission gap can be considered a dedicated DL transmission burst.

[0094] An uplink (UL) transmission burst can be defined as a set of transmissions from the UE. A UL transmission burst with a gap larger than the predetermined transmission gap can be considered a dedicated UL transmission burst.

[0095] A discovery burst can be defined as a DL transmission burst that is confined within a predetermined window and contains a set of signals or channels associated with a duty cycle.

[0096] As a burst detection, any of the following transmissions can be specified starting from the gNB.

[0097] • Master Synchronization Signal (PSS)

[0098] • Secondary Synchronization Signal (SSS)

[0099] Downlink Physical Broadcast Channel (PBCH)

[0100] • The PDCCH that schedules PDSCH uses CORESET (control resource sets).

[0101] • PDSCH for transmitting SIB1 and / or non-zero power CSI-RS

[0102] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the control signal / reference signal processing unit 240 is capable of sending beam information indicating that the channel access procedure has been successfully completed to the UE 200. In this embodiment, the control signal / reference signal processing unit 240 constitutes a transmitting unit.

[0103] Specifically, the control signal / reference signal processing unit 240 can send information to the UE 200 about the beam BM that identifies a successful channel access procedure (which can also be interpreted as LBT / CCA) as channel occupancy time (COT). The beam information can be sent by downlink control information (DCI) or by signaling from higher layers (e.g., RRC).

[0104] In the case of DCI, the fields used for transmitting beam information can be appended to DCI format 2_0 (DCI format 2_0), which is used as a time slot format notification for a group of multiple UE 200s.

[0105] The encoding / decoding unit 250 can perform data segmentation / linking and channel encoding / decoding according to each predetermined communication target (UE 200).

[0106] Specifically, the encoding / decoding unit 250 segments the data output from the data transceiver unit 260 into predetermined sizes and performs channel coding on the segmented data. Furthermore, the encoding / decoding unit 250 decodes the data output from the modulation / demodulation unit 230 and concatenates the decoded data.

[0107] The data transceiver unit 260 performs the transmission and reception of Protocol Data Units (PDUs) and Service Data Units (SDUs). Specifically, the data transceiver unit 260 performs the assembly / disassembly of PDUs / SDUs at multiple layers (such as the Medium Access Control (MAC), Radio Link Control (RLC), and Packet Data Convergence Protocol (PDCP) layers). Furthermore, the data transceiver unit 260 performs error correction and retransmission control based on Hybrid Automatic Repeat Requests (HARQs).

[0108] The control unit 270 controls each functional block constituting the gNB 100A. In particular, in this embodiment, the control unit 270 performs control related to NR-U.

[0109] Specifically, the control unit 270 performs a channel access procedure to access the channel defined in the NR-U mentioned above.

[0110] The channel access procedure is specified in 3GPP TS 37.213. The control unit 270 can perform the channel access procedure in a frequency band (second band) different from the frequency band (first band) allocated to the wireless communication system 10 (for mobile communication). Specifically, the control unit 270 can perform the channel access procedure in the unlicensed frequency band Fu.

[0111] The channel access procedure performed by gNB 100A can be referred to as a downlink (DL) channel access procedure. Furthermore, the DL channel access procedure can be included in the Type 1, Type 2A, Type 2B, and Type 2C DL channel access procedures specified in 3GPP TS 37.213 Chapter 4.1.

[0112] The control unit 270 can set parameters for each beam (BM) applied to the channel access process. Specifically, the control unit 270 can set parameters related to the Directional LBT / CCA (e.g., energy detection threshold). In addition to the energy detection threshold, these parameters may also include parameters related to the transmission period, the type of transmission signal / channel, priority level, etc.

[0113] The control unit 270 can use at least one of spatial division multiplexing (SDM), frequency division multiplexing (FDM), or time division multiplexing (TDM) to perform one or more channel access procedures. Specifically, the control unit 270 can use SDM, FDM, or TDM to perform channel access procedures that simultaneously use multiple beams (BMs).

[0114] Additionally, the use of beam BM here can refer to measuring the presence or absence of interference by transmitting beam BM in different directions and by adjusting the directivity of the antenna panel to use a beam BM pointed in a specific direction.

[0115] Furthermore, during the Channel Occupancy Time (COT), the control unit 270 can simultaneously execute multiple channel access procedures using multiple beams (BM). For example, the control unit 270 can simultaneously execute a channel access procedure using multiple CSI-RS (which can be replaced by a Directional LBT), or it can simultaneously execute a Directional LBT / CCA using multiple SSBs.

[0116] In addition, COT can be either a COT initiated by the gNB (gNB-initiatedCOT: gNB-initiated COT) or a COT initiated by the UE (UE-initiatedCOT: UE-initiated COT).

[0117] (2.2)UE 200

[0118] In the case of UE 200, the above function description of gNB 100A can be replaced with the function of UE 200, namely the function description of performing UL transmission and DL reception.

[0119] In particular, in this embodiment, the control unit 270 of the UE 200 is capable of performing wireless communication in the unlicensed frequency band Fu.

[0120] Specifically, the control unit 270 may assume, during the channel occupancy time (COT) after the channel access process performed by the gNB 100A (or gNB 100B, hereinafter the same), a signal or channel with the same QCL as the synchronization signal block or reference signal shown by the DCI.

[0121] More specifically, the control unit 270 may assume, in the DL transmission within the COT, a DL signal (or reference signal) or channel (e.g., SSB, CSI-RS, PDCCH, PDSCH) having a QCL that is “the same as the SSB or reference signal (e.g., CSI-RS) shown by the DCI format 2_0 for the group of timeslot format notifications for multiple UEs 200”.

[0122] Furthermore, the control unit 270 can assume a signal or channel associated with the synchronization signal block or reference signal shown by the DCI during the channel occupancy time (COT) after the channel access process performed by the gNB 100A.

[0123] Specifically, the control unit 270 may assume, in UL transmission within the COT (which may be replaced by UE transmission), only UL signals (or reference signals) or channels (e.g., SRS, PUCCH, PUSCH) that have the same spatial relation as the index of SSB or CSI-RS shown by the DCI.

[0124] Alternatively, the control unit 270 can associate the spatial relationship of the SRS related to the UL signal or channel with the index of the SSB or CSI-RS shown by the DCI.

[0125] (3) Operation of wireless communication system

[0126] Next, the operation of the wireless communication system 10 will be explained. Specifically, the operation of gNB 100A (or gNB 100B, hereinafter the same) and UE 200 related to the channel access procedure (Directional LBT / CCA) of DL using multiple beams BM will be explained.

[0127] Furthermore, the Directional LBT / CCA of this embodiment is particularly preferred for use in high-frequency bands such as FR2x.

[0128] (3.1) Prerequisites

[0129] In either the licensed frequency bands FR1 and FR2 or the unlicensed frequency bands Fu used for mobile communication, multiple beams BM with different directions (directivity) associated with a maximum of 64 SSBs can be supported.

[0130] Furthermore, as mentioned above, in order to achieve channel access that complies with LBT / CCA in the unlicensed frequency band Fu, a Directional LBT / CCA (also known as Beam-based LBT / CCA), i.e., a channel access process using multiple beams BM, can be applied.

[0131] In 3GPP Release 16 NR-U, Channel Occupancy Time (COT) sharing between gNB 100A and UE 200 is permitted under certain restrictions. These restrictions include, for example, the transmission period, the type of transmitted signal / channel, and the priority level.

[0132] Regarding the duration of COT (the structure of COT (available LBT subbands, COT length), it can be shown using DCI format 2_0 for UE 200 groups.

[0133] Figure 5 This illustrates a structural example of a COT dominated by gNB. For example... Figure 5 As shown, the structure of "Channel Occupancy" (CO) can be communicated to UE 200 using DCI format 2_0. Figure 5 In the example shown, LBT is performed in multiple LBT subbands, and after the LBT, COT (gNB-initiated COT) is set.

[0134] When availableRB-SetPerCell-r16 is set as a parameter for the high-level (RRC), this parameter can be expressed, for example, as follows.

[0135] ·Available RB set Indicator 1, Available RB set Indicator 2, ..., Available RB set Indicator N1,

[0136] Furthermore, when CO-DurationPerCell-r16 is set as a parameter for high-level (RRC), this parameter can be expressed, for example, as follows.

[0137] ·COT duration indicator 1, COT duration indicator 2,..., COT durationindicator N2.

[0138] Figure 6 An example of a channel access procedure based on LBE and FBE is shown. Specifically, Figure 6 Examples of channel access procedures (LBT / CCA) based on LBE (Load Based Equipment) and FBE (Frame Based Equipment), and COT after such channel access procedures are shown.

[0139] LBE and FBE differ in the frames used for transmission and reception, as well as the structure of COT.

[0140] Regarding FBE, the timing of transmit and receive operations associated with LBT is fixed. Regarding LBE, the timing of transmit and receive operations associated with LBT is not fixed, allowing LBT to be executed flexibly as needed. In the case of LBE, a rollback time is set to avoid conflicts.

[0141] exist Figure 6 In the LBE example shown, multiple channel access procedures are performed over time, and a contention window size (CWS) corresponding to the length of the COT can be set. Furthermore, to prevent collisions, transmission is not permitted until the backoff time expires (the backoff counter reaches 0). Additionally, as... Figure 6 As shown, it is possible to set the COT (gNB-initiated COT) after the channel access procedure initiated by the gNB and the COT (UE-initiated COT) after the channel access procedure initiated by the UE.

[0142] On the other hand, Figure 6In the example of FBE shown, multiple channel access procedures are also performed over time. However, the timing of transmit and receive associated with LBT follows a fixed frame period (FFP), which is constant.

[0143] Furthermore, when using high-frequency bands such as FR2x, especially to cope with the wider bandwidth and greater propagation loss, it is envisioned to apply a Directional LBT (Beam-based LBT / CCA) using multiple beams (BMs) with different directions. This would improve the success rate of channel access even in high-frequency bands such as FR2x.

[0144] However, to achieve such Directional LBT / CCA, there is a problem with NR-U in 3GPP version 16 as follows. Specifically, regarding LBT and transmission direction, the gNB and UE need to be in agreement, but there is no method to achieve such agreement (Problem 1).

[0145] Furthermore, since only one Directional LBT / CCA can be performed at a time, when it is desired to implement a Directional LBT / CCA using multiple beams (BMs), there are problems such as increased LBT-related overhead, which hinders efficiency (Problem 2). After this LBT, since only one beam (BM) can be transmitted, beam sweeping, which is related to multicast and / or broadcast signals (e.g., SSB, CSI-RS), is inefficient. Moreover, COT sharing can only be applied to the same beam (BM) / direction.

[0146] Figure 7A An example of the existing Directional LBT / CCA structure is shown. Figure 7B and Figure 7C This shows an example of an existing COTsharing structure.

[0147] like Figure 7A As shown, after one LBT, only one beam BM of the same type (direction) can be transmitted (the same applies below), thus the efficiency is low and the overhead associated with LBT is increased.

[0148] In addition, such as Figure 7B and Figure 7C As shown, when the same beam BM is shared only in DL and UL, the overhead associated with LBT also increases. Additionally, Figure 7B This illustrates an example of COT sharing from DL to UL (UL preferred). Figure 7CThis shows an example of COT sharing (DL priority) from UL to DL.

[0149] (3.2) Action Summary

[0150] The following describes action examples 1 to 3 for resolving the problems related to the existing Directional LBT / CCA. A summary of action examples 1 to 3 is provided below.

[0151] • (Action Example 1): Related to the definition and parameters of Directional LBT / CCA

[0152] • (Action Example 2): Related to support for Directional LBT / CCA using multiple beams

[0153] Additionally, in action example 2, the following options can be applied.

[0154] • (Option 1): Multi-directional LBT using SDM, TDM, or FDM

[0155] • (Option 2): The Directional LBT / CCA obtained by combining the new parameters indicates the LBT using multiple beams.

[0156] • (Action Example 3): Related to the indication of multiple beams used in the Directional LBT / CCA corresponding to COT.

[0157] (3.3) Example 1 of the action

[0158] In this example, different beams (or beamwidths), in other words, parameters related to LBT and / or CCA for SSB, CSI-RS, can vary according to each Directional LBT / CCA.

[0159] Regarding this parameter, typically, as mentioned above, the energy detection threshold can be listed, but it is not limited to this. For example, parameters related to the transmission period, the type of transmitted signal / channel, priority level, etc., may also be included.

[0160] The energy detection threshold in this example can be the same as the energy detection threshold specified in 3GPP TS36.21315.1.4, etc. In this case, the parameters specified in the energy detection threshold adaptation procedure of 3GPP TS36.21315.1.4 can be set to different values ​​for omni-LBT and directional LBT with different beams (and / or beamwidths, the same below). Alternatively, scaling factors can be added for at least some of the parameters to perform directional-LBT with different beams.

[0161] In the case of SSB-based Directional LBT / CCA, the parameters associated with the LBT (e.g., energy detection threshold) are predefined by 3GPP specifications, for example, based on the frequency range (FR) and the structure of the SSB (e.g., the largest SSB (beam) number).

[0162] To provide a more concrete example, it is possible to use the equation for the CCA threshold defined by 3GPP TS 36.213 and apply different values ​​to at least some of the parameters related to the Directional LBT / CCA using different beams. Furthermore, scaling coefficients can be added to at least some of the parameters according to the equation for the CCA threshold defined by 3GPP TS 36.213 to perform Directional-LBT with different beams.

[0163] On the other hand, in the case of CSI-RS-based Directional LBT / CCA, the parameters related to the LBT (e.g., energy detection threshold) can be determined by any of the following.

[0164] • (Alt 1): Predefined by 3GPP specifications.

[0165] The frequency range (FR) and the structure of the CSI-RS (e.g., the largest CSI-RS (beam) number) can be predefined similarly. Furthermore, similar to the SSB, the equation for the CCA threshold defined by 3GPP TS 36.213 can be used, and different values ​​can be applied to at least some of the parameters related to the use of different beams in the Directional LBT / CCA. Scaling coefficients can be added to these parameters to perform Directional-LBT with different beams.

[0166] • (Alt 2): Calculated based on parameters related to the SSB-based Directional LBT / CCA (associated with QCL-type D) that comply with CSI-RS settings (e.g., maximum CSI-RS beam number and maximum CSI-RS beam number with QCL-type D associated with SSB).

[0167] • (Alt 3): Not supported. That is, only SSB-based Directional LBT / CCA is supported.

[0168] In addition, the QCL type is specified in Chapter 5.1.5 of 3GPP TS38.214 as follows.

[0169] • QCL-Type A: {Doppler shift, Doppler spread, average delay, delay spread}

[0170] • QCL-Type B: {Doppler shift, Doppler spread}

[0171] • QCL-type C: {Doppler shift, average delay}

[0172] • QCL-type D: {Spatial Rx parameter}

[0173] Figure 8 The structure of SSB and CSI-RS in Action Example 1 is shown. Figure 8 In this context, CSI-RS#1 to #4 are associated with SSB#1 and are QCL-type D.

[0174] Furthermore, the energy detection threshold used for Directional LBT / CCA based on CSI-RS#1 to #4 can be predefined by 3GPP specifications, calculated based on the threshold used for Directional LBT / CCA based on SSB#1, or not supported.

[0175] (3.4) Example 2 of the action

[0176] In this action example, the actions according to option 1 and option 2 above will be explained respectively.

[0177] (3.4.1) Action Example 2-1

[0178] In Option 1, SDM, TDM, or FDM can be applied to perform one or more Directional-LBTs (SSB- or CSI-RS-based LBTs) for CCA. In this case, transmission after CCA can only be performed with respect to the beam direction where the LBT has been successful (i.e., only interference below the energy detection threshold has been detected).

[0179] In LBT_idle (see reference) Figure 6 The beams used for SSB / CSI-RS / PDCCH / PDSCH transmitted afterward can have the same QCL-type D (Spatial Rxparameter) as the beams of the Directional-LBT based on SSB / CSI-RS.

[0180] In addition, SDM, TDM or FDM can also be applied in COT for SSB / CSI-RS / PDCCH / PDSCH sent after LBT_idle.

[0181] Figure 9A , Figure 9B and Figure 9C This illustrates a structural example of the Directional-LBT in Action Example 2-1. Specifically, Figure 9A , Figure 9B and Figure 9C Examples of Directional-LBT structures applying TDM, FDM, and SDM are shown respectively.

[0182] like Figure 9A As shown, in an LBT_busy beam (i.e., a beam with interference and LBT failure), transmission (TX) may not be performed. Figure 9A In this system, multiple beams are multiplexed in a time-division manner, so beams with different directions can be used according to each predetermined time (period).

[0183] exist Figure 9B In this system, since multiple beams are multiplexed in a frequency-division manner, beams with different directions can be used for each predetermined frequency band (or subcarrier or resource block (RB)).

[0184] exist Figure 9C In this system, because multiple beams are multiplexed in a spatially divided manner, multiple beams with different directions can be used in the same time or frequency domain.

[0185] Additionally, the SDM option can be applied only to a subset of channel access types, i.e., the type of channel access procedure (e.g., Types 2A, 2B, and 2C as specified in 3GPP TS 37.213). This type can also be interpreted as a channel access procedure performed during the period spanned by a time slot detected as idle before being determined by the DL transmission.

[0186] In addition, it can support one or more methods (schemes) in Directional-LBT that apply TDM, FDM or SDM.

[0187] In option 1, the following options can also be applied.

[0188] • (Option 1-1): Directional-LBT with TDM is supported when performing transmission using a single antenna panel (single panel) (i.e., gNB that does not support simultaneous transmission of multiple beams).

[0189] • (Options 1-2): When performing transmission using multiple antenna panels (multi-panel) in a gNB (i.e., a gNB that supports simultaneous transmission of multiple beams), Directional-LBT with at least one of TDM, FDM or SDM is supported.

[0190] Furthermore, when using FDM's Directional-LBT, the following actions can be taken.

[0191] • (Example 1): For example, Directional-LBT for beam direction A can be performed in a portion of LBT subbands and determine the transmission only in that subband.

[0192] Simultaneously, the LBT subband for beam direction B can also be executed in other LBT subbands, determining only the transmission within that subband. Specifically, Figure 9B The example on the left is equivalent to Case 1.

[0193] • (Example 2): For example, Directional-LBT for beam direction A can be performed in a portion of LBT subbands, and the result of estimating the LBT in that subband is the result of the LBT in a wider domain (in this case, some conditions, such as based on a higher CCA threshold than the LBT in that subband, etc.).

[0194] Simultaneously, the LBT subband for beam direction B can be executed in other LBT subbands, and the results of the LBT in this subband can be applied to transmission in a wider bandwidth domain. In this case, only the LBT_idle beam can be transmitted. Specifically, Figure 9B The examples of the center and right sides are equivalent to Case 2. That is, if Directional-LBT is successful for beam direction A, it can be assumed that beam direction B can also be used in COT.

[0195] Furthermore, when using SDM's Directional-LBT, LBT can be performed simultaneously in the directions corresponding to multiple beams in CCA.

[0196] A gNB that performs multi-panel transmission can use different panels to simultaneously transmit and receive different beams. Therefore, the gNB can apply different receive spatial parameters for different beam directions using different panels to monitor for interference.

[0197] In this case, as long as the isolation between beams / panels is good enough, the listening result at that moment is correct and does not contain interference from other beams / panels.

[0198] Furthermore, after CCA, the beam used for actual transmission can depend on the results of CCA. Specifically, it is also possible to set only the beam direction that CCA has been successful as the target.

[0199] (3.4.2) Action Example 2-2

[0200] In option 2, the LBT based on multiple beams (e.g., SSB / CSI-RS beams) can be represented (indicated) by a combination of Directional-LBTs using new parameters for CCA.

[0201] If the Directional-LBT is successful, all directions based on the multiple beams can be designated as transmission targets. Conversely, if the Directional-LBT fails, transmission in all directions based on the multiple beams may be denied.

[0202] In addition, the supported combinations can be predefined by 3GPP specifications, or the appropriate combinations can be set (notified) to the UE 200 by signaling from higher layers (RRCN, etc.) or lower layers (DCI, etc.).

[0203] Examples of this combination include the following.

[0204] • (Combination Example 1): Set (instructed) by 3GPP specifications or RRC / MAC CE (Control Element) / DCI.

[0205] ·Combined directional LBT conf.1: (normal LBT parameters includingCCA threshold)、CSI-RS#1、#2、#3、#4

[0206] ·Combined directional LBT conf.2: (normal LBT parameters includingCCA threshold)、CSI-RS#5、#6、#7、#8

[0207] ·Combined directional LBT conf.3: (normal LBT parameters includingCCA threshold)、CSI-RS#1、#2

[0208] ·Combined directional LBT conf.4: (normal LBT parameters includingCCA threshold), CSI-RS#3, #4, etc.

[0209] • (Combination Example 2): Set (instructed) by 3GPP specifications or RRC / MAC CE / DCI.

[0210] ·Combined directional LBT conf.1: (normal LBT parameters includingCCA threshold)、SSB#0~#7

[0211] ·Combined directional LBT conf.2: (normal LBT parameters includingCCA threshold)、SSB#8~#15,…

[0212] ·Combined directional LBT conf.8: (normal LBT parameters includingCCA threshold)、SSB#56~#63

[0213] Example 1 illustrates an example based on multiple CSI-RS beams. The number of CSI-RS (indexes) included in this combination is not particularly limited.

[0214] Example 2 illustrates an example based on multiple SSB beams. The number of SSBs (indexes) included in this combination is not particularly limited. In the example above, 64 SSBs (SSB indexes #0 to #63) are divided into 8 combinations.

[0215] Figure 10A and Figure 10B This illustrates a structural example of the Directional-LBT in Action Example 2-2. Specifically, Figure 10A An example of a directional LBT structure based on CSI-RS beamforming is shown (Combined directional LBT conf.3). Furthermore, Figure 10B An example of a Directional-LBT structure based on SSB beams is shown (Combined directional LBTconf.1).

[0216] In the case of such Directional-LBT, the beam used for the SSB / CSI-RS / PDCCH / PDSCH transmitted after LBT_idle is preferably the same as at least any one of the beams in the combination, or has QCL-type D (SpatialRx parameter).

[0217] Furthermore, in Option 2, the changes can also be made as follows. Specifically, a new reference signal (RS) and / or beam representing the beam direction used in the DL's Directional-LBT can be defined. The index of the RS and / or beam used in the DL's Directional-LBT can be predefined or set to correspond to one or more beam directions (specifically SSB / CSI-RS) used in the DL's transmission.

[0218] If the Directional-LBT is successful, the direction corresponding to the beam (i) can be set as the transmission target. For example, a new DL_LBT_RS / beam can be defined, and RRC can be set up with the following association.

[0219] ·DL_LBT_RS / beam 1: Corresponds to SSB#0~#7

[0220] ·DL_LBT_RS / beam 2: Corresponds to SSB#8~#15

[0221] ·……

[0222] ·DL_LBT_RS / beam 8: corresponds to SSB#56~#63

[0223] Figure 11 The structure example of the RS / beam used for Directional-LBT is shown in Operation Example 2-2 (a modified example of Option 2).

[0224] Specifically, Figure 11 This shows an example of DL_LBT_RS / beam 1 (DL_LBT_RS / beam 1). For example... Figure 11 As shown, DL_LBT_RS / beam 1 contains SSB#0 to 7. DL_LBT_RS / beam 1 used for beam-based LBT / CCA is omnidirectional and is represented by a circle. On the other hand, SSB#0 to 7 are used for transmission in the corresponding beam and can be directional, represented by an ellipse.

[0225] (3.5) Example 3 of the action

[0226] In this example, when Directional-LBT is initiated or configured via signaling from a higher layer (e.g., RRC), in order to support COT sharing of multiple beams from DL to UL, information on the beams for which LBT has been successfully initiated can be indicated to a group of multiple UE 200s. Specifically, the index of SSB / CSI-RS can be indicated.

[0227] This instruction can be implemented through an extension of DCI format 2_0 or a new DCI format. The DCI format can contain at least any of the following information (which can be applied to Action Example 2-1 and Action Example 2-2).

[0228] • SSB / CSI-RS Index

[0229] • An index of a set of multiple beams defined by RRC (e.g., an index of a combination of Directional-LBTs using new parameters).

[0230] • Index of multiple beam sets initiated by RRC and MAC CE

[0231] Furthermore, in the case of DL transmission within COT, UE 200 may simply assume (expect) that there is an RS and / or channel (e.g., SSB / CSI-RS / PDCCH / PDSCH) with the same QCL-type D as the SSB or CSI-RS index indicated by DCI.

[0232] Furthermore, in the case of UL transmission within COT (UE transmission), UE 200 may assume (expect) only that the RS and / or channel (SRS / PUCCH / PUSCH) of the UL have the same spatial relation as the indicated SSB, and the spatial relation of the SRS associated with the RS and / or channel may be associated with the index of the specified SSB or CSI-RS within DCI.

[0233] Alternatively, regarding UL transmissions (UE transmissions) during the COT sharing period, UE 200 may switch the corresponding UL transmission from a type 1 channel access procedure to a type 2A channel access procedure only for UL transmissions that have the same spatial relationship as the index of the SSB or CSI-RS indicated by the DCI, or whose spatial relationship of the SRS associated with the RS and / or the channel is associated with the index of the SSB or CSI-RS indicated by the DCI, at the determined position in the frequency and time domains within the remaining channel occupancy.

[0234] Figure 12A and Figure 12B This illustrates a structural example of the Directional-LBT in Action Example 3. Specifically, Figure 12A An example of COT sharing based on action example 2-1 is shown. Figure 12A The example shown is where DCI indicates CSI-RS#1, 2, and 4 as COT (CSI-RS#3 is excluded by being busy).

[0235] Figure 12B An example of COT sharing based on action example 2-2 is shown. Figure 12B The example shown is an example of how DCI indicates Combineddirectional LBT conf.1 (with CSI-RS#1, #2, #3, and #4 as objects) as COT.

[0236] (4) Function / Effect

[0237] According to the above-described implementation, the following effects can be obtained. Specifically, gNB 100A (and gNB 100B, hereinafter the same) can perform a channel access procedure in a frequency band (unlicensed frequency band Fu) that is different from the frequency band (first frequency band) allocated to the wireless communication system 10 (for mobile communication). Furthermore, gNB 100A can set the parameters of each beam BM applied to this channel access procedure.

[0238] Therefore, to support high-frequency bands such as FR2x, even when using multiple beams (BMs), the gNB 100A and UE200 can have common identification regarding the beams (directivity) applied to the Directional LBT / CCA in the DL. Furthermore, by setting the parameters for each beam (BM) in this way, it is also possible to help suppress the increase in overhead related to the LBT.

[0239] Therefore, even when using multiple beams (BM) with different directions, DL's Directional LBT / CCA can be performed efficiently and reliably.

[0240] In this embodiment, the gNB 100A can use SDM, FDM, or TDM to perform channel access procedures that simultaneously use multiple beams (BMs). Therefore, it can perform efficient DL Directional LBT / CCA.

[0241] In this embodiment, the gNB 100A, within the COT, can simultaneously execute multiple channel access procedures using multiple beams (BM). Therefore, it can perform more efficient Directional LBT / CCA for DL ​​(Directional Linking and Controlling Array).

[0242] In this embodiment, gNB 100A can send beam information of the beam BM indicating that the channel access procedure has been successful to UE 200 as a COT (Content on Targeting). Therefore, UE 200 can easily identify the appropriate beam BM.

[0243] In this embodiment, during the COT following the channel access procedure performed by gNB 100A, UE 200 can assume a signal or channel with the same QCL as the SSB or reference signal (CSI-RS) indicated by DCI. This allows for easy implementation of appropriate communication (e.g., DL transmission) taking into account the directivity of the beam BM.

[0244] In this embodiment, during the Channel Access Procedure (COT) performed by the gNB 100A, the UE 200 can assume a signal or channel associated with the SSB or reference signal (CSI-RS) indicated by the DCI. This allows for easy implementation of appropriate communication (e.g., UL transmission) taking into account the directivity of the beam BM.

[0245] (5) Other implementation methods

[0246] The above describes the implementation methods, but the present invention is not limited to the description of these implementation methods. It is obvious to those skilled in the art that various modifications and improvements can be made.

[0247] For example, in the above embodiments, examples of associating SSB and CSI-RS with the beam BM have been described; however, the reference signal is not necessarily limited to CSI-RS. Any other signal can be used as long as it can determine the association with the direction (directivity) of the beam BM.

[0248] In addition, unlicensed frequency bands can also be referred to by different names. For example, terms such as license-exempt or licensed-assisted access (LAA) can be used.

[0249] The block structure diagram used in the description of the above embodiments ( Figure 4 The diagram illustrates blocks organized by function. These functional blocks (structural units) are implemented through any combination of at least one of hardware and software. Furthermore, there are no particular limitations on the implementation method of each functional block. That is, each functional block can be implemented using a single device that is physically or logically combined, or by directly or indirectly (e.g., using wired, wireless, etc.) connecting two or more physically or logically separate devices. Functional blocks can also be implemented by combining software with one or more of the aforementioned devices.

[0250] Functionally, it includes functions such as judgment, decision, determination, calculation, calculation, processing, derivation, investigation, search, confirmation, receiving, sending, output, access, resolution, selection, selection, establishment, comparison, assumption, expectation, regard as, broadcasting, notifying, communicating, forwarding, configuring, reconfiguring, allocating, mapping, and assigning, but is not limited to these. For example, the functional block (structural part) that enables transmission is called the transmitting unit or transmitter. In short, as mentioned above, there are no particular limitations on the implementation method.

[0251] Furthermore, the aforementioned gNB 100A, gNB 100B, and UE 200 (the device) can also function as a computer for processing the wireless communication method disclosed herein. Figure 13 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the hardware structure of the device. (As shown...) Figure 13 As shown, the device can also be configured as a computer device including a processor 1001, a memory 1002, a storage 1003, a communication device 1004, an input device 1005, an output device 1006, and a bus 1007.

[0252] Additionally, in the following description, the term "device" can be replaced with "circuit," "device," "unit," etc. The hardware structure of this device can be configured as either a device comprising one or more of the illustrated components, or a device without any components.

[0253] The functional blocks of the device (refer to) Figure 4 This can be achieved through any hardware element or combination of hardware elements in the computer device.

[0254] Furthermore, the functions of the device are implemented by reading predetermined software (programs) into hardware such as processor 1001 and memory 1002, thereby enabling processor 1001 to perform calculations and control communication of communication device 1004 or control at least one of reading and writing data in memory 1002 and storage 1003.

[0255] The processor 1001 controls the computer as a whole, for example, by enabling the operating system to function. The processor 1001 may also be a central processing unit (CPU) that includes interfaces with peripheral devices, control devices, arithmetic units, registers, etc.

[0256] Furthermore, the processor 1001 reads programs (program code), software modules, data, etc., from at least one direction of the memory 1002 in the memory 1003 and the communication device 1004, and performs various processes accordingly. The program is used to cause the computer to perform at least a portion of the actions described in the above embodiments. Regarding the various processes described above, although it has been stated that they are executed by one processor 1001, they can also be executed simultaneously or sequentially by two or more processors 1001. The processor 1001 can also be installed using more than one chip. Additionally, the program can be transmitted from a network via a telecommunications line.

[0257] Memory 1002 is a computer-readable recording medium, and may be composed of at least one of the following: Read Only Memory (ROM), Erasable Programmable Memory (EPROM), Electrically Erasable Programmable Memory (EEPROM), Random Access Memory (RAM). Memory 1002 may also be referred to as a register, cache, main memory (main storage device), etc. Memory 1002 can store programs (program code), software modules, etc., capable of executing the methods involved in one embodiment of this disclosure.

[0258] The memory 1003 is a computer-readable recording medium, such as at least one of optical discs like CD-ROM (Compact Disc ROM), hard disk drives, floppy disks, magneto-optical discs (e.g., compact discs, digital multipurpose discs, Blu-ray discs, smart cards, flash memory (e.g., cards, sticks, key drives), floppy disks, magnetic stripes, etc. The memory 1003 may also be referred to as an auxiliary storage device. The aforementioned recording medium may, for example, be a database, server, or other suitable media that includes at least one of the memory 1002 and the storage 1003.

[0259] The communication device 1004 is hardware (transceiver) used for communication between computers via at least one of a wired network and a wireless network, and is also known as a network device, network controller, network card, communication module, etc.

[0260] The communication device 1004 may be configured to include a high-frequency switch, a duplexer, a filter, a frequency synthesizer, etc., in order to realize at least one of frequency division duplex (FDD) and time division duplex (TDD).

[0261] Input device 1005 is an input device that accepts input from external sources (e.g., keyboard, mouse, microphone, switch, button, sensor, etc.). Output device 1006 is an output device that performs output to external sources (e.g., display, speaker, LED, etc.). Alternatively, input device 1005 and output device 1006 can also be integrated (e.g., a touch panel).

[0262] Furthermore, devices such as processor 1001 and memory 1002 are connected via bus 1007 for communicating information. Bus 1007 can be configured using a single bus or different buses for each device.

[0263] Furthermore, the device can be configured to include hardware such as a microprocessor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a programmable logic device (PLD), or a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), and can also implement some or all of the functional blocks through this hardware. For example, the processor 1001 can also be installed using at least one of these hardware components.

[0264] Furthermore, the notification of information is not limited to the forms / implementations described in this disclosure, and other methods may also be used. For example, the notification of information may be implemented through physical layer signaling (e.g., Downlink Control Information (DCI), Uplink Control Information (UCI), higher layer signaling (e.g., RRC signaling, Medium Access Control (MAC) signaling, broadcast information (Master Information Block (MIB), System Information Block (SIB))), other signals, or combinations thereof. In addition, RRC signaling may also be referred to as an RRC message, such as an RRC Connection Setup message, an RRC Connection Reconfiguration message, etc.

[0265] The various forms / implementations described in this disclosure can also be applied to at least one of Long Term Evolution (LTE), LTE-Advanced (LTE-A), Super 3G, IMT-Advanced, 4th generation mobile communication system (4G), 5th generation mobile communication system (5G), Future Radio Access (FRA), New Radio (NR), W-CDMA (registered trademark), GSM (registered trademark), CDMA 2000, Ultra Mobile Broadband (UMB), IEEE 802.11 (Wi-Fi (registered trademark)), IEEE 802.16 (WiMAX (registered trademark)), IEEE 802.20, Ultra-Wideband (UWB), Bluetooth (registered trademark), systems using other suitable systems, and next-generation systems extended therefrom. Furthermore, multiple systems can be combined (e.g., a combination of at least one of LTE and LTE-A with 5G, etc.) for application.

[0266] The processing procedures, timing, and flow of the various forms / implementations described in this disclosure may be changed in order, provided there is no contradiction. For example, the elements of various steps are indicated using an illustrative order in the methods described in this disclosure, but are not limited to the specific order indicated.

[0267] In this disclosure, specific actions performed by the base station are sometimes also performed through its upper node, depending on the circumstances. In a network consisting of one or more network nodes having a base station, it is obvious that various actions for communicating with a terminal can be performed by at least one of the base station and other network nodes besides the base station (e.g., considering an MME or S-GW, but not limited to these). The above example illustrates a case where there is only one other network node besides the base station, but other network nodes can also be a combination of multiple other network nodes (e.g., an MME and an S-GW).

[0268] Information and signals (such as data) can be output from higher (or lower) layers to lower (or higher) layers. They can also be input or output through multiple network nodes.

[0269] Input or output information can be stored in a specific location (e.g., memory) or managed using a management table. Input or output information can be overwritten, updated, or appended. Output information can also be deleted. Input information can also be sent to other devices.

[0270] The determination can be made by the value represented by 1 bit (0 or 1), by a Boolean value (Boolean: true or false), or by comparing numerical values ​​(e.g., comparing with a predetermined value).

[0271] The various forms / implementations described in this disclosure can be used individually or in combination, and can be switched depending on the execution. Furthermore, the notification of predetermined information is not limited to explicit notification (e.g., a "Yes X" notification) but can also be implicit notification (e.g., not notifying the predetermined information).

[0272] Software, whether referred to as software, firmware, middleware, microcode, hardware description language, or by other names, should be broadly interpreted as commands, command sets, code, code segments, program code, programs, subroutines, software modules, applications, software applications, software packages, routines, subroutines, objects, executable files, execution threads, procedures, functions, etc.

[0273] Furthermore, software, commands, and information can be sent and received via a transmission medium. For example, when software is sent from a website, server, or other remote source using at least one of wired technologies (coaxial cable, fiber optic cable, twisted pair, Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) etc.) and wireless technologies (infrared, microwave, etc.), at least one of these wired and wireless technologies is included within the definition of a transmission medium.

[0274] The information, signals, etc., described in this disclosure can also be represented using any of a variety of different technologies. For example, the data, commands, instructions, information, signals, bits, symbols, chips, etc., that may be involved in the above description can be represented by voltage, current, electromagnetic waves, magnetic fields or magnetic particles, light fields or photons, or any combination of these.

[0275] Furthermore, the terms used in this disclosure and those necessary for understanding this disclosure may be replaced with terms that have the same or similar meanings. For example, at least one of the channel and symbol may also be a signal (signaling). Additionally, a signal may also be a message. Furthermore, a component carrier (CC) may be referred to as a carrier frequency, cell, frequency carrier, etc.

[0276] The terms “system” and “network” as used in this disclosure are used interchangeably.

[0277] Furthermore, the information, parameters, etc., described in this disclosure may be represented using absolute values, relative values ​​to predetermined values, or other corresponding information. For example, wireless resources may also be indicated by indexes.

[0278] The names used for the above parameters are not limiting in any way. Furthermore, the formulas, etc., using these parameters sometimes differ from those explicitly disclosed in this disclosure. Various channels (e.g., PUCCH, PDCCH, etc.) and information elements can be identified by appropriate names, and therefore the various names assigned to these various channels and information elements are not limiting in any way.

[0279] In this disclosure, the terms "Base Station (BS)," "wireless base station," "fixed station," "NodeB," "eNodeB (eNB)," "gNodeB (gNB)," "access point," "transmission point," "reception point," "transmission / reception point," "cell," "sector," "cell group," "carrier," and "component carrier" are used interchangeably. Sometimes, terms such as macro cell, small cell, femtocell, and picocell are also used to refer to base stations.

[0280] A base station can accommodate one or more (e.g., three) cells (also known as sectors). When a base station accommodates multiple cells, the overall coverage area of ​​the base station can be divided into multiple smaller areas, and each smaller area can also provide communication services through a base station subsystem (e.g., a small indoor base station (Remote Radio Head: RRH)).

[0281] Terms such as “cell” or “sector” refer to a portion or the entire coverage area of ​​at least one of the base stations and base station subsystems that provide communication services within that coverage area.

[0282] In this disclosure, the terms "Mobile Station (MS)," "user terminal," "User Equipment (UE)," and "terminal" are used interchangeably.

[0283] For mobile stations, those skilled in the art sometimes also use the following terms: subscriber station, mobile unit, subscriber unit, wireless unit, remote unit, mobile device, wireless device, wireless communication device, remote device, mobile subscriber station, access terminal, mobile terminal, wireless terminal, remote terminal, handheld device, user agent, mobile client, client, or some other appropriate terms.

[0284] At least one of the base station and mobile station can also be referred to as a transmitting device, receiving device, communication device, etc. Furthermore, at least one of the base station and mobile station can be a device mounted on a mobile body, the mobile body itself, etc. The mobile body can be a vehicle (e.g., a car, an airplane, etc.), a mobile body moving in an unmanned manner (e.g., a drone, an autonomous vehicle, etc.), or a robot (humanized or unmanned). Additionally, at least one of the base station and mobile station also includes devices that do not necessarily move during communication operations. For example, at least one of the base station and mobile station can be an IoT (Internet of Things) device such as a sensor.

[0285] Furthermore, the base station in this disclosure can also be replaced by a mobile station (user terminal, hereinafter the same). For example, various forms / implementations of this disclosure can also be applied to a structure that replaces communication between the base station and the mobile station with communication between multiple mobile stations (e.g., also referred to as D2D (Device-to-Device), V2X (Vehicle-to-Everything), etc.). In this case, it can also be configured such that the mobile station has the functions of the base station. In addition, terms such as "uplink" and "downlink" can also be replaced with terms corresponding to communication between terminals (e.g., "side"). For example, uplink channel, downlink channel, etc. can also be replaced with side channel.

[0286] Similarly, the mobile station in this disclosure can be replaced by a base station. In this case, the base station can also be configured to have the functions of a mobile station.

[0287] A radio frame can consist of one or more frames in the time domain. Each frame in the time domain can be called a subframe. A subframe can further consist of one or more time slots in the time domain. A subframe can also be a fixed time length (e.g., 1 ms) independent of the parameter set (numerology).

[0288] A parameter set can be communication parameters applied to at least one side of the transmission and reception of a signal or channel. For example, a parameter set can represent at least one of the following: Subcarrier Spacing (SCS), bandwidth, symbol length, cyclic prefix length, Transmission Time Interval (TTI), number of symbols per TTI, radio frame structure, specific filtering processing performed by the transceiver in the frequency domain, and specific windowing processing performed by the transceiver in the time domain.

[0289] In the time domain, a time slot can be composed of one or more symbols (Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM) symbols, SC-FDMA (Single Carrier Frequency Division Multiple Access) symbols, etc.). A time slot can be a time unit based on a set of parameters.

[0290] A time slot can contain multiple mini-time slots. Each mini-time slot can consist of one or more symbols in the time domain. Furthermore, a mini-time slot can also be called a sub-time slot. A mini-time slot can consist of fewer symbols than a time slot. PDSCH (or PUSCH) transmitted in time units larger than mini-time slots can be called PDSCH (or PUSCH) mapping type (type) A. PDSCH (or PUSCH) transmitted using mini-time slots can be called PDSCH (or PUSCH) mapping type (type) B.

[0291] Radio frames, subframes, time slots, mini-time slots, and symbols all represent time units for transmitting signals. Radio frames, subframes, time slots, mini-time slots, and symbols can each be referred to by other corresponding names.

[0292] For example, a single subframe can also be called a Transmission Time Interval (TTI), multiple consecutive subframes can also be called a TTI, and a single time slot or a single mini-time slot can also be called a TTI. That is, at least one of a subframe and a TTI can be a subframe (1 ms) in existing LTE, a period shorter than 1 ms (e.g., symbols 1-13), or a period longer than 1 ms. Furthermore, the unit representing TTI may not be called a subframe, but rather a time slot, mini-time slot, etc.

[0293] Here, TTI refers, for example, to the smallest unit of time for scheduling in wireless communication. For instance, in an LTE system, the base station schedules the allocation of radio resources (bandwidth, transmit power, etc., available to each user terminal) in units of TTI. However, the definition of TTI is not limited to this.

[0294] The Time Interval (TTI) can be the transmission time unit for channel-coded data packets (transmission blocks), code blocks, codewords, etc., or it can be a processing unit for scheduling, link adaptation, etc. Furthermore, when a TTI is given, the actual time interval (e.g., the number of symbols) in which the transmission block, code block, codeword, etc., are mapped can be shorter than that TTI.

[0295] Furthermore, when one time slot or one mini-time slot is referred to as a TTI, more than one TTI (i.e., more than one time slot or more than one mini-time slot) can constitute the minimum time unit for scheduling. Moreover, the number of time slots constituting this minimum time unit for scheduling (the number of mini-time slots) can be controlled.

[0296] A TTI with a duration of 1ms can also be referred to as a normal TTI (TTI in LTE Rel.8-12), a long TTI, a normal subframe, a normal subframe, a long subframe, a time slot, etc. A TTI shorter than a normal TTI can be referred to as a shortened TTI, a short TTI, a partial or fractional TTI, a shortened subframe, a short subframe, a mini time slot, a sub-time slot, a time slot, etc.

[0297] Additionally, for long TTIs (e.g., regular TTIs, subframes, etc.), they can be replaced with TTIs with a duration of more than 1ms. For short TTIs (e.g., shortened TTIs, etc.), they can be replaced with TTIs with a duration of less than long TTIs and a duration of more than 1ms.

[0298] A resource block (RB) is a unit of resource allocation in both the time and frequency domains. In the frequency domain, it can contain one or more consecutive subcarriers. The number of subcarriers contained in an RB can be the same regardless of the parameter set; for example, it can be 12. The number of subcarriers contained in an RB can also be determined based on the parameter set.

[0299] Furthermore, the temporal domain of an RB can contain one or more symbols, and can be 1 time slot, 1 mini-time slot, 1 subframe, or 1 TTI in length. 1 TTI, 1 subframe, etc., can each be composed of one or more resource blocks.

[0300] In addition, one or more RBs can be referred to as Physical Resource Block (PRB), Sub-Carrier Group (SCG), Resource Element Group (REG), PRB pair, RB pair, etc.

[0301] Furthermore, a resource block can consist of one or more resource elements (REs). For example, 1 RE can be a radio resource area consisting of 1 subcarrier and 1 symbol.

[0302] The Bandwidth Part (BWP) (also known as partial bandwidth, etc.) can represent a contiguous subset of common resource blocks (RBs) used for a certain parameter set in a given carrier. Here, common resource blocks can be determined by indexing RBs based on a common reference point of that carrier. PRBs can be defined and numbered within a BWP.

[0303] A BWP can include a UL BWP and a DL BWP. One or more BWPs can be set for a UE within one carrier.

[0304] At least one of the configured BWPs can be active, and it is not assumed that the UE will transmit or receive predetermined signals / channels outside of an active BWP. Furthermore, the terms "cell," "carrier," etc., used in this disclosure can be replaced with "BWP."

[0305] The structures of radio frames, subframes, time slots, mini-time slots, and symbols described above are merely illustrative. For example, the number of subframes contained in a radio frame, the number of time slots in each subframe or radio frame, the number of mini-time slots contained in a time slot, the number of symbols and RBs contained in a time slot or mini-time slot, the number of subcarriers contained in an RB, the number of symbols in a TTI, the symbol length, the cyclic prefix (CP) length, etc., can be varied in many ways.

[0306] The terms “connected,” “coupled,” or any variations thereof are intended to indicate any direct or indirect connection or combination between two or more elements, including cases where there is one or more intermediate elements between the two elements that are “connected” or “coupled.” The combination or connection between elements can be physical, logical, or a combination of these. For example, “access” can be used instead of “connected.” In the context of this disclosure, it can be understood that two elements are “connected” or “coupled” to each other using at least one of one or more wires, cables, and printed electrical connections, and, as some non-limiting and non-inclusive examples, using electromagnetic energy with wavelengths in the wireless frequency domain, microwave region, and light (both visible and invisible) region to “connect” or “couple” to each other.

[0307] The reference signal can be simply called the Reference Signal (RS), or, depending on the standard applied, the pilot signal.

[0308] As used in this disclosure, the word "based on" does not mean "based on only" unless otherwise expressly stated. In other words, the word "based on" means both "based on only" and "based on at least" both.

[0309] Alternatively, the "unit" in the structure of the above devices can be replaced with "section", "circuit", "equipment", etc.

[0310] Any reference to elements using the designations "first," "second," etc., as used in this disclosure does not necessarily limit the number or order of these elements. These designations may be used in this disclosure as a convenient way to distinguish between two or more elements. Therefore, references to the first element and the second element do not imply that only two elements can be taken or that in any form the first element must precede the second element.

[0311] When the terms "include," "including," and their variations are used in this disclosure, these terms, like the term "comprising," imply inclusion. Furthermore, the term "or" as used in this disclosure implies non-exclusivity.

[0312] In this disclosure, for example, in cases where articles are added through translation, such as in English (e.g., a, an, and the), this disclosure may also include cases where the noun following these articles is in a plural form.

[0313] The terms "determining" and "determining" as used in this disclosure sometimes encompass a variety of actions. For example, "determining" and "determining" can include actions such as judging, calculating, computing, processing, deriving, investigating, searching (e.g., searching in a table, database, or other data structure), and ascertaining, which are considered as actions of "determining" and "determining." Furthermore, "determining" and "determining" can include actions such as receiving (e.g., receiving information), transmitting (e.g., sending information), inputting, outputting, and accessing (e.g., accessing data in memory), which are considered as actions of "determining" and "determining." Additionally, "determining" and "determining" can include actions such as resolving, selecting, choosing, establishing, and comparing, which are considered as actions of "determining" and "determining." That is, "judgment" and "decision" can include matters that are considered to have been "judged" or "decided" to take any action. In addition, "judgment (decision)" can also be replaced by "assuming", "expecting", "considering", etc.

[0314] In this disclosure, the phrase "A is different from B" can also mean "A and B are not the same." Furthermore, this phrase can also mean "A and B are each different from C." Terms such as "separate" and "combined" can also be interpreted in the same way as "different."

[0315] The present disclosure has been described in detail above, but it will be clear to those skilled in the art that the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described herein. The present disclosure can be implemented as modifications and variations without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as defined by the claims. Therefore, the present disclosure is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to be limiting.

[0316] Label Explanation

[0317] 10: Wireless communication system;

[0318] 20: NG-RAN;

[0319] 100A, 100B: gNB;

[0320] 200: UE;

[0321] 210: Wireless signal transceiver unit;

[0322] 220: Enlarged section;

[0323] 230: Modulation and demodulation unit;

[0324] 240: Control signal and reference signal processing unit;

[0325] 250: Encoder / decoder unit;

[0326] 260: Data Transceiver Department;

[0327] 270: Control Unit;

[0328] 1001: Processor;

[0329] 1002: Memory;

[0330] 1003: Memory;

[0331] 1004: Communication device;

[0332] 1005: Input device;

[0333] 1006: Output device;

[0334] 1007: Bus.

Claims

1. A wireless base station, wherein, The base station has: The transmitting unit, via the channel, performs time-division multiplexing of multiple deep transmissions using different beams; and The control unit performs a channel access procedure that simultaneously monitors the directions of multiple beams in the shared spectrum before the multiple DL transmissions. During the channel access process, the directions of the multiple beams monitored simultaneously are associated with the directions of the beams transmitted by the DL.

2. The wireless base station according to claim 1, wherein, The control unit executes the channel access process in a frequency band higher than the frequency range 1, i.e., FR1.

3. A communication method in a wireless base station, wherein, The communication method includes the following steps: Multiple deep learning (DL) transmissions are performed via time-division multiplexing through different beams via a channel; and In the shared spectrum, a channel access procedure is performed that simultaneously monitors the directions of multiple beams before the multiple DL transmissions. During the channel access process, the directions of the multiple beams monitored simultaneously are associated with the directions of the beams transmitted by the DL.

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